Volunteering Discovery

Inclusive Pathways

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery we explore how volunteering and Project Search create genuine career routes at James Paget University Hospital. Hear from pharmacy staff and volunteers Reece and Charlie, who share how inclusive support builds confidence, skills and long-term employment opportunities.

This episode highlights best‑practice approaches that remove barriers and open doors for people with learning disabilities, autism that we seek to build on through our Norfolk and Waveney Volunteering for Health programme.

To find out more about volunteering at James Paget University Hospital click here

Volunteering Discovery is produced for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System by Hospital Radio Norwich.

Volunteering Without Barriers

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

This episode of Volunteering Discovery explores how James Paget University Hospital creates inclusive volunteering opportunities. Volunteer Coordinator John Gilligan shares how the team supports people with learning disabilities through flexible training and tailored roles.

We also hear from Casey and Adam, two volunteers who talk about why they got involved, the challenges they overcame, and the difference volunteering makes for patients and staff.

If you’re curious about volunteering in health and social care—or how to make it accessible—this episode is full of practical tips and inspiring stories.

To find out more about volunteering at the James Paget University Hospital Volunteer | James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Contact the Volunteering Discovery team: nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Produced for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System by Hospital Radio Norwich.

Evaluating Volunteering for Health, part 2

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This is part 2 of our look at the evaluation of the Norfolk and Waveney Volunteering for Health programme. This episode explores how evaluation helps shape and sustain volunteering in health. Daniel Schaffer (Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board) and Sally Dyson (Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust) share insights on using data and collaboration to improve services, secure funding, and show volunteers the impact of their work. Through the conversations we consider how from planning to storytelling, evaluation proves vital in building meaningful, lasting change.

To learn more about the Volunteering for Health programme in Norfolk and Waveney, visit https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/volunteering-for-health-norfolk-and-waveney/

Get in touch; nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Evaluating Volunteering for Health: part 1

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this first part of our special on evaluating Volunteering for Health in Norfolk and Waveney, we meet Dr. Jurgen Grotz (Institute for Volunteering Research at the University of East Anglia) to discuss how we measure the impact of volunteering in health and care. We explore why evaluation matters, how to define success, and the importance of collaboration and respect for volunteers throughout the process.

Institute for Volunteering Research: https://www.uea.ac.uk/groups-and-centres/institute-for-volunteering-research

Volunteering for Health in Norfolk and Waveney: https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/volunteering-for-health-norfolk-and-waveney/

Volunteering Discovery: nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Get Involved Skills

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery, we explore Get InVOLved Skills—a new online platform designed to support volunteers and voluntary sector professionals across Norfolk and Waveney with high-quality, accessible training.

Our guests are Laura Holland (Voluntary Norfolk) shares the inspiration behind the platform, its features, and how it’s helping organisations and individuals grow. Lynn Fanning (Norfolk and Waveney ICB) discusses how the platform is being used to deliver practical training to unpaid carers and volunteers, including topics like hydration, malnutrition, and hospital discharge.

Whether you're a volunteer, a carer, or someone who supports them, this episode offers insights into how digital tools are making learning more inclusive, flexible, and impactful.

Explore the platform: getinvolvedskills.org.uk

Contact for training enquiries: info@getinvolvedskills.org.uk

Feedback on training sessions: l.fanning1@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Get Involved Innovation Fund

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Get Involved Innovation Fund provides small financial awards and advice and guidance for organisations to test new approaches to involving volunteers. It is a core part of the Volunteering for Health programme in Norfolk and Waveney. In this episode we meet Cata Parrish at Voluntary Norfolk who tells us what the fund is and what to expect from the application process. And we meet Rik Martin at Community Action Norfolk who fills us in on what support organisations can expect.

To find out more about the fund visit https://www.getinvolvedskills.org.uk/get-involved-innovation-fund

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery team contact nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Volunteering for Health

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Volunteering for Health is an exciting national programme and Norfolk and Waveney are one of 15 partnerships involved. In this episode we meet Nicky Stainton at Voluntary Norfolk who tells us all about what is underway in Norfolk and Waveney. Then we hear from Samantha Hartles at NHS Charities Together who shares the background and ambitions for this fantastic initiative.

