The Niagara Health System has launched a pilot project aimed at improving patient experiences in three of the region's E-R's.

Specially trained volunteers will provide extra care and support to patients and their loved ones at three Emergency Departments including St. Catharines General, GNGH and Welland.

A total of 45 volunteers have received specialized training dealing with confidentiality, infection prevention and control along with emergency codes.

In a media release, the NHS says the volunteers will work to facilitate communication between patients and nurses, help answer questions about wait times and provide comfort and support.

The volunteers include retired former health care workers along with young people in post secondary programs that are preparing for a career in a medical field.

The project runs through the summer and will be assessed to determine if it will continue on a year round basis.