A host of exciting volunteering opportunities are available to help boost the wellbeing of people receiving mental health care across the Black Country.

Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is on the lookout for volunteers to bring their skills to help out with activities for patients spending time in hospital.

The Trust is looking for volunteers with gardening skills to assist with activities at Dorothy Pattison Hospital in Walsall, as well as volunteers with a Level 2 gym instructor qualification to help patients access gym facilities at Dorothy Pattison Hospital, Hallam Street Hospital in West Bromwich and Penn Hospital in Wolverhampton.

Anyone who has skills to share that would benefit patients, such as in music or yoga, are also encouraged to apply.

It comes as the Trust has launched a dedicated volunteering team to support people who want to give back to their community in a friendly and welcoming environment.

As well as sharing their skills and passions to boost the wellbeing of patients, volunteering with the Trust is way to develop personal and professional goals and boost a CV.

Full training and induction is provided and the volunteering team will work with participants to create a plan for their volunteering goals. The unpaid roles are flexible to fit around volunteer availability and the needs of the service.

Rebecca Craddock, volunteer co-ordinator at BCHFT, said: “Activities such as gardening, fitness and music are a great addition to helping patients in a therapeutic environment on their recovery journey.

“Volunteering is a great way to build confidence and share your skills whilst supporting people in your local community.

“We are specifically looking for people with gardening skills, as well as volunteers with a level 2 gym instructor qualification, but if you have a skill and a desire to help others, we would love to hear from you to help us create healthier and communities.”

Applications for volunteering opportunities can be made online.

For more information, email bchft.volunteers@nhs.net