Volunteer Why be an inpatient unit volunteer at Mountbatten Hampshire? Jane's story When Jane Paul arrives for her morning shift on Mountbatten Hampshire’s inpatient unit, she’s met by the gentle buzz of conversation, the clink of breakfast trays, and often, laughter. “It’s a calm atmosphere,” Jane says. “You can joke with people — it’s a happy place. Even when there’s sadness in one room, there’s still warmth and light in another.” “It’s not a sad place — it’s calm, warm and full of life” — Jane Paul. A former district nurse with nearly 25 years’ experience, Jane supported many people at the end of life. “Palliative care was something I really enjoyed, because if you can make someone comfortable or pain-free, that’s the best outcome,” she says. During the pandemic, living locally and wanting to help, she joined Mountbatten Hampshire as a volunteer. Read more: click here to learn more about becoming an inpatient unit volunteer at Mountbatten Hampshire Jane’s role is all about small moments that make a big difference: delivering breakfast, helping someone sit up comfortably, setting up a TV, plugging in a phone, and simply taking the time to chat. “Patients don’t always want to bother the staff, but they really appreciate having someone to talk to,” she explains. “People’s stories are fascinating. When they share them, they’re not just a patient in bed — they’re a whole person again.” Inpatient unit volunteers free up clinical staff. Together, the time saved by inpatient unit volunteers each year is equivalent to one full‑time nurse on the ward. You don’t need a clinical background to volunteer, Jane stresses. “You just need to be kind and able to be around people approaching the end of life. It’s not a scary place — it’s friendly and supportive.” Staff are always on hand if you’re unsure: “They don’t hover, but they’re there straight away when you need them. You’re trusted, and never alone.” Read more: click here to learn more about becoming an inpatient unit volunteer at Mountbatten Hampshire There’s a community feel, too. “We have volunteer meetings and tea parties — even a WhatsApp group. You’re part of something bigger here.” Thinking about it? “Just come and try a shift,” Jane says. “You’ll be surprised how much you get out of it yourself.” Together, the time saved by inpatient unit volunteers each year is equivalent to one full‑time nurse on the ward. Join Jane at Mountbatten Hampshire and start making a difference, today. Find out more and apply by clicking here. Manage Cookie Preferences