One of our newest Young Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire volunteers recently took part in a PLACE (Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment) Assessment at Bedford Hospital.

It was her first volunteering experience with Young Healthwatch, giving her the opportunity to see the hospital from a different perspective, meet staff, ask questions and learn more about how patients experience their surroundings.

Here, she shares her personal reflections on the day, what she discovered and why she is glad she got involved.

“Sometimes the best part of an organisation or an event is the behind the scenes.

I was privileged to visit the hospital today with Young Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire to conduct a PLACE Assessment for Bedford Hospital.

I have walked in here a thousand times, and I learnt a lot from today’s assessment.

When I got there in the morning, I had a cinnamon roll, a custard something (I did not check the name, to be honest. It had custard, so I picked it!) and an orange juice.

I can’t lie; I was scared because it was my first time volunteering with Young Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire and I did not know how anything would work. But I do now.

We had our names on the table, ready. I felt like a proper guest. It was very beautiful. I had the best team ever. They were so friendly and mature. They were so experienced. They were patient. They answered all my questions. And trust me, I had a lot.

The nurses were friendly and it was so good because they were themselves. It was weird at first, but it got better and I got used to it. Then, we had free lunch. I got burgers, a Dr Pepper and a sponge cake, custard, with jam.

Today was beautiful and I am glad I volunteered for this. This is me saying a big thank you to Young Healthwatch for this beautiful opportunity.”