Youthwatch Hampshire

Youthwatch Hampshire is a network of volunteers aged between 16 and 25 who are passionate about young people’s rights, and keen to make a difference in health and social care.

As a volunteer you will find ways of reaching out to young people to gather their experiences and understand what is important to them. This can include:

• Designing surveys and speaking to young people directly in ‘focus groups’
• Research, analysis and report writing • Organising events and workshops
• Collaborating with schools and other young people’s groups
• Using different ways of reaching out and getting your message out there, such as social media campaigns and filming
• Representing Youthwatch Hampshire at meetings with the people who run local services (NHS and Local Council).
• Presenting your project findings in different and exciting ways
• Advocating for change and improving local services by making recommendations to the people who design and run services

Our volunteers benefit from:

• Ongoing training opportunities
• Regular supervision
• Enhancing their CV and employability
• Developing team working skills
• Developing leadership skills
• An increased understanding of health and social care systems and services
• The opportunity to specialise in the area that most interests you. This could be research and report writing, events organisation, media and communications. You will work closely with Healthwatch Staff who will provide guidance and support to develop your skills in the chosen area. 
  

Skills

Our volunteers don’t have to have any previous experience, just be passionate about making health services better for local young people. 

When working as a Youthwatch Volunteer you need to be:

• Reliable
• Open minded and tactful
• Be able to work within the boundaries of your role
• Have good communication skills
• Be able to work as part of a team

Healthwatch’s mission is to represent our community, and we encourage volunteers from all backgrounds, faiths and communities, of all sexual orientations, gender identities and disabilities to come and volunteer with us! If you feel you need any adjustment or support in ordered to volunteer, please talk to our Volunteer lead and we will be happy to help you.