To find out more about Volunteering for Health in Norfolk and Waveney visit https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/volunteering-for-health-norfolk-and-waveney/

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery or Volunteering for Health team, contact nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Volunteer to Career in General Practice

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As featured in previous episodes, Volunteer to Career is a fantastic enhanced volunteering experience. Volunteers have the chance to gain first hand experience in a health and care setting, receive career mentoring and make a difference at the same time.

In this episode we hear first hand from two people what it was like to get involved with Volunteer to Career. Ginette took part as a volunteer, and shares why she signed up and the value it offered. And we meet Laura Holder, the Practice Manager at Ludham and Stalham Green Surgeries who set up the programme that Ginette participated in.

To get in touch: nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

To find out more about Volunteer to Career visit: https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/volunteering-volunteer-to-career/

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Hosted by Sarah Briggs

Producer: Jules Alderson.

Drawing connections

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In the final episode of season one of Volunteering Discovery we are getting creative and meeting the team who support people to Drop in and Draw with the Norfolk Library and Information Service. We hear why the sessions provide much more than a space for artistic endeavours. Volunteer Alison shares why her creative skills aren't the only ones she puts to good use in the group. And Katherine explains why libraries are the perfect place for sessions like Drop in and Draw.

To find out more about volunteering with the Norfolk and Library Information Service visit https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/article/42712/Volunteering-at-Norfolk-libraries

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery team contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Overcoming obstacles

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery we meet the buggy service team at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn. Set up after receiving feedback, the buggy service volunteers make it easier to get from the car park to the hospital itself, taking away the difficulty of walking up one of the few hills in Norfolk. Volunteer Adrian explains why there is much more to the role than driving, and Jo shares the response from patients and visitors.

To find out more about volunteering at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn, visit https://www.qehkl.nhs.uk/volunteering.asp?s=careers&p=volunteering

To get in touch jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich volunteers for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Bonus episode: Volunteer to Career

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

Volunteer to Career is an enhanced volunteering programme which aims to support people interested in a health and care career to take their first steps. In this bonus episode, producer Jules speaks to Ben Chandler about Volunteer to Career. They discuss why the programme focuses on volunteering in primary care settings such as doctors surgeries and what a volunteer can expect from getting involved.

To find out more about Volunteer to Career visit https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/volunteering-volunteer-to-career/

Get in touch with Volunteering Discovery contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Unexpected pathways

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

Centre81 is a charity which enables adults with a disability to live full lives, never forgetting the need for 'fun.' We meet members of the team who found their connection and involvement with Centre81 taking unexpected turns. We'll hear from John who found himself working at Centre81 after a career in transport via volunteering with the team. Member John shares his journey from volunteer to member, whilst volunteer Lorraine emphasises how much being a part of the team means to her. We'll also hear from Julie why Centre81 are getting involved with Volunteer to Career, supporting people to take their first steps into a health and care career.

To find out more about Centre81 visit https://centre81.co.uk/

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery team contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Creating community

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

If you received a diagnosis of a rare illness, you might find yourself with many questions and the desire to speak to someone about what to expect. This was the case for Barbara Fountain, who after finding limited support for young people with tongue cancer, established a community of her own. This community has grown in to the global charity Young Tongues. In this episode we'll hear from Barbara and volunteer Nat about how being involved in Young Tongues makes a difference; supporting those with tongue cancer in sometimes unexpected ways.

To find out more about Young Tongues visit https://www.youngtonguesglobal.com/

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery team contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced by Hospital Radio Norwich for NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

The power of small gestures

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This is the second of our two episodes meeting the team at Priscilla Bacon Lodge near Norwich. We recommend you listen to the previous episode of Volunteering Discovery, 'Laughter and Learning' before tuning in to this one for background on the hospice.

In this episode we hear from volunteers who give their time for very personal interactions with patients at the hospice. Bob shares his experiences as a chaplaincy volunteer, providing a safe space to share worries and concerns. Volunteer Katy explains why sharing her artistic skills in bedside sessions with patients reinforces her belief in the 'power of small gestures'.

