Ward Visitor

We are looking for warm friendly people with good communication skills who are prepared to spend time explaining to patients what hospital radio (Radio Cherwell) has to offer and give them a Listening News, a free guide to our programmes.

Many patients find it difficult to use or have not been told about the bed head radio system and may need help. Staff may not be aware there is a hospital radio; the Ward Visitor will help fulfill this important role.

To apply to be a Ward Visitor the applicant must be at least 16 years of age and share our commitment to making patients' stay in hospital a little easier. We can offer:-

• Full training and support along with an item of corporate clothing
• Ward Visitors will be allocated a group of wards to cover so that a rapport can be built with the patients and staff
• Flexibility, wards can be visited on days and times to suit the Ward Visitor, providing any restrictions the ward staff may have are adhered to
• Work with our Record Requests presenters who broadcast every evening to play that important record which brings a smile to the faces of our listeners
• Explore opportunities for publicising Radio Cherwell on the wards
• A Ward Visitor is a Radio Cherwell free membership class, with access to the studio at the Churchill Hospital and will be most welcome at all Radio Cherwell functions
• Ward Visitors can also take up broadcasting opportunities at a later stage if they wish
• CRB and health checks will have to be completed before starting. This can typically take around four weeks.

How To Become A Ward Visitor Member

(Please read these notes before completing the on line application form at the foot of this page)

How to apply

1. We ask all applicants to fill out and return the online application form.
2. The Membership Secretary will invite you to attend a brief, informal meeting at our studios. Normally we will be able to let you know if you are suitable by the end of the interview.

If accepted you will be asked to:

1. CRB - Fill in a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) form which can be accessed online at our studio. Please refer to the CRB web site for further information: http://www.crb.gov.uk/
2. Health Declaration - The hospital authorities also ask all volunteers to fill in a health declaration form, one will be provided at the interview.
3. Completed & return the forms. (Please note Ward Visitors do not pay a registration or a membership fee)

Getting Started

Once we get satisfactory CRB clearance, the Membership Secretary will invite you to the studio for an induction session, and make arrangements for you to work initially with one or more of our members.

Prospective, Ward Visitor Membership

Prospective Ward Visitor Membership is for a 6-month period during which you will have the opportunity to get to know us, find out about hospital radio. Training and support will be given.

Full Ward Visitor Membership

Full Ward Visitor membership will be offered to all Prospective Ward Visitor Members who meet our expectations(s) within 6 months. As a full member you will be able to vote at meetings and stand on the committee.

How much of my time do I need to commit?

As a Ward Visitor (Prospective Member) a minimum commitment of 1 hour a week or fortnight, at a time to suit you.

What is the difference between Ward Visitor and ordinary Membership?

A Ward Visitor does not pay a joining fee or an annual Membership Fee and is is not normally entitled to use the studio equipment or to broadcast programmes.

Can a Ward Visitor member become an ordinary Member?

Yes if the annual membership fee is paid when it becomes due each year.

If you require any more information please contact:
Membership Secretary,
Radio Cherwell, Churchill Hospital,
Old Road, Headington, Oxford. OX3 7LJ

Tel: 01865 225522
E-mail: membership@radiocherwell.com