About the Role
Enter & View Volunteers visit health and social care settings as part of a trained team to speak with patients, residents, families, carers, and staff.
These visits help us understand real experiences of care and ensure that people’s voices are heard by service providers and decision-makers.
What You’ll Be Doing
As part of a team, you will:
- Take part in planning Enter & View visits, including discussions with service managers
- Speak with patients, residents, family members, carers, and staff to gather feedback
- Record people’s experiences and observations during visits
- Contribute to writing reports highlighting good practice and areas for improvement
- Support follow-up work with Healthwatch staff to discuss findings with service providers
- Help check whether recommended improvements have made a difference
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for volunteers who:
- Are comfortable speaking with people from a wide range of backgrounds
- Can listen with empathy, including in sensitive situations
- Are able to remain impartial and balanced when gathering information
- Enjoy working as part of a team
- Can analyse information to identify themes and insights
- Have basic IT skills (such as Microsoft Word) – desirable but not essential
No previous experience is required, as full training will be provided.
Support and Training
We want your volunteering experience to be positive, supportive, and rewarding. You will receive:
- Full training before taking part in visits
- Ongoing support from the Healthwatch team
- Regular contact with a named staff member
- A Healthwatch North Northamptonshire volunteer handbook
Why Volunteer with Healthwatch?
By becoming an Enter & View Volunteer, you will:
- Help improve health and social care services in your local area
- Give people a voice, including those who are often not heard
- Meet new people and work as part of a supportive team
- Develop valuable skills and experience
- Gain confidence and contribute to meaningful community change
- Take a positive step towards future employment opportunities
Time Commitment
This role is flexible and designed to fit around your existing commitments. We will work with you to arrange involvement in visits and activities that suit your availability.
Location
You will support visits across North Northamptonshire, including settings such as Wellingborough, Corby, and Kettering, and services including hospitals, GP practices, dental practices, mental health services, and adult social care settings.
How to Apply
To apply or find out more, please contact our Healthwatch Service Manager, Claire:
📧 claire.neilson@healthwatchnn.org.uk
📞 07512 898229
We look forward to hearing from you!