General Information | Volunteers

General Information | Volunteers

What is the Play Service Volunteer Programme?

The aim of the volunteer programme is to help support children and their families by providing organised play activity throughout the hospital. The volunteers provide play activity with individual children or small groups throughout the hospital. They also provide a listening ear for parents who welcome another adult to talk to. Some volunteers help in other ways such as maintaining toys or helping with clerical work. We will try and find the best area for you.

What is the Play Service?

It is a hospital based department that provides emotional support for children and their families whilst in hospital.

When is the Play Service open?

The main hours are from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, however the accident and emergency department is open weekends too. Most of our volunteers come in during the week but we have some weekend volunteers too. The busiest times are between 9am and 12pm and 1pm and 4.30pm during the week but it is harder to predict the busy sessions in A&E.

What can I expect?

The hospital can be quite overwhelming at first, especially if you have no experience of hospitals or sick children. You may feel anxious about the machinery on the wards or the physical condition of the children. Don't worry, this is a perfectly normal reaction and you will soon begin to feel comfortable on the ward. The children are from all ages and backgrounds. If you feel you require any help with working with a particular age or group of children please ask. You will work alongside a member of the play team until you feel confident to work by yourself. We want you to enjoy your time with us so please tell us if you have worries or concerns.

Confidentiality

As a volunteer you do not need to know what is wrong with the children so we ask that you do not ask for information. However, you may overhear conversations about the children or parents may tell you about their child. It is very important that you do not discuss what you have heard with anyone else. For the same reason photographs and videos should not be taken of the children.

Support for volunteers

Individual training will be offered to suit your needs. There is a review after six months to see how you feel you are getting on. You will be given information but please remember if you are unsure about anything ask!! If you are upset by what you experience it is important to talk to someone. Members of the play team are always available for you to talk to.

What happens if I'm not able to come for my usual session?

Holidays, illness or unexpected appointments happen. This doesn't create any problems. If you are unable to come in, please phone the Play Centre on 0121 333 8650 to let us know. Some volunteers who are studying may need to take a short break to prepare for exams. This is no problem. Just tell us how long you will be absent and when you want to return.

How many hours do I need to commit to?

There is a minimum commitment of 2 hours per week but many volunteers do more. Some volunteers only come in during school holidays and others just in term time. The programme is very flexible you can discuss your needs at the interview.

How long does it take to become a volunteer?

It is quite a lengthy process. When we receive your application form we contact your referees and offer you an interview. It is very informal and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and have a look around the hospital. If your interview is successful your health and police checks are sent for processing. This can take up to six weeks. If these are clear we can then offer you a start date, so as you see one of the requirements for our volunteers is patience! We need to have such rigorous checks in order to protect the children. I'm sure you can understand the need to do this. If you want to check on your progress you can contact the Play Co-ordinator who will be happy to update you.

Guidelines for the role of volunteers

	Volunteers must be over 18 years and under 65 before commencing
	Volunteers should commit to at least 2 hours per week and for a minimum of six months.
	Volunteers once trained are able to work unsupervised.
	Volunteers should not be allowed to pick up children or escort them alone.
	Confidentiality is very important. Nothing related to any case should be disclosed outside the hospital.
	Volunteers should not be allowed to seek information from families.
	Volunteers should not use the volunteer scheme as a college placement.
	Volunteers should not be involved in the lifting or movement of children, furniture or patients unless they have written evidence of training in manual handling.
	Volunteers should not get involved with treatments and procedures.
	Volunteers should be neatly dressed.

If you have any queries about becoming a volunteer or would like an application form please contact the Play Co-ordinator at:

The Play centre
Birmingham Children's Hospital
Steelhouse Lane
Birmingham B4 6NH
Tel: 0121 333 8650

E-mail: play.department@bch.nhs.uk

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