Job overview
Make a Difference by Volunteering With Us
Every day, our volunteers help create a welcoming, caring environment for patients, visitors and staff across our hospitals. Whether you're offering a friendly face, providing practical support, or helping someone navigate their visit, your time can make a real difference to someone's day.
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to your community, meet new people, gain valuable experience, and become part of a supportive and dedicated team. No matter the role, you'll play an important part in enhancing the experience of those who rely on our services.
We are currently recruiting for a range of volunteer opportunities.
If you're passionate about helping others and would like to make a positive impact in your local NHS, we'd love to hear from you.
Please only apply if you are able to commit to a minimum of 3 hours per a week.
How to apply:
Clearly state the role you are applying for in your application in supporting information – if you do not specify the preferred, sadly we cannot process your application.
Tell us which day and time (between Monday and Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm) you are available.
We receive many applications but can only accept a limited number of volunteers, so including all requested information is essential.
Main duties of the job
Northamptonshire Health Charity Volunteers:
Support the Oncology Patient Cafe, talk with patients and help promote the wonderful ways the charity brings comfort, extras and support to people across our hospitals.
Ward Volunteers:
Bring companionship, kindness and a reassuring presence to our patients on the wards, help to reduce loneliness, support hydration, provide a listening ear and engage in friendly conversation.
Emergency Department (18+):
Offer a friendly face, calm reassurance and practical support to patients and relatives who may be anxious, overwhelmed or unexpectedly in hospital, helping to ease pressure and improve their experience.
“The volunteers were really helpful, I’m grateful for your support.” – Northampton General Hospital Patient Feedback.
Response Volunteers:
Help keep the hospital moving by supporting collections, deliveries and requests across wards and departments. This is a varied, active role for someone who enjoys being busy, practical and part of a team.
Gardeners:
Help care for our hospital gardens, creating welcoming and peaceful outdoor spaces for patients, visitors, staff and volunteers. These gardens give patients somewhere calm to spend time away from the ward, support wellbeing and mental health, and provide a comfortable place to meet with family and friends.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Applicant requirements
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Person specification
Question 1
Essential
- Are you able to commit to a minimum of 3 hours per week on a regular day and time? (If not, we may be unable to progress your application, as most of our volunteer roles require a regular weekly commitment.)
Question 2
Essential
- Please tell us which days and times you are available (Monday to Friday 8.30am-4.30pm).
Question 3
Essential
- Why would you like to volunteer with us?
Question 4
Essential
- Which volunteer role are you interested in and what attracted you to this role? (listed in the advert)
Question 5
Essential
- What skills, experience or qualities would you bring to this role?
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Volunteer with Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust in Northampton General Hospital. The advertised salary is Negotiable. The contract type is Voluntary. The application deadline is 24 Aug 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (10 Aug 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHS job search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
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