A young volunteer who provides companionship and practical support to hospital patients has told how the experience is helping prepare him for a future career in medicine.
Matthew Leung, 18, from East Renfrewshire, volunteers for around two hours each week at the New Victoria Hospital in Glasgow, where he has been balancing his role alongside his sixth-year school studies.
Matthew, who will begin studying medicine at the University of Glasgow after the summer, started volunteering in August and now splits his time between welcoming visitors at the hospital’s main entrance and supporting patients on Ward 1, an older people’s ward.
He said the role has given him valuable insight into life in a clinical environment, while also allowing him to make a meaningful difference to patients’ experiences.
Matthew said: “I have a free double period on a Thursday and I wanted to do something worthwhile with the time. I want to work in healthcare, so this felt like a really good opportunity.
“I really love this role. Every day is a bit different and you’re meeting lots of different people. I’ve learned so much from doing it and gained so much experience.”
As part of his volunteering, Matthew spends time chatting with patients, helping with small tasks such as making tea or providing snacks, and offering companionship to those who may be feeling isolated during their stay in hospital.
He spoke about the impact these small interactions can have.
Matthew said: “For some patients, they are in hospital for a long time and away from home and their families, which can be quite lonely, so I and the other volunteers do what we can to provide some company.
“One of the patients asks me to read her Bible to her as the text is too small. It’s small things like that that can make a difference to someone’s day.”
Alongside supporting patients, Matthew has also valued the opportunity to observe healthcare staff at work and learn more about the skills required in medical careers.
He added: “I’m going on to study medicine, so I’ve enjoyed getting experience of a ward environment. It has been really good to observe the nurses and doctors and see the collection of skills and qualities they have.”
Matthew shared his story as NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde celebrates Volunteers’ Week, recognising the vital contribution volunteers make to supporting patients, families and staff across its sites.
Outside the hospital, Matthew is also an accomplished musician, playing both piano and percussion as part of a 13-piece chamber orchestra with friends from school.
The group has already raised £3,000 for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity and is keen to use music to give back locally.
Matthew hopes to organise a future performance for patients and staff at the New Victoria Hospital.
Looking ahead, he is keen to continue volunteering even after starting university.
He said: “I would like to keep doing this, but I will have to check my new timetable. Hopefully I’ll be in a position to carry on because I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Volunteers play a key role across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, providing support, comfort and companionship to patients in a variety of settings.
Professor Angela Wallace, Executive Nurse Director and Executive Lead for Volunteering at NHSGGC, said: “Our volunteers are an invaluable part of our teams, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do.
“They support people in ways that are both practical and deeply human – offering time, compassion and connection, which are so important in healthcare settings.
“On behalf of everyone at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, I would like to thank our volunteers for their dedication and commitment as part of our wider NHSGGC family.”
Volunteers’ Week is also an opportunity to encourage others to get involved and join the volunteering community within NHSGGC.
With a range of roles available across hospital and community settings, even a few hours each week can have a meaningful impact, not only for those receiving support, but for volunteers themselves.
To find out more about volunteering with NHSGGC, go to Volunteering with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde – NHSGGC
