Asylum seeker praises North Tees hospital after volunteering

Amir Vosooghi began volunteering at University Hospital of North Tees during the Covid-19 pandemic, using the experience to improve his wellbeing and regain confidence.

He helped at lunchtimes, welcomed patients, moved people between wards, and supported the foodbank.

Mr Vosooghi, a trained vet who arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker, said: “When Covid started in 2020, I was living alone with no experience of life here.

“I was dealing with anxiety, depression, and kidney pain, and I didn’t know what was happening to me.

“Volunteering became a lifeline.

“On the wards I met brilliant people – almost like angels – who helped me feel human again.

“It gave me confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.

“I wasn’t useless.

“I was part of something.”

Now living in London, Mr Vosooghi is pursuing further studies and employment while working part-time.

Mr Vosooghi helped at lunchtimes, welcomed patients, moved people between wards, and supported the foodbank (Image: NORTH TEES AND HARTLEPOOL NHS FOUNDATION TRUST)

He said that volunteering was one of the best decisions he made and that he never felt judged or questioned about his past.

He said: “People have ideas about refugees.

“I didn’t want to be asked about my past.

“At the hospital, nobody asked – they just accepted me.

“That acceptance helped me heal.”

After facing health issues, setting new exams, and relocating to London, he is now a British citizen.

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He remains focused on building his veterinary career and encourages others to look at their progress and not be afraid to seek help, adding: “If you feel tired, look at how far you’ve come.

“And never be afraid to ask for help.

“Sometimes that’s what keeps you moving.”

His story was shared to mark Mental Health Awareness Week and highlight the value of volunteering for wellbeing, inclusion, and recovery.

Find out more about volunteering at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool by visiting https://www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/volunteering/