For more information about volunteering with Priscilla Bacon Lodge visit https://www.priscillabaconhospice.org.uk/priscillabaconlodge/

To get in touch about the podcast series, contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICS.

Laughter and learning

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:15:00 +0000

Today we meet members of the team at Priscilla Bacon Lodge a hospice on the outskirts of Norwich. Terry shares the unlikely path he took to volunteering at Priscilla Bacon Lodge, and what has kept him equally as enthusiastic over 20 years. We also hear from Ben who started volunteering to support his desire for a career in medicine, and learnt how to get to grips with something that many young people are reluctant to do - answering the phone to strangers!

To find our more about volunteering with Priscilla Bacon Lodge visit https://www.priscillabaconhospice.org.uk/priscillabaconlodge/

To get in touch with the Volunteering Discovery team contact jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICS.

Small steps, side by side

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery, we meet the team at Homestart Norfolk. Parenting certainly doesn't come easy to everyone and Homestart Norfolk volunteers can make a huge impact, supporting parents to make small changes which make a lasting difference. Liz gives background to how Homestart came in to being, and what support and training is offered to volunteers to equip them for home visits. Sarah shares her personal story of volunteering as a home visitor, shedding light on what it is like to volunteer alongside a family and see how their interactions lead to positive changes.

Discover more about Homestart Norfolk here https://homestartnorfolk.org/Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or contact us using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICS by Hospital Radio Norwich.

Not just a trustee

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery we meet the team at Healthwatch Norfolk. Healthwatch Norfolk play a key role in gathering feedback on local health and care services which lead to real change and volunteers are a crucial part of this work. We hear from volunteer Andrew, a former GP about what led him to get involved in more ways than one and how even volunteering on a rainy day can be a positive experience.

Find out more about Healthwatch Norfolk here https://healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk/

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB. Get in touch using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Digging, growing, healing

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery we meet members of the Family Action ESCAPE Project. We hear how getting involved at their community allotment offers the opportunity not only to learn about horticulture and take care of the plants, but also make connections in the community, encouraging personal growth and healing.

To find out more about the ESCAPE project visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/481728421874507/ and to learn more about Family Action visit https://family-action.org.uk/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or contact us using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICS by Hospital Radio Norwich.

More than money matters

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This episode of Volunteering Discovery takes a look behind the scenes of volunteering at Age UK Norfolk. Featuring insights from volunteers Matthew and Caron the episode explores the various services provided by Age UK Norfolk, including telephone befriending, Money Matters, and Power of Attorney roles. The episode explores the personal experiences and motivations of the volunteers, providing training insights and emphasizing the positive impact and personal fulfilment derived from volunteering.

To learn more about the work of Age UK Norfolk visit https://www.ageuk.org.uk/norfolk/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or contact us using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is produced for NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICS by Hospital Radio Norwich.

Companions in the clinic

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery, we meet members of the team at the Leg Ulcer Clinic at East Coast Community Healthcare. The podcast features insights from Karen, a community staff nurse, Rosie, Volunteer Service Manager at Voluntary Norfolk, and Denise, a dedicated volunteer. They discuss the tasks volunteers perform, the skills required, the impact on patient care, and how volunteers are integrated and supported within the clinic. The story highlights personal experiences, motivations for volunteering, and advice for other healthcare professionals considering involving volunteers in their services.

To find out more about volunteering with East Coast Community Healthcare visit https://www.ecch.org/about-us/volunteering/

Find the Volunteering Discovery page here https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or contact us using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Listening to save a life

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This episode of Volunteering Discovery delves into the role of volunteers in health and social care, specifically focusing on the Samaritans in King's Lynn. Volunteers Michael and Bridget share insights on the recruitment process, training, and the emotional impact of volunteering, emphasizing the importance of empathy and listening skills. The episode also highlights support systems for volunteers and the profound personal benefits of their work.

