Volunteer with us
Make a difference. Make someone’s day. Make Bolton even better.
Volunteering at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust is a brilliant way to give something back to your community, meet new people, and make a real impact on the experience of our patients and visitors.
Our volunteers help create the warm, friendly and supportive atmosphere we’re known for, and we simply couldn’t do it without you.
Whether you’re welcoming someone at the door, offering a reassuring chat, or helping patients navigate the hospital, every moment you give helps someone feel cared for, supported and less alone.
Why volunteer with us?
People choose to volunteer with us for all sorts of reasons. To support the NHS, build confidence, meet new people, gain experience, or simply because helping others feels good.
Whatever brings you to us, you’ll quickly become part of a caring, committed team all working together to give the people of Bolton the best care possible.
Volunteering is:
✔ Rewarding
You’ll see the difference you make, every shift.
✔ Flexible
Just 4 hours a week with a minimum 6‑month commitment.
✔ Supportive
You’ll receive an induction, friendly supervision, and full training including the National Volunteer Certificate to help you feel confident in your role.
✔ Welcoming
We value our volunteers enormously — you’re part of the team, and part of what makes Bolton so special.
What you can do as a volunteer
There are many ways to get involved, depending on your interests:
Hospital guides
A warm hello goes a long way. You’ll welcome patients and visitors, help them find their way, and make the hospital feel friendly and easy to navigate.
Ward helpers
Supporting non‑clinical tasks on our wards; offering drinks, helping with mealtimes, chatting with patients or getting involved in simple activities that brighten someone’s day.
Emergency Department helpers
Offering reassurance, comfort and help with way‑finding in a busy environment where a kind presence makes a huge difference.
Outpatients & Reception Support
Meeting and greeting, helping patients to the right department, and being a friendly point of contact during their visit.
Wherever you volunteer, you’ll be helping our staff provide the very best care.
Who can volunteer?
Anyone with a friendly attitude and a desire to help.
You don’t need healthcare experience; just kindness, reliability and a professional, caring approach. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life and aim to build a team that reflects our diverse community.
Volunteer opportunities – when and where they’re advertised
We receive a lot of interest in volunteering, so opportunities aren’t always available.
When we are actively recruiting volunteers, all available roles will be advertised on our recruitment pages. This ensures everyone has a fair chance to apply.
If there aren’t any roles listed right now, please check back, new opportunities are added throughout the year depending on service needs.
Ready to join us when opportunities open?
Volunteering with us might be one of the most rewarding things you ever do.
If you see a role that suits you on our recruitment pages, we’d love you to apply and become part of our Bolton family.
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