Layla’s Volunteering Story
Layla is an inspirational young volunteer who has been helping out for the last couple of years as part of the Young Volunteers Programme at Dorset County Hospital.
Guiding patients to their appointments around different departments of the hospital, and reassuring stressed and overwhelmed patients and visitors by giving them one less thing to worry about, was something Layla found really worthwhile when she first started volunteering. She went on to help out in the pharmacy with the medications, and when she turned 18 Layla began volunteering in the Learning Centre on Kingfisher, the children’s ward. It is here that her heart lies.
“A young person came in who was very overwhelmed and nervous. I helped calm them by playing with play-doh with them. Seeing how much happier and more relaxed they were gave me such a sense of pride in the difference I’d made.”
Layla says that one of the main reasons she continues to volunteer is because she genuinely enjoys what she does, and loves being part of the community of people who help out in the hospital. Previously, she hadn’t realised the extent to which the NHS relies on volunteers, but can now see how appreciative all the members of staff are for the help provided.
“I believe that if anyone is thinking of volunteering that they should just go for it. It has been one of the best decisions I have made and has helped me in so many ways, from the people I’ve met to the people I’ve helped.”
Did you know that if you’re 16-18, you can volunteer at DCH? Everything you do, no matter how big or small, will make a huge difference to the patients and staff in the hospital, and it’s a great addition to your CV or towards the DofE Award. Email the team on volunteering@dchft.nhs.uk or call 01305 255351.
