Find out more about volunteering with us

What will I do as a volunteer

  • Our volunteers attend community events and fairs to talk to local people about the work of Healthwatch Surrey.
  • They also meet local people through engagements arranged by Healthwatch Surrey. They listen to what local people have to say about health and care services, and accurately record their views, both good and bad. They signpost people to other organisations that can help them where necessary.
  • Volunteers help us to identify local community groups such as carers groups, veterans’ groups and faith groups who are meeting in Surrey. They inform our Volunteer and Engagement Officer about these, who will contact the group and arrange a suitable time for us to attend and listen to people’s experiences.
  • Our reading panel group of volunteers help us prepare for/attend meetings and ensure public facing copy meets the needs of local people.
  • They also have the opportunity help us with our research projects and undertake mini-projects of their own, which include projects on mental health, general health and social care, and pharmacy. Volunteers survey at least 5 people on their chosen topic and write up their findings in a short report – they are fully supported by our Volunteer Officer. Any of our volunteers can undertake these mini-projects, but we find it of particular interest to our student volunteers who can take their reports forward to show future employers and for evidence on their UCAS forms.

In return for giving your time to us, we can offer:

  • Travel expenses for attending events and meetings.
  • Full induction.
  • Training in safeguarding, equality and diversity, engagement and signposting. The training is online and can be taken at a convenient time for you.
  • Regular check-ins from our Volunteer and Engagement Officer, Hannah.
  • Opportunities to meet with other volunteers.
  • Support from a member of our team at each engagement, as well as receiving ongoing support from our Volunteer and Engagement Officer.
  • Additional training and support depending on the type of engagement events you volunteer for.
  • Opportunities to get involved in other areas of our work.