A North East hospital Trust is seeking volunteer drivers to join its transport and logistics department.
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust presently has three volunteers.
As the service grows in popularity, procurement operational services manager Andy Jackson is now looking to recruit between 15 and 25 volunteers to assist with a variety of tasks vital to supporting the NHS.
Volunteer drivers play a 'crucial role' in ensuring patients and staff can move around the trust and community areas and assisting with providing transport for patients to and from outpatient appointments.
The also deliver medications to patients’ homes, test kits and provide dental deliveries, as well as help hospital staff travel between trust sites in Tees Valley and beyond.
Full training is provided, and the role offers excellent flexibility.
As the service operates 24/7, seven days a week, volunteers can choose their shifts to fit around their schedules, with the option of committing to just one day per week.
Andy Jackson, who oversees the transport operations for the trust, said: "The beauty of volunteering with us is that it can be a stepping stone into a career with the NHS.
"Whether you’re looking to learn new skills and grow your CV or give back to the NHS - whatever your reason for wanting to volunteer, we would love to hear from you."
If you have a full UK driving licence, a minimum of three years of driving experience and enjoy meeting and supporting patients and staff, the trust would love to hear from you.
Volunteers will receive all necessary equipment, including a vehicle, insurance, fuel, and a uniform, with all costs covered by the trust.
Julie Greaves decided to volunteer as a hospital driver to give back to the NHS after having four surgeries at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
She said: "I absolutely love being a volunteer driver," she said.
"I really enjoy getting out there and helping people – it’s a nice feeling and people do appreciate it.
"I especially like helping older people out who live rurally, they rely on us for things.
"If you have some spare time I’d definitely recommend signing up."
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