Volunteering with InS:PIRE

Below is a film which looks at different aspects of volunteering from both the volunteer and the staff perspective. 

Volunteering with InS:PIRE: Maja

A chat with Maja, who volunteered with the programme during 2016/17

What led you to InS:PIRE?

I got the amazing opportunity to be a volunteer within the programme for two consecutive cohorts. What led me to the programme was the incredible team behind it and the outstanding service that they provide.

Why does the work of INs:PIRE matter to you?

The work of the program matters a great deal to me. Personally, I feel that post-ICU patients do not receive the proper recognition for the experiences that they’re going through. Patients deal with numerous health care problems and complications after being dismissed from ICU which can make their daily lives (and the transition back to this) difficult. Therefore, any assistance provided to aid in these difficulties to provide a smoother transition for the patients is something that should be a priority for everyone. Coming from a psychological perspective due to my knowledge in this from my undergraduate degree, I am aware that the mental health of patients and their families should also be taken into account and supported as this is essential for overall wellbeing. I recognise the steps that InS:PIRE takes to address both the physical and mental health of patients and their families, and how greatly this can improve their experiences within hospital. It is for these reasons that I have a personal investment in this programme, and have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering here.

 What do you get out of volunteering with InS:PIRE?

The experience volunteering with InS:PIRE has given me is invaluable. Working with the amazing multi-disciplinary team within the programme has given me some really helpful experiences and has taught me a multitude of things that I wouldn't find elsewhere. Not only has the team been absolutely wonderful and kind, but the patients who come to the cohorts have inspired me beyond belief. I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to talk with the patients every week and to witness their bravery as they continue to fight for a better future. Their ability to smile and be positive has truly inspired me and has given me a better and more positive outlook on my own life. I feel so lucky to have heard so many different stories and I look forward to those I will continue to hear in future volunteering roles.

Signposting using the ALISS information system (5 steps for signposting using ALISS)

ALISS is a Scotland wide index of local community sources of support. This short guide explains how to find sources of support for health and wellbeing in a particular area.

What Causes Wellness?  Sir Harry Burns

How can meaning and purpose contribute to one's wellbeing? Sir Harry Burns explores the concept of salutogenesis and the impact it has on the most disadvantaged members of our community.

What Matters to Me - a new vital sign   Dr Jason Leitch

The continual focus on improved technical cures and the next new machine or drug has been at the expense of simple care, empathy and understanding. If someone asked you “What matters to you?” how would you answer?

A study to explore the experiences of patient and family volunteers in a critical care environment

J. McPeake, R. Struthers, R. Crawford, H. Devine, P. Mactavish, T. Quasim

http://ccforum.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13054-016-1208-6#Sec1369

The InS:PIRE Programme intervention

You might also find it helpful to view the series of films on the staff page, outlining the different components of the programme or the films on the patients and families page showing cohort participants discussing their experiences