Volunteers needed at Antrim Area Hospital’s Renal Unit to support dialysis patients

Pictured are volunteers Eileen Black and Janet Potts.

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is calling for compassionate individuals to join its volunteer team at the Renal Unit in Antrim Area Hospital.

This initiative aims to provide vital support and companionship to dialysis patients, enhancing their experience during treatment.

With a closing date for applications set for 12 noon on Friday, 12 September 2025, the Trust is eager to recruit volunteers who can offer a listening ear and meaningful engagement.

A vital role for dialysis patients

Volunteering in the Renal Unit involves engaging directly with patients undergoing dialysis, a treatment that can be both physically and emotionally taxing.

Volunteers will provide company, facilitate activities, and offer conversation to help alleviate the challenges patients face during their sessions. The role is designed to make a tangible difference to patients’ well-being, helping to combat feelings of isolation and boredom.

Libby Weatherup, a psychological therapist with the Northern Trust, highlighted the importance of the volunteer role:

“Dialysis can be challenging for patients, both on a physical and psychological level, and research has shown that without meaningful activity patients can feel time is ‘wasted’. This can have a negative impact on mood, leading to increasing levels of anxiety and depression.”

She added, “If you are a kind and understanding person with good listening skills, your engagement and support could greatly enhance the experience of our patients and we would love to welcome you to the volunteer team.”

How to get involved

The Trust is seeking individuals with empathy, good communication skills, and a desire to make a difference. Volunteers will play a key role in creating a supportive environment, helping patients feel valued and connected during their treatment.

To apply, interested individuals should request an application pack by emailing volunteer.service@northerntrust.hscni.net.

The deadline for submissions is 12 noon on Friday, 12 September 2025.

Suitability conversations will be held in person at the Renal Unit on Monday, 15 September 2025, allowing applicants to discuss the role and its requirements with the team.

Successful applicants will need to complete mandatory training, including an online induction session via Microsoft Teams on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, from 7:30pm to 9:00pm.

Additionally, a safeguarding training session will take place at Ballymena Health & Care Centre on a selected date between Monday, 6 October and Wednesday, 8 October 2025.

Why volunteer?

Volunteering at the Renal Unit offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of dialysis patients.

The role not only supports patients’ emotional and psychological well-being but also provides volunteers with a rewarding experience, contributing to the community and the healthcare system.

The Northern Trust emphasises that no prior medical experience is required—just a compassionate nature and a willingness to listen. By dedicating a few hours of their time, volunteers can help transform the dialysis experience, making it more positive and engaging.

A call to action

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is urging local residents to consider this rewarding opportunity. With dialysis patients spending significant time in treatment, the presence of a friendly and supportive volunteer can make all the difference.

For those interested in joining the volunteer team, further details and application packs are available by contacting volunteer.service@northerntrust.hscni.net.

The Trust looks forward to welcoming new volunteers who are ready to bring kindness and support to the Renal Unit at Antrim Area Hospital.