We're shining a spotlight on Zainab Ali who joined CHFT as a volunteer earlier this year. She became a volunteer to build her social skills and confidence in support of her professional development.

For eight months, Zainab worked in HRI's main entrance as a Meet and Greet Volunteer, warmly supporting patients, visitors and carers as they enter our hospital. From easing anxieties and giving clear directions, to supporting patients who required mobility assistance, Zainab helped make a real difference every single day.

Thanks to the experience she gained from volunteering, Zainab has recently started a Clinical Apprenticeship, working as a Healthcare Support Worker on the Acute Floor at HRI.

In a wonderful full-circle moment, Zainab was recently seen on the Acute Floor at HRI supporting a brand-new volunteer. Zaniab said: "I recognised the yellow t-shirt first! It was a really busy day on the ward and I remembered what it was like on my first day as a volunteer, I wanted to help make it a bit easier for her, so I helped show her around the ward and introduced her to a few of the patients."

Speaking about her experience as a volunteer Zainab continued: "The people I worked with whilst I was a volunteer really took me under their wings - I was so nervous my first week, but they really helped me. My confidence definitely grew whilst volunteering, simply because you have to speak to so many new people each week. I find it's easier for me to approach patients in my new job, thanks to my volunteering role.

"Overall, my favourite thing about being a volunteer was seeing how grateful people were after I helped them, it would always make my day.

"If anyone was thinking of volunteering, I'd say definitely to go for it - you get so much experience, plus if you're thinking of a career in healthcare it's a great way of teaching you how to interact with patients."

Volunteering Services Lead, Stevie Cheesman, said: "Zainab’s journey is a perfect example of how volunteering can open doors and create opportunities. Through the gift of giving, magic really can happen.

"Zainab, you truly deserve this success, and we wish you every luck with your future career goals!"