Ambulance Service Volunteer - HALO Helping Hand (Trust Wide)

Job overview

The HALO Helping Hands role is an assistant to the Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officer (HALO).

We are looking for volunteers to support this new initiative at the following locations:

• Southmead Hospital / Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol
• Royal United Hospital Bath
• Derriford Hospital, Plymouth
• Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske

We also welcome applications from the below locations, to support future expansion of the role. Please note we plan to develop into these new areas during 2025 with applicants placed into a 'holding pool' until recruitment occurs.

• Torbay Hospital, Torquay
• Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
• Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Dorset
• Poole General Hospital, Dorset

The aim of the HALO is to manage the smooth transition of patients from the incoming ambulance crews into the care of hospital teams. They also aim to get the ambulances turned round so they are available for the next emergency call without delay. This is a critical role in the operational efficiency of the organisation and is directly related to patient safety.

The role is non-patient facing (does not deliver clinical care / assessments to patients), however some patient contact is required through engagement, supporting Ambulance crews and their patients on arrival at hospital, and whilst awaiting off-loading.

Main duties of the job

RESPONSIBILITIES

• To volunteer reliably to the best of my ability and to give as much warning as possible whenever you cannot volunteer as you expect.
• Carry out volunteering tasks as directed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust leadership team.
• Select and apply in each task the appropriate procedures in accordance with the training received and relevant policies and procedures.
• To communicate with everyone in a clear and effective manner to ensure the best possible experience for everyone involved in the initiative.
• To maintain the confidential information of the organisation and of its patients at all times and in accordance with the Trust’s information governance guidance and policy.
• To treat everyone with whom you come into contact, with dignity and respect.
• Promote Equality & Diversity and a non-discriminatory culture. Identify and take action when other people’s behaviour undermines the expectation of the Trust and of yours.
• To join this volunteering role on the understanding there is no remuneration by the Trust for either pay or for personal vehicle use, excluding mileage.
• Carryout all duties with a high standard of infection, prevention and control measures in place, including maintaining an effective personal hygiene standard.
• Maintain appropriate standards of cleanliness of the SWAST Volunteer uniform, operating environment, and all equipment.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For further information about this role please see attached the  volunteer role description and requirements attached.

The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust offers volunteer placements across the organisation with both patient facing, and non-patient facing roles. The role description summarises the HALO Helping Hands volunteering role and will be supported by local inductions specific to the tasks applicable at that hospital.

As a HALO Helping Hands volunteer you are a valued member of our service, supporting our organisation to deliver its mission, vision and uphold our values, willingly and without pay. This role is highly rewarding and offers opportunities to meet new people and learn valuable social and lifesaving skills through the training.