A NEW volunteering programme at the hospital is designed to “complement, not replace” the work of professional staff, according to health department officials.
Announcing the launch of the scheme this week, the department said it aims to offer Islanders the chance to give their time and skills to support patients, families and visitors in non-clinical roles.
The first volunteer intake for 2026 is for ‘meet and greet’ and front-of-house support.
Following queries from the JEP about why volunteers were being sought rather than paid staff, the department clarified that “volunteers will be supplementing rather than substituting the employed workforce”.
Deputy head of patient experience Shannon Corbally said the programme had been established following requests from Islanders who wanted opportunities to give something back to the community within a healthcare setting.
She said: “While Health and Care Jersey recognises the value that volunteers play, they do not form part of our workforce strategy as their roles have been created to complement, not replace, the work of our professional staff.
“Volunteers will be provided with a clear role description, which will exclude clinical and core operational duties.”
The programme is open to Islanders with no previous medical experience, with the department emphasising that the key requirements are compassion, commitment and a willingness to help others.
Volunteers will receive training before starting their roles, as well as ongoing support to ensure they feel confident and valued.
According to the department, the scheme is intended to benefit both those receiving care and those who choose to volunteer.
“This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to offer their time, skills and passion,” said Ms Corbally. “I encourage people to apply and join our volunteering team.”
Most volunteer roles run Monday to Friday, between 9am and 4pm, excluding bank holidays.
Applications for the volunteering programme are now open, with further details about available roles online at gov.je/VolunteerHCJ.
Islanders interested in a role should email volunteer@health.gov.je with their full name, contact number, email address, available days and times, a short paragraph on they you want to volunteer, details of any previous volunteering experience, and state whether they have a current DBS check or are willing to get one.
