Volunteering has proven to be a transformative journey for Matthew Claridge, whose dedication and hard work have led to a rewarding career in healthcare.
Starting as a volunteer at RDaSH in February 2024, Matthew progressed to a full time role as an occupational therapy assistant at the trust’s Great Oaks unit in Scunthorpe.
Matthew’s passion for understanding human behaviour, sparked during his A-level psychology studies, motivated him to seek practical experience in the NHS.
Volunteering in the trust’s Patient Flow team gave him invaluable insights into patient care, inpatient logistics, and the critical role of multi-disciplinary teamwork. These experiences equipped him with the skills and knowledge to stand out in a competitive field. “It feels surreal to have progressed from volunteering to a full-time role,” said Matthew.
“I love connecting with patients, helping them rediscover hobbies, and seeing their progress from admission to discharge. Volunteering gave me the confidence, experience, and network I needed to take the next step in my career. I encourage anyone considering volunteering to go for it. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience.”
RDaSH offers flexible volunteering opportunities that provide practical experience and networking connections for people looking to develop their careers in healthcare.
If you are interested in volunteering at the trust, please get in touch with the Voluntary Services team by emailing rdash.volunteering@nhs.net.
Volunteering is more than just giving back. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and build a brighter future. Follow Matthew’s inspiring example and start your journey today.
Published: February 21, 2025
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