Our volunteers

Amina Wohlrab

Audrey Hodgson

(authorised representative)

I’ve always liked talking to people and Healthwatch gives me the opportunity to do that. I joined Healthwatch in 2019 after a Healthwatch volunteer friend suggested that I would enjoy the ‘work’ that she did, and I do, I love it. 

So far I’ve helped host a few information stands, which gave me the opportunity to get the views and opinions of the general public on their local healthcare services. I’ve also as a result of being a Healthwatch volunteer had the opportunity to take part in patient led assessments of local hospitals, a very rewarding experience and a real eye opener to the problems faced in our NHS. 

In my spare time I’m a member of the U3A, and participate in a number of activities including Kurling, a local history group and quizzes. I also love walking my dogs and I’m in a group which has regular meets for walking and chatting.

Bola Adeniran

Healthwatch has provided me with the chance and platform to actively participate, connect, communicate, and contribute towards improving Sunderland's community services. Despite being a mother of three, Healthwatch offers me the flexibility to give back to my community. Since joining, I've accessed numerous job opportunities and projects that have enhanced my skills and personal growth.

Favour Muniratu Afegbua

Healthwatch has provided me with a valuable platform for career development, skill enhancement, and personal growth. Through my involvement in signposting information, I have gained insights into community perspectives and opportunities for improvement. Despite busy schedules, Healthwatch has consistently accommodated me and welcomed my contributions.

Also, Participating in roundtable discussions facilitated by Healthwatch on various health topics has been enlightening. These discussions have not only broadened my perspective but also inspired positive changes in my life. The dedicated and caring staff at Healthwatch are always available to impart knowledge and offer support, fostering a nurturing environment for personal growth and learning.

Gaynor Mitchell

(authorised representative)

I joined the Healthwatch team as a Healthwatch champion in October 2019. I have a disabled son and over the years I have appreciated the advice and support I have received from independent organisations and I know the peace of mind that knowing your loved one is receiving good care brings as is the case with our son.

I am delighted to have new opportunities with Healthwatch to talk to people about their individual experiences both good and bad so this information can be passed on to Health and Social Care services.

As a volunteer with Healthwatch I have received e-Training online in ‘Safeguarding Adults’ and ‘Safeguarding Children’ and enjoyed a visit to a Care Home and talking to residents also attending the SEND conference too.

I look forward to many more opportunities with Healthwatch in the future.

I am interested in Botany and enjoy Pilates classes, walking and jogging – slowly.

Gill Charman

(authorised representative)

A former volunteer with LINk I joined Healthwatch in 2013 and regard myself as one of the original volunteers.

My main interest is Enter and View and I love visiting the care homes to get people's opinions of life there. I have also manned Healthwatch information stands at various venues in the area.  I enjoy talking to and listening to people about their health issues and signposting them to other services in the city.

I am a member of the U3A (University of the Third Age) and get fully involved in their activities.

Since my partner died, my constant companion is my dachshund George and despite his short legs we enjoy long walks together.

Pauline Scott

(authorised representative)

I have been volunteering with Healthwatch Sunderland since February/March 2017, undertaking surveys in GP practices, participating in the 'enter and view' work at care homes and working on information stands. In addition, I have also participated in a few ad-hoc projects which have been really interesting and informative. I feel that volunteering has benefited me by gaining new experiences, insights and learning through the training received.

In my spare time I enjoy Yoga and Pilates and go to regular classes on a weekly basis.

Grace Weir

(authorised representative)

I became a Volunteer Champion back in spring 2016. During this time I have been out and about in the community engaging with members of the public to find out what they thing about the health and social care services on offer in our city. I really enjoy conversing with people and have plenty of opportunities to do this in my role here at Healthwatch Sunderland.

In my spare time I enjoy walking and going along to my local gym.

Michael Orji