Navigators sought to guide eye patients

Anne Render, a volunteer at the existing infirmary, says she loves the interaction with people

Friendly faces to welcome patients through the doors of a city's new eye hospital are being recruited ahead of its opening.

The infirmary, due to open next summer, replaces Sunderland's existing facility on Queen Alexandra Road, which is no longer fit for purpose.

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust (STSFT) is seeking "navigators" to help show patients and visitors to the right location.

Anne Render, who volunteers at the current hospital, said it was a really nice job to do and a good feeling to help others.

The purpose-built facility, on the site of the former Vaux brewery will house cutting-edge technology and equipment to care for patients from across the region and beyond.

Once it is opened, the navigators will be stationed at the entrance to greet people, check they know where to go, and offer assistance such as phoning and looking out for taxis, or be there for a chat while people are waiting.

'Happy place'

Ms Render, who volunteers for two hours a week, is encouraging others to step up and join the team at the new hospital.

Having previously worked for the trust, she wanted to return to help her former colleagues.

Anne said: "I always wanted to help here at the Eye Infirmary because I knew the demographic of the patients and felt there would be a lot of people who needed extra support.

"It's a very happy place to be and it's nice to talk to people, help them and make their day a little bit better.

"People are genuinely grateful, this is a really nice job to do, it's a good feeling to help others."

The facility is due to open in Sunderland next summer

Her top tips for would-be navigators include to be friendly and helpful, know about practicalities such as transport and parking, and wear a comfortable pair of trainers.

She added: "I know people will be nervous about going to the new hospital because it will be different, but the facilities will be amazing."