Teenager praises ‘amazing' Paisley hospital experience after volunteer role
A teenager who provides companionship and support to patients at a Paisley hospital has told how the role has helped prepare her to study medicine at university.
Sophie Henderson spends around two hours per week after school as a volunteer at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) assisting patients in a medical respiratory ward.
The 17-year-old said the experience and commitment has given her a valuable insight into working in a clinical environment – and built her confidence as she works towards becoming a doctor.
The Johnstone High School pupil, who is currently finishing sixth year, has been accepted to study medicine at the University of Aberdeen after the summer.
She has been volunteering at the RAH for over a year and initially supported the staff 'relaxation and recuperation hub' when she joined during the Easter holidays in 2024. She went on to become a ward support volunteer.
Sophie told of her 'amazing experience' working with patients, staff and visitors, and the rewarding feeling she gets from providing companionship to those who may otherwise feel isolated.
She said: 'I come in every Thursday at around dinnertime and the nature of the respiratory ward means that often you see the same patients multiple times.
'They will quite often remember me from the last time they were in hospital and it's really nice to know I've made an impact on them.
'When I come in, I will usually go around each of the rooms in the ward to see if anybody needs anything, and then will sit and have a chat just to keep them company.
'It has been an amazing experience to build these relationships with patients and staff and to spend time in a hospital setting – it has really built up my confidence.
'It has also given me perspective and some knowledge and experience of the different roles of people working in hospitals. It really helped me prepare for my future career in medicine and confirmed this is something I want to pursue.'
Sophie shared her story as NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) celebrates Volunteers' Week. Many sites are actively seeking to recruit volunteers. More information about volunteering and current opportunities can be found on the health board's website.
Sophie received training and was paired with a 'buddy' when she first started doing shifts, and later went on to become a mentor to other new volunteers. She also recently won a summit award for her outstanding contribution to volunteering.
Harry Balch, volunteer manager for NHSGGC's Clyde sector, said: 'Sophie is a valued member of the volunteer team. She is friendly, professional, organised and compassionate and possesses excellent interpersonal skills.
'Within the department, Sophie is incredibly hard working and very respectful in her approach and the patients benefit hugely from the time she spends with them.
'Volunteers' Week gives us the opportunity to say a huge thank you to our volunteers and celebrate their generous contribution.
'Volunteers come from all walks of life, bringing a whole range of experience and skills to the service and that's what makes volunteering so beneficial.
'Not only do the volunteers provide invaluable support to patients, it can be a hugely rewarding – and sometimes surprising – experience for those who volunteer.'
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