NATIONAL Volunteer Week (11-17 May) was established in 1989 as a way of recognising and thanking the more than six million Australians who volunteer in the community.
Research says that those who volunteer are happier as a result of their work and efforts in helping others.
At St John of God Berwick Hospital the volunteer workforce is a vital part of the daily operations of the hospital.
The volunteer service commenced in 2008 and has grown to include many services. Volunteer roles provide support to caregivers in most areas of the hospital, including clerical support in the form of assembling packages of information for mail-outs, serving refreshments to patients attending the new Day Oncology Unit, providing a courier service between departments, and supporting caregivers in the clinical areas of the hospital.
Lisa Norman, CEO at St John of God Berwick Hospital said: “Our volunteers are energetic, passionate and caring. Many choose to volunteer at the hospital after being a patient here; or have had a loved one attend the hospital as a patient. It’s heart-warming that they wish to ‘give back’ to help others and, of course, we are immensely grateful that they do”.
Our volunteers come from varied backgrounds and all have different reasons behind their desire to donate their time and help others.
Debbie Bracker is a Berwick resident who has grown children and five grandchildren and regularly volunteers at the Day Oncology Centre, “I have volunteered at the hospital for around 18 months now. I’ve never regretted a minute. It feels so good to put a smile on someone’s face and help them feel better. It’s rewarding to give something back to the community.”
Gladys Rebelo, a mum of one young son also volunteers and explains: “I moved to Australia from the UK two years ago, and where I volunteered for some time.
“I feel so fortunate to have found St John of God, the staff are so appreciative and helpful. I really enjoy helping out and making people happy. I just love to see people smile.“
The hospital offers a dedicated volunteer training program, designed as a comprehensive support package to enhance existing and develop new skills. Jeanette Cronin, Co-ordinator of Volunteer Services said: “We have a fantastic group of people with a diverse range of skills and life experience who offer their time and services to the hospital.
“Their contribution greatly enhances the personal care we provide to our patients.”
Jeanette explains that the hospital’s volunteer program has increased its numbers significantly, including a number of students and young mums. The program has extended to people of all ages and a number of new roles have been created to facilitate the increase in volunteer numbers.
St John of God Berwick Hospital would like to thank all of the volunteers who contribute and donate their time to the hospital.
For further information on the volunteer program, please contact the Margaret Robb, Acting Co-ordinator of Volunteer Services on 9709 1414.
