Limerick hospital looking for volunteers

UL Hospitals is calling for people who are interested in volunteering to take part in their patient liaison programme. 

Patient liaison volunteers provide assistance to patients and visitors to University Hospital Limerick. Their role is to help with directions, answer general enquiries and in essence be a 'go to' information point at the hospital.

Volunteering allows people to participate in their community to help build a better society and to give something back.   To be a successful patient liaison volunteer you need to be a good communicator, outgoing and be comfortable talking to people. 

Patient Liaison Manager Miriam McCarthy says 'We are looking to add some new volunteers to the team already in place in University Hospital Limerick. It's a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in volunteering a few hours a week.   We provide all our volunteers with comprehensive training and support before they start so our volunteers are learning new skills.'

Caroline O'Shaughnessy has been volunteering at UHL for over six months. 'Volunteering at the hospital is just brilliant and something I really enjoy.  The best part is that you are helping someone and making their visit to the hospital a more pleasant experience.  People can get disorientated in a place they are not used to.  Showing people where to go, or taking them to their appointment so they arrive relaxed and with a smile on their face gives me a great sense of achievement.'

Volunteers are required to commit to just one 3 hour session per week either morning or afternoon and must be over 16 years of age, in good health and comfortable being on their feet for a few hours.  If you are interested in getting more information please contact Miriam McCarthy on 061-482448 or email volunteers.ulhospitals@hse.ie.