Finding my path through volunteering - Winnie's journey with Healthwatch
I first learned about Healthwatch through one of my university lecturers, who recommended it as an excellent volunteering opportunity for students interested in health and social care. What immediately appealed to me was the opportunity to gain practical experience while contributing to something truly meaningful within the community. The application process itself was straightforward and welcoming. During the process, I spoke with Agne, who was extremely supportive and helpful in matching my interests and role preferences with the opportunities and services Healthwatch provides. That initial experience already left me with a very positive impression of the organisation and its people-centred approach.
Since becoming a Healthwatch Champion, I have had the chance to participate in a range of community outreach activities. I have supported Healthwatch pop-up events, assisted with data entry and feedback collection, and gained experience communicating with members of the public from a variety of backgrounds. Improving health and social care services goes beyond policies, targets, and clinical settings. At the centre of effective change is real insight from the people using these services every day, and that is exactly where Healthwatch makes an impact.
Another highlight of my volunteering experience was taking part in Enter and View visits to various health centres, which provided valuable insight into how services are delivered and how service users experience care in different settings. These visits enhanced my observation, communication, and analytical skills, while helping me develop a greater understanding of service quality, patient-centred care, and the importance of gathering evidence-based feedback.
Looking back, joining Healthwatch has been one of the most valuable decisions I have made during my university journey. Through volunteering, I gained practical skills, confidence, and exposure to different areas of the sector, but most importantly, I gained clarity about my future. With the support and encouragement of my supervisor, Agne, who recognised my potential and provided a strong professional reference, I was able to secure a paid role as a Youth Development Worker at Switch, a neighbouring organisation within the Lifeline group. This opportunity marked a significant milestone in my professional journey. What began as a search for work experience evolved into a clear career direction, helping me discover a genuine passion for youth development and supporting young people to reach their potential. Healthwatch did not just help me build my CV—it helped me find my path.
If there is one thing my journey has taught me, it is that you do not need to have everything figured out from the start. Sometimes, the right opportunity can provide the experience, confidence, and guidance needed to discover your path. Volunteering with Healthwatch opened doors I never expected, connected me with inspiring people, and ultimately helped me find a career direction that genuinely excites me. For anyone considering volunteering, my advice would be simple: take the opportunity. You never know where it might lead, but the skills, connections, and personal growth you gain along the way can be truly life-changing.
