Rupak is a member of Patient and Public Panel (PPP)
When did you become a panel member?
I became a panel member in July 2022
Explain what you do as a panel member?
As a PPP member, I listen to NHS staff explain more about what they do, ask questions and get answers to specific questions. They put together a presentations explaining in detail what that service does and how it can affect me, a regular user of NHS Services. As I see it, the panels are learning tool on the NHS
I’ve been involved in quite a few projects ranging from Quality Improvement Changing a Culture, Public Health awareness videos for Patient Transport Service (PTS) crews, Freedom to Speak Up, Race Equality Network, sessions regarding the NHS’ PTS Service to name a few. All of which I have a vested interest in or am a frequent user of that particular service.
What made you want to be a panel member?
As I became more and more ill and totally wheelchair bound, I have become more and more reliant on the NHS. Ranging from my Neurologist to even being able to get to my appointments I mainly joined PPP to be able to engage with some of the staff, learn more about everything they do, not just as a user of these services but also as a fan and supporter and I feel the PPP is a fantastic forum for this. I do not attend every single session just the sessions where they discuss a topic or a department I either use or have a vested interest in.
What is the best part of being a volunteer?
You meet some fantastic people, not just the staff of the organisation but also other volunteers and you get to have a small social circle as well as help an organisation that needs your help. If I can help them by giving up just a little bit of my time, I am more than happy to do that.
***
Jo is one of welfare van volunteers.
When did you become a Welfare Van volunteer?
I became a welfare van volunteer in September 2022.
Explain what you do?
As a welfare van volunteer I drive between two hospitals in the area and I have the van stocked up with hot and cold refreshments and snacks. I am recognised straight away by the crews and they know they can at least grab a drink or something to eat whilst they are at A&E and I am always available for a chat which has become my favourite part of volunteering.
What made you want to volunteer?
I wanted to volunteer for NWAS as I was aware that the ambulance service along with other NHS providers had been under increasing pressures especially since COVID and wanted to do what I could to show my appreciation for such a wonderful service.
What is the best part of being a volunteer?
For me personally, I feel I have got more out of volunteering than I have put in as the people I have met are all amazing and genuinely appreciate that cuppa and a few minutes of conversation.