Our incredible team of volunteers make a positive difference to the experience of our patients, every single day of the year.

Volunteers provide invaluable assistance across each of our sites, Watford, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans and Abbots Langley, ensuring our patients receive comprehensive support beyond their medical needs.

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy … when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in."

Contact the Volunteer team

Who can volunteer?

Almost anyone! But you must be at least 16 years old.

We have around 600 volunteers from a hugely diverse range of backgrounds, ranging from 16 years old up to 92! Between them they speak over 30 different languages.

We’re proud to be inclusive and open to all. Our current volunteers are from all walks of life, some have physical or learning disabilities, we can usually find a suitable role for most people to help.

We’re looking for people who are responsible, reliable, empathetic, emotionally mature and able to communicate effectively.

There is no set amount of time expected from our volunteers, we understand everyone is in different situations and are so grateful to those who choose to dedicate any of their free time to helping our patients.

What does a volunteer do?

There are a large variety of roles available in departments across our trust. Everything from making a cups of tea, befriending patients, supporting staff with non-clinical duties to assisting in specialised roles like dementia companions and meal-time helpers.

Some volunteers have specific experience or knowledge about a certain condition and are keen to help others who may be in a similar situation. Let us know how you’d like to help.

Find out more about the roles available. 

Find out more about our volunteer roles

How can I volunteer?

Everyone who wishes to apply to become a volunteer at the Trust, will need to complete a volunteer application pack.

Once we've received your application pack, we'll need to check your references and complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for you.

You will also need to complete some mandatory training.

If you have any questions, please contact us on westherts.volunteers@nhs.net or 01923 217307.

Apply to become a volunteer