Chris Young Hinchingbrooke Volunteer
A valued member of the Hinchingbrooke Hospital volunteer team has received a highly commended award for Adult Learning and Skills after overcoming his confidence and self-esteem issues.
Chris Young, 28, who has mild learning difficulties, approached Switch Now a community organisation dedicated to supporting young adults with learning difficulties or disabilities, in December 2016.
At the time Chris had very little social interaction which was impacting on his physical, mental health and wellbeing. After a few meetings Chris was introduced to the possibility of volunteering at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.
With support from the volunteer services team and the staff on the wards, Chris has embraced volunteering and is making a difference to the patient experience by being an added resource on the wards.
Chris initially volunteered one day a week carrying out administration tasks for three wards; this has increased his confidence to a level where he now also volunteers on the main reception desk, greeting visitors to the Trust.
In July Chris proudly received a highly commended award for Adult Learning and Skills which was presented at the #BeInspired event, hosted by Cambridge County Council at Ely College.
Barry Pridmore (Volunteer Manager) said: - Volunteering makes a real difference to people, none more so than the volunteers themselves. Chris has clearly highlighted how volunteering can have a positive impact on your own health and wellbeing and hopes his volunteer experience will lead to employment opportunities in the future.”
Catherine Fairholm (Switch Now) said: - “Chris said to me when I mentioned that he seemed happier “that is was down to the work at the hospital, just fantastic”
ENDS
Back to Trust News
