Staff Spotlight: Meet Volunteer Jane
In her 12 months as a volunteer guide at the Women’s and Children’s Health Network, Jane has helped many families navigate their way to appointments and eased their stress in what can often be an overwhelming time.
Jane is one of hundreds of volunteers dedicated to helping out across the Network. We sat down with her to get a better idea about her time as a volunteer.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital?
Feeling valued and helping others is my favourite part about volunteering here. It’s very rewarding and you get a lot of positive feedback being a guide.
How does it feel to help families visiting the hospital?
Often people are extremely stressed when they come into hospital and not knowing where to go. Just to have someone who can take them there – I often find that really rewarding.
Directing is fine for some people, but it’s amazing the number of people when you say I can take you, they say “Oh this is fantastic. Thank you so much.” That part is really great.
What does volunteering bring to your life?
A sense of being part of the community and giving back. A way of meeting new people and using the skills that I have. I used to be a teacher, so it seemed like a natural progression to do something like this.
Tell us more about your time as a teacher.
Well I was a teacher for 45 years and a special ed teacher for 30 of them, so I find it really rewarding when kids with disabilities come through and to be able to help them and their families.
How does it feel to be back in the hospital after the COVID-19 restrictions?
It feels great! After 6 months out I thought I would have forgotten a few things, but it’s been a seamless return and we’re all straight back into it.
What did you do in your time away from the hospital?
I got two new dogs in the recent COVID restrictions, so I love taking them for a lot of walks. My favourite spots are Unley Oval and the wetlands at Victoria Park Racecourse. I also do a lot of knitting, caring for my elderly mum and going to the gym.
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News update: We are pleased to announce that in just 2 weeks since returning, over 1000 visitors to the WCH have asked for assistance from our volunteer guides!
Did you know that of the 82 Women’s and Children’s Health Network volunteers who recently responded to our Volunteer Wellbeing Survey, 100% said they would recommend the Women’s and Children’s Health Network.
Volunteer with us! Find out more and enquire to become a volunteer by visiting Volunteers.