A hospital volunteer has spoken about how it has changed his life – as NHS organisations call out to their communities to consider volunteering.
Mike Ingram has been volunteering at the University Hospital of North Tees for the last six months.
Over this time he has been offering help as a volunteer driver, helping transport patients to and from their appointments.
Mike, from Stockton, has described how volunteering has taken him away from the “same four walls” and improved his quality of life.
He said: “I was looking for something to do – a chance to get away from the same four walls in the house and interact with other people. I have worked all of my life and I like being busy.
“When I contacted the hospital about volunteering, they were really helpful and spoke to me about what I could help with.
“Over the last few months I have met some lovely people – both patients and the amazing staff I get to help and support.
“My advice to anyone looking to volunteer would be to go for it with 110% enthusiasm. You won’t regret doing it.
“It could be the best new year resolution you could make.”
There are many opportunities to volunteer across University Hospitals Tees, not only as a driver but roles that will support and guide patients and visitors around the hospital site, encourage patients to eat and drink on the wards and spending time chatting to patients to keep them company – as well as so much more.
Lindsay Rutherford-Hoe, volunteer co-ordinator, said: “For people like Mike, volunteering has not only been a huge help to us in the care we give to patients but it has helped him too.
“Like so many others, he has experienced the impact of a lack of social interaction and has discovered how volunteering can help change that.
“We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, outlooks and skills to benefit our patients. You simply need to be a people person.
“The hours and role can be adapted to fit around your life and interests. Some of our volunteers are gaining valuable work experience for their future careers, while others would simply like to fill their spare time by chatting to our patients.
“If you’re considering volunteering, come and have a chat with us and see what we can offer.”
University Hospitals Tees will be holding two drop-in events for anyone to find out more about volunteering.
These will be held at:
University Hospital of North Tees
- Tees meeting room
- 14 January 2026
- 2pm – 4pm
The James Cook University Hospital
- Room 20, Strive
- 27 January 2026
- 1.30pm – 3.30pm
To find out more about volunteering at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool, visit the online website.
To find out more about volunteering at The James Cook University Hospital and Friarage Hospital visit the official website.