We are looking for committed and empathetic volunteers to support people who are living with, or affected by chronic pain who access our phone, online forum and e-help support services.
This is a great opportunity to enhance your communication skills and develop an understanding of pain self-management, while providing a valued service to people living with long-term pain. By joining us you will join a fast-growing and respected service.
Due to the nature of the role, successful applicants will be required to undertake a PVG check.
What you would be doing:
· Offer emotional support and signpost resources and information to people affected by persistent pain either by phone, email or on the online forum
· You will work as part of a team of volunteers, covering a rota, ability to commit to shifts is essential
· Attend training/supervision sessions remotely
· Keep up to date with Pain Concern news and work across the UK
· Complete ‘after contact’ survey to support Pain Concern’s evaluation targets.
We would like volunteers to commit to for at least 12 months (including the training period), with the acknowledgement that your circumstances may change.
Pain Concern is a charity providing information and support to people with pain and those who care for them, whether family, friends or healthcare professionals. Visit our website to find out more about what we do, including our Airing Pain radio programme, Pain Matters magazine, information helpline and online community. All pain is unpleasant, but for the one in five people in the UK living with long-term pain it is a part of everyday life. It diminishes quality of life more than any other condition, leading often to loss of work, depression and disability. Anyone at any age can develop persistent pain and you will very probably know somebody affected. Although there is usually no cure, people who receive the appropriate treatment, information and support can manage their condition effectively with lifechanging results.
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3 hours per week
Experience required: We are looking for an individual who possesses some or all of the below experiences, skills and qualities.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills
· A flexible team player
· A working understanding of IT, Microsoft office and have access to a computer, laptop, or tablet with internet access
· Happy to use Microsoft Teams for meetings
· Knowledge of / interest in pain and long-term conditions /experience of chronic pain yourself, or in someone close to you
Travel details: Various Lothian Buses available, Office is a 10min walk from Newcraighall Train Station
Minimum age: 18
Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Travel expenses are paid. Volunteers are reimbursed when it is best for them.
Training details: 6 week training programme which includes, induction, pain awareness, written and verbal communications and process training. All volunteers are invited to attend supervision training sessions every 6-8 weeks. Volunteers have a dedicated line manager.
Support:
Named Contact For Volunteer