Volunteers at Bethesda
Volunteers are a significant part of the Bethesda family, playing an irreplaceable role in the lives of patients and their families. They generously give their time so Bethesda staff can provide additional services to our community.
Interested in joining one of our volunteer teams?
Volunteer Teams
Volunteers operate throughout the Hospital, with a special focus on Palliative Care. Teams include:
- Meet & Greet
- Concierge
- Palliative Care
- Happy Hour Drinks Trolley for Palliative Care
- Therapists for Palliative Care (e.g. Art, Breathing & Meditation, Massage, Music, Pet Therapy, Reiki)
- Musicians, Singers and Choirs
- Clerical Support (including Palliative Care reception)
- Store Person
Strengths Required
Find an area that suits your personality, interests and skillset. Some strengths are essential in every area:
- Great communication
- Empathy and patience
- Understanding of confidentiality and privacy
- Friendly and helpful attitude
- Reliability, initiative, and punctuality
- Able to commit time on a regular basis
- Willingness to undergo orientation and training, and attend Volunteer Meetings
- Willingness to assist with fundraising activities
About the Teams
Volunteers primarily work in a Meet & Greet team, or in our Palliative Care Unit.
Meet & Greet
Often, you'll be the friendly face greeting patients and their families as they arrive — helping everyone feel welcome and comfortable, especially those who may be nervous or apprehensive. As part of your role, you'll:
- Direct queries (when appropriate) to the Concierge or main reception desk
- Escort new patients to their rooms
- Orientate new patients to their rooms
- Direct queries (when appropriate) to the main reception desk
- Assist staff at main reception, as required
- Make up new admission packs
- Assist with general clerical duties
Palliative Care
Palliative care is truly the heart of Bethesda. In a stressful time, we do our best to help every patient and their family members feel at-ease, empowered, and comfortable. As part of your role, you'll:
- Provide companionship and support for patients, relatives and friends
- Ensure required items are within reach for patients
- Freshen flowers throughout the ward
- Accompany independent patients on walks
- Take patients by wheelchair for a walk or fresh air
- Assist patients with food and/or fluids
- Assist patients to complete menus
- Make tea or coffee for relatives or patients
- Keep rooms tidy
- Provide hand and/or feet massages
- Provide assistance to nurses as directed
- Set up aromatherapy burners
Join Us
A rewarding experience awaits. We're always looking for passionate individuals who can help us make Bethesda even more welcoming and wonderful.
To enquire about joining, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Jessie Tan on (08) 9340 6303 or volunteering@bethesda.org.au.