NNUH - Our vision Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals
Print this page

Become a Volunteer

Volunteering with us is a chance to make a real difference to the lives of patients, visitors and staff across the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital and our community.

Our volunteer roles are carefully designed to support the wellbeing, comfort and experience of those using our services, while also giving volunteers the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and become part of a friendly and supportive community.

We are always delighted to welcome new volunteers to our team, so we encourage you to explore our wide range of opportunities across the Trust and find a role that suits your interests, experience and availability.

Applying online is quick and easy — simply register your interest here to begin your volunteering journey with us.

Our Mission Statement: “Giving time freely and without expectation, to enhance the care and holistic wellbeing of NNUH patients and staff.”

The Five Steps to Becoming an NNUH Volunteer:

1) Complete an application form

The first step is to complete our online or paper application form.

This helps us to learn more about your interests, skills and experience so we can consider you application for suitable volunteering opportunities.

Please complete the application form as fully as possible.

2) Come and meet us

If we feel there may be a suitable role for you, we will invite you to an informal meeting. This is an opportunity for you to:

  • Learn more about volunteering with us
  • Ask any questions you may have
  • Find out what to expect from the role
  • It also gives us the chance to get to know you a little better and discuss which opportunities may suit you best.

3) Complete the recruitment checks

To help keep our patients, staff and volunteers safe, all volunteers are required to complete a number of recruitment checks. Our team will guide you through the process, which includes:

  • Verification of identity documents
  • References
  • An online Occupational Health check
  • A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
  • Right to work in the UK check

These checks can take several weeks to complete, depending on documentation and referee responses.

4) Attend your induction training

All new volunteers attend an induction session before starting their role.

Usually delivered in a group setting, the induction programme prepares volunteers for the hospital environment and covers all mandatory Trust training required before placement begins. The session also helps volunteers to:

  • Understand the boundaries between staff and volunteer roles
  • Feel confident within the hospital environment
  • Meet other new volunteers
  • Learn about the support available to them

Some specialist roles may also require additional training, such as:

  • Wheelchair safety
  • Dementia awareness
  • Nutrition and feeding support
  • Therapeutic massage
  • End of life support
  • Driver assessments

5) Start your volunteering journey

Once your checks and training are complete, you’ll be ready to begin volunteering.

Don’t worry, you won’t be expected to manage on your own. One of our Volunteer Co-ordinators will support you as you settle into your role, introduce you to staff and fellow volunteers, and help you feel confident and comfortable within your placement area.

From your very first shift, you’ll become part of a welcoming team making a genuine difference every day.