I became a Volunteer Patient 8 years ago after hearing an appeal on Essex Radio. The satisfaction for me in volunteering is to see the student nurses improve & grow in confidence over the skills sessions; to discover their own ''short comings''. And the sudden realisation from some that they, all too soon, will be the Staff Nurse ! Also, if I have in anyway imparted something that will help them in their exams or improved their nursing skills - that is better still.

I decided to become a volunteer because I was looking for something interesting and flexible that would fit my lifestyle. I enjoy it so much that I am in my 4th year of volunteering. I feel the role of the patient actor fulfils a worthwhile role in the training of the student nurses and helps them build their confidence and practice their skills in their chosen profession, in a setting which is realistic and safe.