We need Community Support Volunteers to visit and offer companionship to patients living with life limiting conditions as well as carers and bereaved carers

Location: All areas

Time Commitment: Flexible, there are no set hours or time limit with this role

Days: All week

Tasks include:

Work closely with Community Volunteering Coordinator to understand the needs of the patient/carer being referred and decide if this is a good fit for you
Introduce yourself to a patient/carer you have been matched with over the telephone, in writing or via a virtual app such as zoom or skype and start to build a rapport
When you and the patient / carer feel ready, arrange an initial visit to the patient / carers home on a day and time that suits all parties
Where appropriate, engage in activities such as life story work, reminiscence, painting, reading, playing games and so on, that contribute towards reducing loneliness and social isolation of patients / carers
Be mindful that you are in an environment where there may be contact with family members and close friends of patient/carer
Remain in contact with the hospice and keep us informed of how things are going and any issues or concerns
Adhere to most recent Covid 19 guidelines to ensure the safety of yourself, patient/carer at all times
Engage with and support other volunteers in this role by sharing your experience and offering a listening ear

Training and support:

eLearning modules
Community Support Volunteer Training (in person)

Health and Safety Considerations in this Role:

You will be made aware of key areas highlighted in the patient/carers home risk assessment
You will be trained on how to conduct first visits
You will be trained in what do in an emergency
You will be given information on individual capability of patient/carer if known
You will have access to staff and peer support to reduce emotional impact of the role

Lone working consideration:

This role requires you to work independently, further information of our lone working/volunteering guidelines can be found within our CSV handbook

Disclosure and Barring (DBS) Check: Enhanced with Adult Barring

This post involves working in Regulated Activity under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and is subject to an enhanced DBS with Adult Barred list check.

It is a criminal offence to apply for or accept a position working with adults at risk and/or children if you have been barred from engaging in regulated activity with the relevant group (ie adults, children or both).