Meet our volunteers: Hello my name is… Rachael
Posted 18th September 2020
Get to know Rachael
Q. Introduce yourself…
A. #Hellomynameis… Rachael, I am 22 years old and I am from Liverpool! I have recently graduated from The University of Manchester, studying Biomedical Sciences with German. I am really passionate about helping others and I would now like to study Medicine and pursue my dream of becoming a doctor!
Q. Why did you choose to volunteer at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool?
A. During my time at university, I had the privilege of joining the Department of Experimental
Paediatric Oncology in Cologne, Germany for 10 months and in my final year I also worked on a research project studying breast cancer. These experiences really helped me develop a broader perspective of the impact that cancer can have upon people and I really wanted the opportunity to be able to make a difference to people with cancer more directly, so I decided to volunteer at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre - Liverpool.
Volunteering here has given me a great insight into the importance of bedside care and the opportunity to offer support to patients and their families during what may be a very distressing time in their lives. I will be able to carry what I have learned from my volunteering experience forward with me into my career and beyond.
Q. How do you think your role as a volunteer will contribute to improving patient care?
A. Volunteers have the power to brighten the day of patients, visitors and staff. Whether it be
something as simple as walking a patient to the correct department for their appointment, helping staff make beds or making a cup of tea for a patient and being a friendly face that they can chat to! All of these acts of kindness can help make patients’ experiences as smooth and as positive as possible.
Q. How has volunteering at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool helped you gain employment?
A. Volunteering at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool has helped me develop invaluable skills that I can confidently translate to my new role as a Theatre Support Worker.
First and foremost volunteering has fuelled my passion for helping people, which is integral to a role in healthcare. I have learned how incredibly rewarding it is to go above and beyond for a patient and see the positive impact you can have on their day. It has taught me the sensitive nature of patient contact and confidentiality which applies to my new role as a Theatre Support Worker. It has also taught me the importance of remaining enthusiastic and looking towards the positives during emotionally challenging times. Through volunteering on the wards, I have learned how to chat with patients and visitors confidently and how to help them feel more at ease during times of distress.
Did you enjoy meeting Rachael? Well, we have lots of other volunteers you can meet, like Melissa and Melanie.
