Working with volunteers: key issues for gerontological nursing – Literature scan

Abstract

This article explores volunteering with older people through a study of the literature, mainly from the UK. The discussion is grouped around five themes: organization, support, sustainability, stereotypes and boundaries. The article discusses nurses' roles in working with volunteers and volunteer coordinators. It notes that older people are often volunteers themselves. A number of areas for future research are outlined.

Volunteers Supporting Older People in Formal Care Settings in England

“…The definition of the role of the volunteer is not fixed and includes notions that a volunteer in health and care services is principally a helper at the side of the trained professional, to “fill gaps” within services (Butler & Eckart, 2007), stretching to the belief that (if well trained) volunteers enhance professional services, may provide unique support (Cornes, 2007) and can also improve service quality (Manthorpe, 2007). Capitalizing on the unique contributions of volunteers may enable organizations to expand outreach activities (Hiatt & Jones, 2000) or offer personal one to one support (Wilson et al, 2005), whilst having a significant positive effect on volunteers’ own well-being (Greenfield & Marks, 2004).…”