Healthwatch says thank you to volunteers who help shape health and social care in Wiltshire

We celebrate the difference volunteers make to their community during this year’s Volunteers’ Week, 1-7 June.

Around 40 volunteers currently offer their time to Healthwatch Wiltshire in its work to make health and care services meet the needs of local people.
 
Covid-19 has meant that getting out and about talking and listening people hasn’t been possible, but our volunteers have still been able to give 1,134 hours of their time this year, helping us to:

  • Promote Healthwatch Wiltshire and our role within their local communities.
  • Pass on advice and information and help us gather feedback.
  • Help people have their say from home by carrying out interviews over the phone.
  • Review documents, such as reports, for us and our partners.

Our volunteers are part of a network of more than 5,000 people who are involved with Healthwatch across the country. The work at each local Healthwatch contributes to work at Healthwatch England in its mission to ensure that people are at the heart of care.

And with restrictions being lifted this summer, we’re looking forward to getting out to events in your community to hear about what matters to you.

Healthwatch Wiltshire Volunteer and Partnerships Lead Jo Woodsford said:

"Our volunteers are our ambassadors and they are at the heart of everything we do.

"Without them it simply wouldn't be possible to reach out to so many people across Wiltshire. They each make their own unique contribution so I'd like to say a big thank you to each and every one of them for bringing their skills, experience and dedication to supporting us.

"If you're thinking of volunteering, we'd love to hear from you. Whether you have an hour or two to spare or are looking to make a more regular commitment, we will be able to find a role to suit you." 

Hear more from our young volunteers

We set up Young Healthwatch Wiltshire for young people, aged 16-25, who want to make a difference to their community and have an interest in the rights and wellbeing of young people in Wiltshire.

Their recent work has included the creation of a mental health support services list for children and young people and a mystery shopping review of online mental health support in Wiltshire.

Watch our young volunteers Erin and Robyn talk about why they volunteer with us.

Find out more 

Interested in volunteering?

If you’d like to become a volunteer, you can get more details here or email joanne.woodsford@healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk

What can I do as a volunteer?

Share your story

If you're not able to volunteer, you can still make a difference by sharing your experiences of health and social care services with us. No matter how big or small, we want to hear about it.

Have your say