The Emergency Department (ED) is one of the busiest and most emotionally charged parts of the hospital. Last year alone, Wellington Regional Hospital’s expert ED team cared for over 64,000 critically ill and injured people.
Amid the urgency and unpredictability, our ED volunteers provide quiet reassurance and practical support.
Why it matters
Whether it’s offering a warm blanket, a cup of tea or simply listening to someone who needs to talk, volunteers help reduce stress for patients and whānau, offering care and compassion when people are scared or in pain.
Meet Jonathan
Jonathan is a university student studying Accounting and Statistics who’s been volunteering in ED for over a year.
Jonathan’s small acts of kindness have a big impact:
Emergency Departments can be daunting. Sometimes all it takes is a warm drink, a snack or just someone to talk to, to help ease the stress. Even the smallest thing can make a difference. It’s about being there and showing care in the moments that matter.
Through volunteering, Jonathan told us that he has grown in confidence and empathy, and he’s gained a deeper understanding of the teamwork required to deliver excellent care.
I’ve learned to adapt to people’s needs and to bridge the gap between hospital staff and patients. Gratitude and empathy really do go a long way.
He’s one of over 40 ED volunteers, including two much loved Pet Therapy teams, who offer care and comfort to both patients and staff every week.
Dr Mark Hussey, Clinical Leader of the Emergency Department, says:
Wellington Hospitals Foundation volunteers are an integral part of Te Pae Tiaki - Wellington ED. From cups of tea to therapy dogs and keeping our staff break areas in order, they make a huge difference - we truly couldn’t do without them.