Two dedicated volunteers at Lightburn Hospital are encouraging others to join them in bringing comfort, conversation and companionship to patients on the wards.
Sophia Samuel (left) began volunteering in October 2024, while Mary Hirshall (right) has been part of NHSGGC’s volunteering community since 2018. Both say the experience has been deeply rewarding, not just for patients, but for themselves too.
Sophia, who also works as a carer and support worker, was inspired to volunteer after seeing people in care settings missing social interaction from family and friends.
“Some of them don’t have people to talk with, and you just go and fill in that gap,” she said. “It’s something irreplaceable. I love the smile that comes out of their face. They hope to see you next time.”
Mary, who previously volunteered at Glasgow Royal Infirmary before moving to Lightburn, says the role brings structure and meaning to her day.
“It gets me out of the house for a couple of hours. I love the patients,” she said. “A lot of them like a wee game of dominoes, and it really helps them through the day.”
From playing draughts to reminiscing with former Scots Guards and patients in their 90s, both volunteers say the stories they hear are remarkable.
“These people have history. They had lives,” Mary explained. “It’s lovely sitting with them and hearing what they did before they were admitted.”
Sophia agrees: “For me, it’s about sowing seeds. When I’m older, I hope people will also be there to comfort me. So I just give what I can now.”
Both volunteers describe Lightburn as a warm, welcoming hospital that values and supports volunteers.
“The atmosphere is great, and the staff are really helpful,” said Mary. “We could definitely be doing with more volunteers.”
Fiona Smith, AHP Director and NHSGGC’s Strategic Lead for Volunteering, said: “Volunteers like Sophia and Mary play a vital role in supporting patients and staff at Lightburn Hospital.
“We are actively looking for people from all walks of life to volunteer, and even a few hours a week can make a huge difference.”
Becoming a volunteer is a way to give back to the community while gaining new skills, confidence and friendships.
For more information on how to become a volunteer — and to apply — visit:
https://www.nhsggc.scot/staff-recruitment/volunteering/.
