Information:
The Bridge Builders programme is an initiative designed in collaboration with the NHS Lothian Voluntary Services team and the Medical Education Directorate. Bridge Builders are volunteers who accompany patients who may benefit from extra support to attend and engage in their outpatient appointments.
A Bridge Builder can provide support in many ways. They can:
- Meet the person on-site before their appointment.
- Help them find their way around the hospital or clinic.
- Sit in the appointment and act as an “extra pair of ears”. This is completely optional and the volunteer can step out at any time.
- Spend some time after the appointment to talk things through and ensure understanding of any next steps.
- Report any concerns or questions back to the clinic directly.
CM & SD 11/02/26
Who can refer:
We accept referrals from all health care professionals in both Primary and Secondary Care. Patients can also self-refer. There is a Patient Information Leaflet that patients can be directed to or can be printed out.
Who to refer:
This programme is open to anyone who:
- Would benefit from having a volunteer attend their outpatient appointment with them.
- Has an outpatient appointment within the Edinburgh area.
Support may be particularly helpful for those who:
- Feel anxious or unsure about attending an appointment.
- Are attending alone and would prefer some company.
- Are unsure about where to go or how to get to the right place.
- Would benefit from talking things through before and/or after their appointment.
Who not to refer:
This programme is unable to support patients who require:
- Personal care (e.g. assistance with toileting).
- Transport to and from their appointment.
How to refer:
Please complete a referral form and email it to: loth.bridgebuilders@nhs.scot
As a minimum, we require by email the patient’s:
- Full name
- Contact number
- Consent for Bridge Builders team to make contact.
Patients can be referred to the programme while awaiting confirmation of their outpatient appointment date/time. We can follow up with the patient and/or the referrer when details are confirmed.
Telephone: 07484 994 286
Email: loth.bridgebuilders@nhs.scot
A member of the team will contact the patient to complete a short telephone assessment. This includes explaining the programme, outlining the volunteers support and identifying any needs or adjustments. Patients are matched with volunteers based on availability and individual needs. Confirmation will be provided in advance of their appointment via telephone or email where consent is given.
Bridge Builders 5 minute presentation – not available yet
