What is your name?
My name is Cathy.
What volunteering do you do?
I gather patient feedback from individuals about their current experience on a ward.
Where do you volunteer?
I volunteer at Bassetlaw Hospital.
When did you start volunteering?
I started volunteering 2 years ago.
Why did you choose to volunteer?
I started volunteering to maintain an interest in health and social care following retirement.
Describe what you do in 100 words or less.
My main activity is capturing patient experience and this involves listening, participating in activities and more listening.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy meeting a variety of people hearing about their experiences and anything else they would like to chat about. It is also a privilege to witness the skill and dedication of staff.
What three words would you use to describe the NHS?
3 words go describe the NHS….. unique, inspiring and inclusive.
If you could give the NHS any 70th birthday present what would it be?
My present to the NHS would be the funding and space to design and implement the necessary changes to improve efficiency for the organisation and outcomes for patients.
What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust?
My advice to anyone thinking of volunteering would be just do it! I have found Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust to be a professional and friendly organisation who value the contribution made by volunteers.
Follow our countdown to the NHS’s 70th birthday as we post a blog a day.
https://www.england.nhs.uk/nhs70/