Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT) is inviting kind, compassionate individuals to join us as Meal Mates Volunteers, a rewarding new role supporting patients during one of the most important parts of their day: mealtimes.
Roles are available at St James’s Hospital, Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) and Chapel Allerton Hospital.
We are currently recruiting volunteers to provide friendly support to patients during mealtimes. This role is all about offering practical help, conversation and companionship, helping to make mealtimes more enjoyable and dignified, especially for those patients who may not have regular visitors.
Why this role matters
Good nutrition and hydration are essential to recovery. Research shows they can reduce hospital stays, prevent complications, and significantly improve overall patient wellbeing. Mealtimes are also an opportunity for social connection and emotional support—something many patients truly value.
Volunteer testimonial
Volunteer Briony said: “I would definitely recommend LTHT as a great place to volunteer. The Voluntary Services Team is caring, understanding, respectful, supportive, and encouraging. My fellow volunteers are friendly team players, and there are many opportunities to explore. Plus, your voice is always heard,” said a current Volunteer.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Meal Mates Volunteer, you will:
- Demonstrate excellent communication skills, creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere for patients.
- Be punctual and dependable, ensuring patients can rely on your presence during mealtimes.
- Help patients prepare for meals, such as supporting with handwashing and positioning trays and water jugs so they are within easy reach.
- Engage patients in friendly conversation and offer encouragement while they eat.
- Ensure food, drinks, and utensils are accessible and ready to use.
- Provide simple assistance such as cutting food or pouring drinks.
- Support with light post-meal routines, such as clearing trays away and setting out toothbrushes.
Please note: This is a volunteering role. Volunteers will not feed patients, administer medications, or provide personal or clinical care. As the role is based in a clinical setting, it’s important to follow clinical guidance such as good hand hygiene at all times.
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for individuals who are friendly, patient, and empathetic, with the confidence to communicate clearly and positively with patients and staff. Volunteers should be reliable and able to commit to one two-hour shift per week, for a minimum of six months. You must be aged 18 or over. No prior hospital experience is needed, just a genuine desire to make a difference.
What you’ll gain
As a Meal Mates Volunteer, you’ll receive full training including food safety, dementia awareness, and dysphagia along with a uniform and ID badge. You’ll receive ongoing support from your ward team and the Voluntary Services team. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
You’ll also be invited to volunteer events, have access to wellbeing resources, and receive references to support future job or education applications. Most importantly, you’ll be a valued part of the LTHT volunteering team, helping deliver care in line with The Leeds Way Values, always putting patients first.
How to Apply
Ready to make a difference? Visit our Volunteering opportunities website page for more information.
Join us in making a real difference to our patients.