Volunteers at the hospital have diverse roles, including administrative work, front desk assistance and providing companionship services to patients. The volunteers play a crucial role in creating a welcoming environment and strengthening the connection between the hospital and the community. Pictured are ERH volunteer co-ordinator Lisa Ellerton with volunteer Marika Szendroe.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Echuca Regional Health volunteer co-ordinator Lisa Ellerton has been working to recruit and support the hospital's 71 volunteers over the past 12 months.
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Her role involves recruiting, onboarding and supporting volunteers.
“I work closely with the staff across the hospital to ensure the volunteers are well placed and feel valued,” Mrs Ellerton said.
“They have pretty diverse roles here supporting both patients and staff.
“Each role plays an important part in enhancing the patient experience and supporting the smooth running of ERH.”
The volunteers undertake various duties, including administrative work and front desk assistance.
“We have front desk volunteers, who will help you find your way, greet people and help direct them to day surgery, wards and assisting in our pop-up shop,” Mrs Ellerton said.
Companionship services form another crucial aspect of the volunteer program.
“Volunteers also undertake companionship, reassurance and support for patients in rehab, or in Glanville Village, our aged care facility, and also in the ED,” Mrs Ellerton said.
“We have a number of community group partnerships that are part of our Crafting for a Cause campaign.
“The groups donate handmade items like beautiful blankets, handmade quilts and scarves to sell to staff and visitors.
“Last year, we raised $5000 for the health service from sales of the donated items.”
A pop-up shop at the hospital sells donated crafted items to raise funds, with $5000 raised last year for the hospital. Pictured are Judy Campbell, Karen Knight, ENH volunteer co-ordinator Lisa Ellerton, Marika Szendroe and Ann Higgins.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Mrs Ellerton emphasises the vital role volunteers play in healthcare delivery.
“Volunteers are incredibly important because they bring that human touch, which complements the health service and frees up our medical staff to do what they are good at,” she said.
“They create that welcoming environment and strengthen that connection between the hospital and the community.”
The health service is continually seeking new volunteers across various roles.
“We welcome people with specific skills or interest, whether that’s customer service, administration or community engagement,” Mrs Ellerton said.
“There is something for everyone and we’re always open to shaping roles around the strengths of our volunteers.”
Prospective volunteers undergo a structured process, including hospital tours, one-on-one interviews and orientation sessions.
Volunteers are asked to volunteer one three-hour shift per week or fortnight.
Those interested in volunteering at Echuca Regional Health can contact Lisa Ellerton on 5485 5434 or at volunteers@erh.org.au or more information can be found at erh.org.au/volunteers
Echuca Regional Health volunteer co-ordinator Lisa Ellerton has been actively recruiting and supporting the hospital's 60 volunteers over the past year.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
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