To find out more about volunteering with the Samaritans visit https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/volunteer/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page at https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or contact us using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Movement matters

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 00:15:00 +0000

In this episode, host Sarah introduces the Norfolk Community Health and Care Neuro Exercise Team to explore their support for individuals with neurological conditions. The team includes various specialists and volunteers such as Stephen, whose involvement creates a supportive environment for patients. The discussions highlight the benefits of community and volunteer support in motivating patients to stay active and socially engaged.

To find out more about volunteering with the Norfolk Community Health and Care team visit https://www.norfolkcommunityhealthandcare.nhs.uk/volunteering/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page here https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/ or get in touch using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Uno and afternoon tea

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This episode of Volunteering Discovery takes listeners behind the scenes of volunteering in health and social care in Norfolk and Waveney, focusing on About With Friends, a charity supporting people with learning disabilities. We hear from dedicated volunteer Su about her volunteering journey and staff member Abby tells us why volunteers are so important to the charity.

To discover more about the work About with Friends do visit https://aboutwithfriends.co.uk/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page here https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Or get in touch using jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Culture Therapy

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This episode explores the significant impact of volunteering

in health and social care through the experiences of individuals involved with

the Restoration Trust. It highlights how activities organised by the trust have

positively influenced mental well-being and provided a sense of community and

purpose for participants. Volunteer Adrian discusses his personal journey and

how volunteering has not only helped him but also enabled him to support

others in his new career.

Follow Volunteering Discovery now so that you never

miss an episode.

Discover more about the Restoration Trust https://restorationtrust.org.uk/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Get in touch jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich

production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

When weeding makes a difference

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 00:15:00 +0000

This episode discusses the impactful role of volunteers at East Anglian Children's Hospice, highlighting the experiences of volunteer Julia, and a family she has supported with her gardening skills. It emphasises the training and support that volunteers received, and that you don't need to be Monty Don to make a real difference to families.

Find out more about EACH www.each.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Get in touch: jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Scrabble in the emergency department

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 00:15:00 +0000

Attending the Emergency Department can be a stressful and uncomfortable time for anyone. For someone experiencing mental health challenges and it can be particularly difficult. In response to this challenge, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital has introduced volunteers to their Emergency department.

In this episode of Volunteering Discovery, we meet the team at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital responsible for this exciting project. They’ll tell us how they got the scheme off the ground and the difference they feel it makes whilst volunteer Sarah explains what it is like ‘on the ground.’

Hear how activities such as scrabble can make a difference, and why this role is perfect for students wanting to gain first hand experience in a clinical environment.

To find out more about volunteering at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital - https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/getting-involved/volunteer-with-us/become-a-volunteer/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Hosted by Sarah Briggs.

Interviews by Jules Alderson and Sarah Briggs.

Original theme music composed and performed by Philip Aldred.

Produced by Jules Alderson.

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

An introduction

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 00:15:00 +0000

Our first episode explores health and social care volunteering in Norfolk and Waveney, highlighting the Get Involved platform by Voluntary Norfolk for connecting volunteers with roles, and the significant contributions volunteers make at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. We meet Hospital Radio Norwich volunteer Irenee, who tells us all about her volunteering and the difference it makes for patients.

Find the Get Involved platform here https://www.getinvolvednorfolk.org.uk/

To find out more about volunteering at the Norfolk and

Norwich University Hospital - https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/getting-involved/volunteer-with-us/become-a-volunteer/

Learn more about Hospital Radio Norwich https://www.hospitalradionorwich.co.uk/

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Get in touch: jules.alderson@nhs.net

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.

Welcome to Volunteering Discovery

Tue, 21 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to 'Volunteering Discovery,' a podcast that aims to showcase various health and care volunteering opportunities beyond traditional roles. The series discusses the diverse activities volunteers engage in to support people's health and care in hospitals, communities, and homes. Volunteers and staff share their experiences, motivations, and the impact of their contributions.

Launching 9th July 2024. Follow now so that you never miss an episode.

Visit the Volunteering Discovery page https://improvinglivesnw.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-discovery-podcast/

Volunteering Discovery is a Hospital Radio Norwich production for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System.