Matthew Leung, from East Renfrewshire, has been giving up around two hours of his own time every week to help out at the New Victoria Hospital.
Aspiring medic Matthew Leung(Image: NHSGGC)
A young volunteer at a Glasgow hospital, who provides companionship and practical support to patients, has told how the experience is helping him prepare for a career in medicine.
Aspiring medic Matthew Leung, from East Renfrewshire, has been giving up around two hours of his own time every week to help out at the New Victoria Hospital, alongside his sixth-year school studies.
The 18-year-old, who will begin studying medicine at Glasgow University 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.
And he says that the role has given him valuable experience into life in a clinical environment, while also allowing him to make a difference to the patients he helps.
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.”
Volunteering has helped Matthew gain valuable experience(Image: NHCGGC)
Part of Matthew’s role sees him spending 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 believes that these small interactions can have a meaningful impact.
Matthew added: “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.”
As well as 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.
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 a huge £3,000 for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity and is keen to use music to give back locally.
Matthew is looking to organise a future performance for patients and staff at the New Victoria Hospital and 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.
A range of voluntary roles are available across hospital and community settings. You can find out more online here.