Volunteering at RUH brings ‘learning to life’ for budding Melksham nurse

A MELKSHAM health and social care student has shared the benefits of her time volunteering at the Bath Royal United Hospital. 

The Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath NHS Foundation Trust has partnered with Bath College to help health and social care students gain valuable experience through volunteering at the hospital. 

Student volunteers are not involved with any medical care but provide a valuable support service to patients and staff, which includes light cleaning, serving drinks to patients and providing a listening ear. 18-year old Rebecca Spreadbury, from Melksham, is one of a number of health and social care students that have benefited from the new partnership. 

“I’ve been able to take my experience in the hospital back into the classroom and apply it to my studies,” said Rebecca, who has been volunteering in the Oncology department. “It’s really brought my learning to life. 

“I’ve learnt how to speak to patients and how to interact with colleagues. It’s given me such a confidence boost ahead of starting my nurse training in September and I’d really recommend it to anyone thinking about starting on a career in healthcare.” 

There are more than 400 volunteers in total at the RUH in a variety of roles across the hospital, not just on the wards. These include volunteers for the Friends of the RUH shop and café as well as in spiritual care, welcoming patients and visitors and gardening volunteers.

Volunteering Manager at Friends of the RUH, Pippa Weaver, said, “We’re so pleased to have built this relationship with Bath College which enables students to get a real feel for what it is like working in a hospital setting. We’re really grateful to Rebecca, and all our volunteers, who provide a much valued service for patients and volunteers across the hospital.” 

If you are interested in volunteering at the RUH, you can find out more on at https://friendsoftheruh.org. uk – call 01225 824046 or email ruh-tr.volunteers@ nhs.net