Patients at 2 of the Trust’s community hospitals are benefitting from a new Community Health volunteering programme.
Volunteer Cornwall recently completed a training programme. This will see volunteers visit patients at Camborne Redruth and Stratton community hospitals once a week.
Whilst on the ward, they will visit patients that have been identified by the ward team to speak with in a befriending-type role. As part of their role, the volunteers might also do light activities with the patient. This could include doing puzzles or walking to the hospital’s green space.
The goal of this new volunteer role is to engage with the patients ahead of their discharge from hospital. This could help with finding out what support patients might need at home. It could also find out what could be put in place ahead of them being discharged.
The volunteer would continue to visit the patient at home for around 4 to 6 weeks. During this time volunteers are able to check on the patient and support them where needed. This could include help with shopping, picking up medicines, and connecting with local groups and activities.
The project reflects the growing focus on neighbourhood health. It brings together NHS, community, and voluntary organisations. It also aligns with the NHS 10 Year Health Plan. This promotes stronger community-based support. It also helps people stay independent for longer.
Sue Greenwood is matron at Camborne Redruth Community Hospital.
She said:
“When we work in true partnership in providing care and support to the people in our care, real personalised care runs through everything centred around the individual. It’s very exciting to watch this programme develop.”
Nicola Wilks is matron at Stratton Community Hospital.
She said:
“This programme is a wonderful example of how working closely with our voluntary sector partners can make a real difference to patients’ lives.
“Leaving hospital can be a daunting time for many people. Having ongoing support from a familiar face can help build confidence and reduce isolation. It can also ensure people feel connected to their community.
“We’re delighted to be part of a project that supports patients beyond the hospital setting and helps them remain independent at home for longer.”
Andrew Phillips is Volunteering for Health programme officer for Volunteer Cornwall.
He said:
“This is fantastic news. We have volunteers trained up and inducted to start visiting and supporting people at the community hospitals. With us now being able to test the programme in all 3 of our core sites, we’re keen to gather even more learnings to further improve the process.”
The programme is also in place at Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.
