The transport service was established in 2021 and currently has three volunteers.

As the service grows in popularity, procurement operational services manager Andy Jackson is now looking to recruit between 15 and 25 volunteers to assist with a variety of tasks vital to supporting the NHS.

Volunteer drivers play a crucial role in ensuring patients and staff can move around the trust and community areas, assisting with:

• Providing transport for patients to and from outpatient appointments

• Delivering medications to patients’ homes

• Delivering test kits, dental deliveries and other essential supplies

• Helping hospital staff travel between trust sites in Tees Valley and beyond

Full training is provided, and the role offers excellent flexibility. As the service operates 24/7, seven days a week, volunteers can choose their shifts to fit around their schedules, with the option of committing to just one day per week.

Andy Jackson, who oversees the transport operations for the trust, said: “The beauty of volunteering with us is that it can be a stepping stone into a career with the NHS.

“Whether you’re looking to learn new skills and grow your CV or give back to the NHS - whatever your reason for wanting to volunteer, we would love to hear from you.”

If you have a full UK driving licence, a minimum of three years of driving experience and enjoy meeting and supporting patients and staff, the trust would love to hear from you.

Volunteers will receive all necessary equipment, including a vehicle, insurance, fuel, and a uniform, with all costs covered by the trust.

Julie Greaves, who is originally from Hull, decided to volunteer as a hospital driver to give back to the NHS after having four surgeries at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Fifteen months later, she hasn’t looked back and is encouraging others to consider volunteering themselves.

“I absolutely love being a volunteer driver,” she said. “I really enjoy getting out there and helping people – it’s a nice feeling and people do appreciate it.

“I especially like helping older people out who live rurally, they rely on us for things.

“If you have some spare time I’d definitely recommend signing up.”

If you would like to help out, even for just a few hours a week, please contact our therapeutic care team or the transport team for a friendly chat:

• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

• Phone: 01642 835863

Alternatively, you can contact Andy Jackson directly:

• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

• Phone: 01642 850850 Ext: 52297

Join us and make a real difference to your local community by supporting South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust as a volunteer driver today!