A TEENAGER has become the first volunteer to win the Royal Bolton Hospital's employee of the month award.

Alex Watson spends two days a week working with staff to improve patients experiences and has been praised for his efforts by colleagues.

The 17-year-old, from Little Lever, got involved at the hospital last year and helps out as part of a placement with Bolton College.

He hopes the role will help him in his ambition to become a physiotherapist when he finishes his course.

Alex was nominated for the award by patient experience manager Tracy Joynson who was impressed with his consistent level of effort.

“Alex’s support helps the trust to collate patient feedback in a timely manner enabling us to make a difference to the experience of our patients," she said.

"He always arrives when promised with a smile on his face and works extremely hard integrating with the rest of the team.

"He is a real asset to the trust and my reason for nominating Alex is to say a huge thank you on behalf of the patient experience team for all he has done for us and continues to do for us.

"We really appreciate it.”

Alex says months working in the volunteer role has helped him to gain confidence.

He added: “I used to be quite shy and when I first started I wouldn’t speak to anyone. Now I’ve definitely come out of myself. I like the people I work with. It’s hard work but rewarding.”

To find out more about volunteering, visit: www.boltonft.nhs.uk/work-with-us/volunteer-with-us/.