Letitia Hawkins, 22, talks about how her volunteering was of such benefit in beginning a career of work in caring.
LETITIA’S JOURNEY
I got involved with volunteering with help from my support worker at Phoenix, a support group for domestic violence. After everything that had happened, I was ready to take the next step. My support worker helped me look for different roles, and when she mentioned NHS befriending roles I applied there and then. I’d always known that I like to give care to others.
VOLUNTEER BEFRIENDER ROLE
As a volunteer befriender in Ebbw Vale Hospital, I’d go to chat with the patients. I’d try to make them smile and feel better, sometimes we’d reminisce over memories. We’d talk about whatever really, but it was nice to see them smiling. It gave me a lovely feeling. Walking out of the room and seeing the difference from when I walked in is the best. Even just ten to 15 minutes would make someone happier and more positive in their behaviour and attitude, far happier than if they’ve just spoken to medical staff about treatment.
BENEFIT’S OF THE PLACEMENT
The volunteering placement helped me grow personally, give me more confidence and help me with skills like being able to think on the spot and be better at communicating. Words are not enough. it was absolutely amazing. I was really able to better myself – it was amazing. And it was a really useful stepping stone that helped me get paid employment as a Care Assistant at BankHouse Care Home in Ebbw Vale. I really love my job caring for other people, giving them my time whenever I can, it really helps them.
Right now I’m doing an NVQ in advice and guidance. I’m going to use that and my job as a Care Assistant and hopefully find a pathway into nursing. I’m just trying to better myself in any way I can.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information on any issue raised in this case study, please email healthandcare@wcva.cymru.