Friend of Emergency Department, Nelson Hospital

This position provides comfort, support and information to patients and their supporters in the Department, thereby freeing up staff to concentrate on the clinical management of patients.

Key duties:

• sitting with, listening to and talking with patients;
• assisting relatives and supporting them if required;
• keeping a reassuring eye on patients in the waiting area;
• offering a shoulder to cry on or a hand to hold;
• assisting with dependant (elderly) relatives or children;
• helping out with delivery of meals and cups of tea;
• finding the likes of a magazine or a telephone;
• making some beds when the department is busy, assisting with linen;
• assisting with general tidiness of the public areas; and
• any other task approved by Hospital Management

Volunteering with Health New Zealand Nelson Marlborough is a meaningful way to support patients, families, and staff while giving back to your local community. It helps improve patient experiences through companionship and practical support, while also giving volunteers valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and empathy.

At the same time, it offers personal fulfilment, the chance to meet new people, and insight into the healthcare environment, making it especially rewarding.