Hospital porter gets new job role after volunteering

Hospital porter gets new job role after volunteering

30 April 2025

DOWNE Hospital porter Macartan Digney is a shining example of how volunteering can open unexpected and rewarding doors. 

As one of the first to take on a ‘meeter and greeter’ role at the Downpatrick hospital in 2014, Macartan’s warm welcome and dedication not only made a difference to patients and visitors, but also shaped his own future.

Through the knowledge and experience he gained in his volunteer role, Macartan successfully transitioned into full-time employment and for the past eight years, has proudly served as a porter in both the Downe and Downshire hospitals and in many Trust facilities across the Downpatrick area.

Macartan said he initially decided to volunteer to help out in the Downe Hospital. 

“Whilst volunteering, I also trained as a youth worker. I never even thought about a career in the health service, but I could see there was a path and opportunities,” he explained.

Now a familiar and friendly face in the hospital corridors, Macartan is passionate about his role.

He continued: “I like my job so much that I don’t see it as a job. The people are the most important part of it. It is a beautiful building to work in and the people are the fabric within it.”

The South Eastern Trust’s volunteer services manager, Sonya Duffy, praised Macartan’s commitment and the value of volunteering as a stepping stone into healthcare careers.

She added: “Macartan’s story is a brilliant example of how volunteering not only benefits our services and the community, but can also inspire personal growth and new career paths. 

“We are incredibly proud of Macartan for the energy and kindness he continues to bring to his role.”