Episode 26

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Published on:

12th Jan 2026

Volunteering Without Barriers

This episode of Volunteering Discovery explores how James Paget University Hospital creates inclusive volunteering opportunities. Volunteer Coordinator John Gilligan shares how the team supports people with learning disabilities through flexible training and tailored roles.

We also hear from Casey and Adam, two volunteers who talk about why they got involved, the challenges they overcame, and the difference volunteering makes for patients and staff.

If you’re curious about volunteering in health and social care—or how to make it accessible—this episode is full of practical tips and inspiring stories.

To find out more about volunteering at the James Paget University Hospital Volunteer | James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Contact the Volunteering Discovery team: nwicb.volunteering@nhs.net

Produced for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System by Hospital Radio Norwich.

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About the Podcast

Volunteering Discovery
All about volunteering in health and care
Volunteering Discovery takes you behind the scenes, exploring how volunteers make a real difference in health and care across Norfolk and Waveney. Episodes dive deep into inspiring volunteer stories, expert interviews, and practical advice on building successful volunteering programmes. From planning and evaluation frameworks to improving patient experience and boosting community wellbeing, we uncover what it takes to create impactful initiatives.

Whether you’re a volunteer looking to make a bigger impact, a healthcare leader designing volunteer strategies, or simply curious about the benefits of volunteering in health services, this series offer insights, best practices, and real-world examples.

Tune in for tips on recruiting and supporting volunteers, measuring outcomes, and innovative approaches to health volunteering. Or maybe get some ideas on how to get involved yourself!

About your host

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Jules Alderson