Posted on: 21 December 2023
We are thrilled to present an update on our transformative Volunteer to Career (VtC) programme, a cornerstone in our strategy to support talent within the Trust.
The VtC programme has seen remarkable success, with 43 dedicated volunteers supported this year. A testament to its efficacy, 22 of these volunteers have progressed into career within the NHS, including Band 5 and Band 7 positions. Moreover, 23 volunteers have been guided into further education and training, showcasing our commitment to developing skilled healthcare professionals.
Our two key volunteer roles are instrumental in enhancing patient care and community well-being, reflecting our Compassionate approach to healthcare. The 22 Care and Ward Support Volunteers have been pivotal in St Charles Hospital acute and PICU wards, providing invaluable assistance and companionship to patients. The Community Wellness Facilitator Volunteer will significantly contribute to the Home Treatment Team in St Charles, Gordon Hospital and Hathaway House bridging the gap between inpatient care and community support. Six volunteers will soon start in this role.
At the heart of the VtC programme is our individualised support system. Each volunteer benefits from comprehensive mentoring, CV and personal statement writing assistance, interview preparation, and confidence building sessions. This holistic approach not only supports their transition into NHS careers but also ensures they are well prepared and confident in their roles.
Our VtC programme was a finalist for not one, not two, but three Helpforce Champion Awards in 2023, celebrating our impact on volunteering in the health and care sector. This included recognitions for Nicola Jhumat as Outstanding Staff Champion of the Year, Rania Adams for Volunteer Lead of the Year, and the VtC programme in the Best Volunteer to Career Programme category.
One of our care support volunteers shared their heartfelt experience:
"This is absolutely brilliant!! I wasn't just expecting a touch-up on my CV - I never imagined a complete revamp. Your genuine care for us volunteers shines through in everything you do."
Another volunteer's journey was equally poignant:
"You've helped me immensely, Rania! It was the emotional support during the process that I valued as much as the preparation. Knowing there was something worthwhile on the other side helped me push through. Your encouragement and regular job updates were a beacon of hope, guiding me forward."
Nicola Jhumat, St Charles Assistant Director for KCW Urgent Care and Inpatients, reflects on the VtC programme's impact: "Hearing the volunteers’ stories is truly inspiring. They're not just gaining experience, they're enriching our wards with their caring, respectful presence. The positive impact on our patients is immeasurable, leading to enhanced satisfaction and a markedly better overall experience for everyone involved."
Each volunteer, each staff member, each story adds to the mosaic of CNWL's volunteer service mission. With every step our volunteers take towards their career goals, they're not just advancing professionally, they're amplifying the compassionate, skilled heart of our healthcare services. We’re calling all directors, enthusiasts, and dreamers - your voice can be the GPS guiding a volunteer to their destiny within CNWL NHS. Lend it generously.
Looking ahead
As we continue to evolve the VtC programme, our focus is in increasing and enhancing volunteer opportunities for our local communities, supporting CNWL in their efforts as an anchor institution. We remain to be committed to increasing our conversion rate to 60% , developing our volunteers into skilled professionals. Their journey from volunteers to valued members of our NHS workforce is not just a testament to their dedication but also to the supportive environment we strive to provide.
Your role in this journey
Your involvement can make a significant difference. Whether you're interested in volunteering, recruiting a volunteer, or simply spreading the word, every action contributes to the growth of our healthcare community.
Contact us, connect with Rania Adams at cnwl.vtc@nhs.net
