Iona’s Volunteer to Career journey

Iona joined our Volunteer to Career programme as a ward helper on our Adult Inpatient Unit, hoping to gain hands-on experience that would bring her closer to her dream of becoming a clinical psychologist.

Reflecting on her journey, Iona said:

“I’ve had opportunities I never thought I’d get. Volunteer to Career has really boosted my confidence, helped me develop my personal skills, and given me an insight into healthcare from both the patients’ and professionals’ perspective.”

Over the past seven months, Iona has made the most of every opportunity the programme has offered. She’s spent time in Ambulatory Care – part of our Focus on Living Centre – where patients come for planned treatments like infusions and transfusions.

She’s also joined multidisciplinary team meetings and worked closely with nurses and clinical psychologists, gaining valuable insight into different areas of care.

Spending time with the clinical psychologists has been a real highlight for Iona.

She said:

“Learning from the clinical psychologists has been fantastic. They’ve given me so much advice and helped me understand their role. Seeing their impact on patients and families has made me even more determined to pursue this as a career.”

Another standout part of Iona’s experience has been connecting with patients during her shifts as a ward helper, as Iona explains:

“It’s lovely to meet patients at the Hospice. When you sit and chat with them, you get to know them – their humour, their personalities, and the little things that make them who they are.”

Jackie Haskey, our Clinical Volunteer to Career Mentor and Lymphoedema Specialist, has supported Iona throughout her journey. She said:

“It’s been wonderful watching Iona grow in confidence and develop her skills during her time on the programme. She’s really made the most of every opportunity, and it’s lovely to see her enthusiasm and how much she’s learned along the way.”

Susan Freeman, Head of Volunteering, explained how the programme is helping people like Iona take the next step in their careers:

“The Volunteer to Career programme is all about giving people opportunities to learn, try different roles – whether in care or retail – and discover what inspires them. It offers something for everyone, no matter their stage of life or starting point.”

For Iona, one of the biggest benefits has been the chance to explore different roles and discover what she enjoys most:

“Trying different roles has helped me figure out what I enjoy and where my strengths are. I’d definitely recommend Volunteer to Career – it’s helped me step outside my comfort zone in a good way, and I’ve learned so much from it.”

Inspired by Iona’s Story?

Volunteers like Iona make a huge difference at St Oswald’s Hospice. Through Volunteer to Career, we’re helping people gain experience, build confidence, and take their next steps – all while making a positive impact on patients and families.

Whether you’re interested in hands-on experience in a clinical setting, like Iona, or developing your skills in retail through our shops, the programme gives you the chance to learn, grow, and discover the path that’s right for you.

If Iona’s journey has inspired you, why not see where volunteering could take you?

Find out more about Volunteer to Career here.