The volunteer making a difference one chat at a time

For almost a decade, Paul Hammond has been a friendly face and reassuring presence for patients, visitors and staff at Fiona Stanley Hospital.

Volunteering six days a week, Paul is often one of the first faces patients see when they arrive.

From greeting people at the main reception to escorting patients to appointments or popping in for chats with patients on the wards, Paul’s focus is always the same, ensuring patients, especially those on their own, feel supported and a little less alone during what can be a stressful time.

“The hospital can be overwhelming for people,” Paul said.

“Most people are here because they are unwell.

“If you can help them, find their way or just stop for a chat, it can make a real difference.”

Paul has volunteered across many areas of the hospital, including emergency and inpatient wards.

He supports visitors, checks in on patients and takes the time to help people settle in once they reach the ward, often with a friendly conversation along the way.

Paul describes volunteering as being “like oil on a squeaky wheel”, and amongst the hospital’s volunteering crew he is known for quietly helping things run smoothly behind the scenes.

His calm manner, quick thinking and gentle sense of humour have made him a trusted and familiar go‑to person on shift, as well as a valued mentor for new volunteers finding their feet.

Some of Paul’s most meaningful moments have come from the connections he has built with patients.

He recalls one woman he visited every day during a long hospital stay, and another who recently returned as an inpatient and asked specifically to see him again.

“Sometimes people just need someone to talk to,” he said.

“I’ve even had patients tell me our chats helped their blood pressure, hearing people’s stories is one of the things I love most about volunteering.”

Paul’s approach is shaped by personal experience. After becoming seriously unwell with sepsis and undergoing heart surgery, he spent some time in the hospital as a patient himself.

“The staff were incredible,” he said.

“Their kindness really stuck with me and made me determined to give back.”

Now back on shift and also involved in the Fremantle Hospital Care by Design Consumer Advisory Committee, Paul continues to make a difference one conversation at a time.

This year’s National Volunteer Week (external site) theme is 'Your Year to Volunteer' and Paul couldn’t agree more.

“If you want something worthwhile to do,” he said, “volunteering is absolutely it.”

For patients and staff alike, Paul’s warmth, humour and steady presence show just how powerful a friendly face can be.

Think this could be your year to volunteer? Join our volunteering team (external site) across Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group today!

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