Volunteers wanted to ease the pressure at Walsall Manor A&E
Walsall Manor Hospital wants to recruit volunteers to help improve ‘patient experience’ within its under-pressure A&E department.
They would be there in a supportive role for patients, their families and carers, bosses have said.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust has stated they would focus on patients waiting for treatments or a move on to a ward.
Matron Denise Fraser said: "Our ED (emergency department) is a busy, hectic environment but all of us who work there absolutely love it. We enjoy the varied role, the wide range of patients and the hustle and bustle.
“Due to the extremely busy nature of the department and continually changing priorities, however, we accept that there are times when communication could be better. This is where we think volunteers could really step in and make a difference."
Debbie Hill, care group manager, added: "The volunteers will be able to help by sorting out food and drinks for patients, giving them books or magazines and acting as a link to ED staff.
“We have already introduced ED Champions into the department, who are members of staff with a particular interest in areas such as dementia, substance misuse and organ donation. We see volunteers as another important addition as we work towards our vision of Becoming your partners for first class integrated care here at the Trust.”
Prospective volunteers will be DBS checked and will be required to attend an induction session for health and safety training
The trust has said good candidates will be friendly, reliable, a good communicator and listener, have respect for confidentiality and privacy as well as appreciate people's ranging needs.
Last month the Express & Star revealed that the Manor does not expect hit its target to deal with 95 per cent of patients within four hours for the rest of the financial year - until April.
The Care Quality Commission declared the emergency department was one of the trust's biggest failings rating it Inadequate last year and placing the organisation in special measures.
The watchdog has recently reinspected the Manor this year and bosses are awaiting their latest findings.
