Call Companion

  • VO86094


Description

As a call companion, you will make regular telephone calls to a lonely and isolated older person experiencing loneliness and isolation. These calls provide a lifeline of friendship for our older people, and the regular, warm, friendly chats and companionship provide a vital link with the outside world from which they have become isolated. Over time, you and the older person you have been matched with will get to know each other well and together you will spend many hours full of fun, laughter and stories. Tasks include calling the older person you have been matched with two to four times per month at an agreed time, following the guidance in your call companion training modules to ensure that your calls are enjoyable and keeping in regular contact with Re-engage.

Organisation aims and objectives

Re-engage exists to support older people who live alone and find it hard to get out in normal times. The Covid-19 crisis is particularly devastating for these people and many are feeling incredibly vulnerable, especially those with few family members or friends to talk to. In response to the crisis we’ve suspended our regular social gatherings and, with the help of our dedicated volunteers, have set up a UK-wide call companions service. Older people who are feeling alone can receive a regular friendly phone call throughout the crisis and beyond, for as long as they want it. No one should have to face this crisis alone. We won’t leave anyone behind.

Availability

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This is a long-term voluntary role, so we are ideally looking for individuals who are able to commit to volunteering with us for at least 12 months

Restrictions

Experience required: Good conversation skills; an enthusiasm for speaking on the phone and making connections remotely; a friendly, empathetic approach; the ability to really listen to people; patience; a passion for improving the lives of lonely and isolated older people; a passion for improving the lives of lonely and isolated older people; the ability to volunteer as part of a mutually supportive team of call companions; basic computer literacy(including the ability to use email).
Travel details: Home based
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses details: No expenses.
Training details: As one of our valued call companions, you’ll receive training, support and regular communications from the Re-engage team.
Support: Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet