18th November 2019
The Southern Trust has been working with a service user with sensory difficulties to improve the visibility of its hospital volunteers.
‘Here to Help’ volunteers are based in the foyer of both Daisy Hill and Craigavon Area Hospital and are available to help visitors find their way and give directions.The Trust introduced bright yellow fleeces for the helpers following feedback from Leslie Massey who is sensory impaired and uses a guide dog.
Gerardette McVeigh, Volunteer Co-Coordinator explained: “We understand that it can be difficult for anyone to find the right department in our busy hospitals and this can be a particular challenge for those with hearing or visual impairment.
“We also want to make sure that everyone using our services can access them easily and so we really appreciate the help of Les who highlighted a simple change that could improve the experience of people with sensory difficulties.
“I would also like to thank our Sensory Disability Team who did a great job working with Les and making his suggestion a reality.”
Mr Massey added: “I suggested yellow as it is a bright colour and the volunteers can easily be seen as you enter the hospital and volunteer also written across the back of the fleece.
“I have really enjoyed getting involved and making a difference to improve the experience for other people with sensory difficulties.”