Volunteer appeal for Northamptonshire hospital roles – Could you make a difference?

University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) is seeking volunteers to join their friendly team and help make a difference to patients, visitors and colleagues at Northampton and Kettering General Hospitals.

The recruitment campaign comes as UHN expands its volunteer services - introducing new Emergency Department volunteer opportunities at both hospitals and Patient and Theatre Support roles at Kettering General Hospital - to provide comfort and support to patients and relatives during what can often be a stressful and uncertain time.

Other opportunities include ward volunteers to provide patient companionship, response volunteers to support with practical tasks, charity volunteers to raise awareness of charitable projects, and gardening volunteers at Northampton General Hospital to help maintain green spaces.

Among those already experiencing the rewards of volunteering is Paul Jackson, 73, from Northampton, who donated his time after receiving life-saving treatment for a heart attack. After being cared for by staff at Northampton General Hospital and undergoing a triple bypass operation, Paul wanted a meaningful way to give something back.

He said: “Giving your time to help others is so wonderful. You are appreciated by others, it gets you out of yourself and gives you a sense of purpose. It did me the world of good. You really feel part of a wonderful family and a community of people who come together to look after everybody who comes through the door.”

Read more about Paul’s journey from heart attack patient to hospital volunteer at From heart attack to volunteering – how one patient said thank you

UHN is now encouraging compassionate individuals from all walks of life to apply and become part of this supportive and rewarding community.

Emma Wimpress, Head of UHN Volunteering Services, said: "You don't need special qualifications to change a life. Just time, kindness and a desire to help others.

“Volunteering is about more than giving your time; it's about becoming part of a welcoming team, building lasting friendships, and using your skills and experience to make a real difference.

“Every shift offers the chance to brighten someone's day. The rewards are immeasurable, knowing you've supported patients, visitors and staff while being part of a community built on kindness, connection and compassion.”

Applicants need to commit to at least three hours each week between 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

The closing date for applications is Monday 24 August 2026 and the new volunteers will start from Monday 5 October.

For more information:

View our volunteering opportunities at Kettering General Hospital - Kettering General Hospital Jobs | Kettering General Hospital NHS

View our volunteering opportunities at Northampton General Hospital - Job Board