Youth Ward Volunteer

Are you thinking about a future career in healthcare? Want to build confidence, meet new people, and get real experience in a clinical environment?

Our Youth Ward Volunteer programme is an opportunity designed especially for 16–25‑year‑olds who want to try out what it’s like to support patients and work alongside healthcare professionals.

Please note: a standard DBS check is required for all Youth Ward Volunteers.

When does it run and how do I apply?

We offer 10 places on each programme.

You’ll need to complete an application form by the end of Monday 4 May.

If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to attend a ward visit and interview during the week commencing 11 May.

Before you begin volunteering, there will be an online induction and training evening via Teams on Monday 18 May, 6pm - 7pm.

You’ll be expected to commit to a regular weekly evening shift. Shifts take place Monday to Friday, 5pm–8pm, starting from the week commencing 1 June and running through to the week commencing 8 July.

The initial pilot programme will last 6 weeks, with the possibility of continuing your volunteering during the summer holidays.

The programme ends with a celebratory careers evening and certificate presentation, recognising your commitment, learning, and personal development. 

Once you’ve successfully finished the programme, you could get the chance to spend a day shadowing a staff member in an area you’re interested in.

What will I be doing?

As a Youth Ward Volunteer, you'll be helping our ward team by:

• Spending time with patients (e.g., chatting, reading, offering company)
• Keeping the ward welcoming and tidy
• Helping with drinks rounds for patients and visitors
• Refreshing water jugs, cleaning tables and offering hand wipes before meals
• Restocking supplies in the ward and refreshment areas
• Keeping the refreshments area and IPU kitchen clean, including loading the dishwasher

What experience will I gain?

You’ll become a valued member of our In-Patient Unit team building important skills that will support your future education or career:

• Communication skills through spending time with patients, families, and staff
• Collaboration and teamwork by working alongside the ward team and other volunteers
• Problem‑solving skills by responding positively to day‑to‑day challenges in a real-life clinical setting
• Dependability by committing to regular shifts and being a reliable part of the ward
• Resilience by building confidence and adapting to a busy and sometimes emotionally challenging environment
• An innovative and curious mindset, learning about healthcare and asking questions along the way
• Self‑awareness and adaptability, reflecting on your experiences and adjusting to different situations and people

What isn’t included in the role?

You won’t be asked to carry out:

• Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
• Clinical tasks (feeding, moving/handling, taking observations)
• Handling or giving medications

Dress Code

You’ll need to wear:

• A St Leonard’s Hospice polo shirt and apron (we will provide these)
• Dark trousers (no jeans)
• Flat, comfortable shoes (no open‑toed shoes or heels)

For infection control:

• Change into your volunteer uniform on‑site
• Be “bare below the elbow” (no watches, bracelets, rings except a plain band)
• Short nails, no polish, no false nails
• Tie long hair back
• Remove earrings before your shift for safety

What skills do I need?

We're looking for people who are:

• Interested in a career in healthcare
• Friendly, kind, and respectful
• Able to follow hygiene and infection‑control procedures
• Reliable and able to work independently once trained
• Good communicators who aren’t afraid to ask for help
• Motivated to support patients, visitors, and staff
• (Optional) Experience in customer service, hospitality, or care — but it isn’t essential
• Aware of the importance of confidentiality

Support & Training

You won’t be doing this alone!

• Ward Volunteer Champions will be your main day‑to‑day contact.
• The Volunteer Services Team will guide you through the application and induction process.
• You’ll receive training before you start as well as the opportunity to give feedback throughout the programme.

Who are we?

St Leonard’s Hospice provides compassionate care for people living with life‑limiting illnesses and supports their families. Our volunteers are a huge part of what we do — people of all ages and backgrounds who make an incredible difference every day.

If you have any questions, contact our Volunteer Services Team:
01904 777765
volunteers@stleonardshospice.org.uk