Spotlight on…Moorfields at Bedford

28th July, 2026

Despite being a smaller site, Moorfields at Bedford offers patients a wide range of outpatient clinics, complex surgery and a diagnostics hub. Staff describe our volunteers at this site as part of the fabric of Moorfields, but in return, volunteering also gives something back to them: a very special community.

Because they cover different shifts and don’t see each other during volunteering, our Bedford volunteers organise a coffee morning every month. We joined them in April and chatted about why they volunteer at Moorfields and what it’s like to be part of the Bedford crew.

“After I retired as a nurse, volunteering was my way to come back to the Moorfields family. I have been on both sides of the system: as a nurse it was my responsibility to deliver the best possible treatment and service, but as a volunteer, my sole purpose is looking after the patient. I love being able to help staff focus on delivering an excellent service because they don’t have to worry about who looks after the patient.” – Moira

“I started volunteering after the amazing treatment I received at Moorfields myself and have been involved in clinic and admin support here at Bedford for many years. It’s nice to be able to support on different things.” – Gaynor

“What’s really special is that Moorfields [at Bedford] is very communal. Everyone is respectful and generous about learning from each other. When you go into theatre, you have any culture in the world, working together in the same room as one. It’s really wonderful to be part of this team.” – Adrian

“The handholding role is something incredible, especially because holding someone’s hand is not something that comes natural to all patients. When people are anxious, I put them at ease by saying: ‘Look at it like I am a friend’. Jan Kuszlewicz was my inspiration – I want to follow his ethos of giving: I’m happy when I see patients are happy.” – Andrew

“What I love about volunteering at Moorfields is the team spirit. The medical staff truly appreciate the role volunteers play in helping patients feel calmer and taking the time to sit down with them. They [Moorfields staff] are incredible and always put the patient first, so they understand how spending time with patients is very much needed.” – Naomi

A special thank you to the wonderful Pauline who is taking a break from volunteering. We can’t wait to welcome you back!