This National Volunteer Week, from 19 to 25 May, Northern NSW Local Health District is celebrating the dedicated Healthcare Helper volunteers who support patients, visitors and staff across our facilities.
From Grafton to the Tweed, Healthcare Helpers bring comfort and connection into the District’s health services, Community Engagement Manager Ged May said.
“Whether they’re greeting visitors, giving directions or simply sitting with someone who needs a chat, our volunteers help make hospitals feel more human,” Ged said.
“They play a vital role in helping patients and visitors feel welcome and supported. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them.
“We’re deeply grateful for the time, energy and compassion they bring.”
Across the District, Healthcare Helpers assist in such areas as outpatient clinics, waiting rooms, and general medical and surgical wards.
Terry Pope became a Healthcare Helper at Grafton Base Hospital after recovering from an aggressive form of myeloma.
“I realised that I was saved for a reason, as I understood that my journey provided me with a trusted and empathetic ‘ear’ when relating with folk who were on their own journeys,” Terry said.
“It’s a humbling privilege to share time visiting patients, providing a trusting and confidential space in which they can share their stories.”
For Terry Pope, being a Healthcare Helper is a privilege, driven by his love for people.
Murielle Cook said volunteering provided many touching moments she will never forget.
Marianne Kavanagh gets a great sense of worth volunteering as a Healthcare Helper.
Marianne Kavanagh volunteers alongside Terry at the same hospital.
What Marianne enjoys most about being a Healthcare Helper is the strong sense of purpose and worth it gives her.
“The nursing staff and patients are so appreciative of the small things I do during my shift, you can’t help but feel valued and appreciated,” she said.
“Every shift someone will say, ‘You do a mighty job here – are you volunteering?’ and ‘Wow that’s wonderful – thanks so much’.”
Kathleen Harding, a Healthcare Helper at Lismore Base Hospital, echoes Marianne’s sentiment.
“Volunteering has an all-round positive effect as it not only helps those on the receiving end it also makes my job worthwhile and fulfilling," Kathleen said.
“You meet all sorts of people, chat and laugh with them, listen to their stories happy or sad.
“I would definitely encourage someone to volunteer as it is a rewarding experience all round.”
Mitchell Owen is another Healthcare Helper at Lismore Base Hospital. For Mitchell, the role offers meaningful connections that energise him.
“Volunteering here has not only deepened my empathy but has given me a profound sense of purpose and compassion,” he said.
“It’s especially meaningful to offer companionship to patients who have no one else visiting. Their gratitude and openness make me feel truly privileged to be part of the Lismore Base Hospital team.”
Murielle Cook joined the Healthcare Helper team at Maclean District Hospital to offer help to her local community.
She said her self-esteem was boosted as soon as she started in the role.
“I never spend a day volunteering without receiving many comments like ‘Big thank you’, ‘You’re doing such an amazing job’ and ‘What would we do without you’,” Murielle said.
Martin Grose was a patient in late 2023, spent time in both the old Tweed Hospital and the Gold Coast University Hospital.
"I had never spent a night in hospital before and the thing that I learnt was the caring and kind nature of all the hospital staff that are focused on making sure that if you must go into hospital, that you are given the best care available.”
“If you wish to give back to your community a little support and kindness, help people in need, listen to life stories and experiences, offer a hand or a smile and compassion in sad moments to patients, then volunteering in hospital is for you.”
Feedback speaks volumes. Patients have described the District’s Healthcare Helpers as a highlight of their treatment experience, with one patient rescheduling appointments to see a particular volunteer again.
Peter McStay been volunteering in a variety of roles since the Tweed Valley Hospital opened. He said it's been a very rewarding experience and the satisfaction of each shift is profound.
Leanne Marchant said volunteers do not necessarily have the time, but they have the heart to help others!
Martin Grose said the action of giving back motivated him to join the TVH Volunteer Orange Army.
Clarence Health Service General Manager Dan Madden thanks volunteers for their important contributions.
“We really appreciate all the support shown by the community by our wonderful Healthcare Helpers,” Dan said.
Ballina District Hospital Executive Officer/Director of Nursing Melanie Allan-Male has nothing but praise for her hospital’s volunteers.
“Our volunteers are a wonderful group of people who dedicate their time and have a true passion for the hospital, our patients and staff," Melanie said.
To learn more or express interest about becoming a Healthcare Helper, visit Volunteering with Northern NSW Local Health District or email us.
Kathleen Harding loves her shifts on the Greet and Guide Desk at the Lismore Base Hospital foyer.
Veronica Niessen has volunteered in Oncology Care for the last 4 months. She says it's a most humbling and rewarding experiences.
Owen Mitchell says his work at Lismore Base not only uplifts but keeps him active and connected to the community.