Leah James, Year 12, has been volunteering at New Coss Hospital. This is her story.

I started volunteering at my local hospital during these difficult times. This opportunity came through as a way to have more people work in hospital wards to help and support healthcare staff.

My day starts off with a small ward round observing the doctors and nurses as they treat the patients in the morning. I would then help with breakfast and make sure that everyone is full and happy to start their daily routines. Jobs include changing the beds of each patient on the ward, which can be a struggle but nonetheless fun, and giving a tea round. By taking the correct precautions and wearing a full suit of PPE, I am able to converse with the patients and lighten up their days, as they are unable to see family members hence why I love to sit and listen to their fantastic stories such as touring with the English cricket team in South Africa or romantic stories about their partner! People tend to forget that they are as bored as you sitting at home even if they are surrounded by more people, they aren’t even allowed outside for a walk! Nevertheless, my experience has just started and so far it has been amazing to work alongside the people who we clap and cheer for on Thursdays at 8 pm.

The NHS has been doing a wonderful job and I am so grateful to have been given this opportunity to give an extra pair of hands to my community.

Leah James Year 12