Guide desk volunteers help make Goulburn Base Hospital visits less daunting

So when she saw last year that the new clinical services building at Goulburn Base Hospital needed guide desk volunteers, she immediately applied, and started her first shift last November.

"Most people are always daunted by a lot of signs in front of them at a hospital, and they can become very confused and upset when they're trying to find their loved one," she said.

"My role as a guide desk volunteer is to greet people in the hospital and help them find the ward and department they're wanting to visit.

"I was attracted to the role because it was an opportunity to help people get around easily in the new hospital."

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Donna said being a volunteer at the new hospital was a privilege and gratifying to be helping others, even in the smallest way.

Goulburn Health Service volunteer coordinator, Katherine Lee, who assists in recruiting volunteers at Goulburn Base Hospital, said the hospital was currently recruiting for more guide desk volunteers.

She said the recruitment-drive deadline had been extended to April 1 and she welcomed people interested in volunteering for the health service to make contact.

Donna said volunteering was gratifying to be giving your time, whether it be one hour or one day a week, to help someone else.

"In other words, giving your time and passion to others, instead of taking and thinking about oneself is a great feeling," she said.

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Before Donna started volunteering at the guide desk, she volunteered for a short time in oncology.

"In that time, I don't think I have met so many nice, funny people in one room and this was every week. Full of laughs, chatting to each other, and of course, a lot of patients know each other," she said.

"I was so moved by that experience, as here they were waiting to have their treatment, but enjoying a chat, a cup of tea and bickies, and each other's company.

"If you're interested in volunteering at the hospital, don't be afraid, even if you've not done anything like it.

"There is full training before you start and you are also 'buddied' up with someone more experienced to help you before you go out alone.

"Plus, if you're ever in doubt or upset with the role you are in, the volunteer coordinator is always there to talk to and guide you or advise a role that could be well suited for you."

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As well as recruiting for guide desk volunteers, the Goulburn Health Service is hoping to recruit volunteers for the Pink Ladies and Gentlemen program, which provides reading and activity materials, as well as support, to patients in care.

To find out more about Guide Desk volunteering and the Pink Ladies and Gentlemen program, email SNSWLHD-Volunteers@health.nsw.gov.au or call volunteer coordinator Katherine Lee on 0476 513 261.

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