'I became acutely aware of the challenges faced by underrepresented communities': Healthwatch Greenwich volunteer Dylan

Volunteering has always held a special place in my heart as a means to give back to the community and make a positive impact. During my time as a volunteer at Healthwatch Greenwich, an independent health and social care champion, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute to the well-being of the Royal Borough of Greenwich community. After being an intern for a month, I have reflected on my enriching experience and the personal growth I gained while working with Healthwatch Greenwich. 

When I first came across Healthwatch Greenwich, I was captivated by their mission to empower service users to influence local health and social care services. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, I was very excited to intern at Healthwatch Greenwich. One of the most rewarding aspects of my volunteer experience was the chance to connect with members of the community. Through conducting surveys, helping patients at Clover Health Centre, and participating in co production research projects, I had the privilege of listening to people's stories and concerns about health and social care services. This direct engagement taught me the importance of empathy and active listening, enabling me to better understand individuals' experiences and advocate on their behalf.

Healthwatch Greenwich strongly emphasises the need for patient-centred care, and this principle resonated deeply with me. I collaborated with my coworker Jocelyn to gather feedback from service users, identifying gaps and areas for improvement within the local healthcare system. Our surveys are to be shared with policymakers and service providers, serving as a catalyst for positive change. Witnessing the impact of our work, especially at Clover Health Centre, reaffirmed the significance of amplifying patient voices and ensuring their needs are met.

During my time at Healthwatch Greenwich, I became acutely aware of the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. One of the most meaningful experiences was working with Jahan in an in depth project on maternity care disparities for immigrants and people of colour. This experience shed light on the systemic inequalities in maternity care and inspired me to continue advocating for equitable reproductive health. 

Beyond these experiences, my volunteer journey fostered personal growth and development. Healthwatch Greenwich provided valuable training opportunities, equipping me with skills in research, communication, and project management. Working alongside my supervisor Kiki and coworker Jocelyn allowed me to appreciate different perspectives and build a strong sense of teamwork. These experiences enhanced my problem-solving abilities and nurtured my passion for equitable healthcare. 

My time as a volunteer at Healthwatch Greenwich has been an immensely transformative experience. Through engaging with the community, promoting patient-centred care, advocating for underrepresented populations, and experiencing personal growth, I have come to understand the power of volunteerism and the potential to effect positive change in the realm of healthcare. Healthwatch Greenwich has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and social responsibility. Moving forward, I am inspired to continue striving for equitable and accessible healthcare and working towards building a healthier and more inclusive society.