August 3, 2026
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is seeking volunteers to provide comfort, companionship and reassurance to patients attending the Emergency Department (ED) at Antrim Area Hospital.
The new Emergency Department companion volunteer role has been developed to enhance patient experience by offering a supportive presence to people who may be feeling anxious or distressed while waiting for treatment or assessment.
Volunteers will fulfil a friendly and reassuring role for patients, taking time to listen and chat with them, their carers, and family members. They will also offer practical support, such as helping people access Wi-Fi or find their way around the department.
A range of sessions are available seven days a week, with volunteers asked to commit to at least one 3.5-hour session each week.
The Northern Trust’s Assistant Director of Nursing, Safety, Quality and Patient Experience, Katrina Kelly, said: “Attending an Emergency Department can often be a stressful and worrying experience for patients and their families. While our clinical teams are focused on providing the very best medical care, we know that a friendly conversation, a reassuring presence and simple acts of kindness can make a significant difference to someone’s experience.
“Our Emergency Department companion volunteers will play a unique and meaningful role within the hospital, and it is our hope that the time they spend talking with patients, listening to their concerns and helping reduce feelings of loneliness or anxiety will make a hugely positive impact during difficult times.
“We are looking for compassionate individuals who enjoy helping others and who can offer empathy, patience and understanding. Volunteering in this role is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to people when they need support the most.”
The Trust is particularly keen to hear from people who are caring, compassionate and calm, with strong listening and communication skills. Volunteers will receive training, along with ongoing support from the Volunteer Services team.
Prospective volunteers should be comfortable working in a busy hospital environment and will be required to complete an enhanced AccessNI check before commencing in the role.
To request an application pack please email volunteer.service@northerntrust.hscni.net.
Completed applications should be returned no later than 4pm on Friday 14 August.
Suitability conversations are due to take place Wednesday 19 August and Thursday 20 August in the Emergency Department at Antrim Area Hospital.