NODA Ayrshire works to support members of the community to help each other at the end of life. We offer support across the three Ayrshire Local Authority areas. The volunteer companion will provide bedside support/vigiling to those who are dying and alone and provide support or respite to those with families who need it. They will work fluidly, responding promptly to WhatsApp messages on the Rota Chat and replying whenever they can help. They will respond to emails promptly. They will read the guidelines in this role description and adhere to them at all times. They will attend training. They will provide evaluation feedback sheets to the Service Manager (lead) after training, and after each vigil. In addition they must provide details to the lead after any particularly challenging situations and confirm once they have received peer support, after each vigil. Main Responsibilities 1 To vigil and/or support any person that requires it following a referral being received. 2 To operate at all times within the guidelines and the policies, practice and ethos of No-one Dies Alone Ayrshire. 3 To regularly engage with the Service Manage through promptly responding to communications as soon as possible. 4 Maintain strict confidentiality, for all parties, and to sign and adhere to the confidentiality agreement. 5 To read through and watch the Samaritan’s training on listening (details provided below). 6 To familiarise themselves with Health Protection Scotland (HPS) guidance on infection control procedures and adhere to them. 7 The Volunteer Companion, in common with all staff and volunteers, has a duty to protect supported individuals from abuse and to report any concerns immediately to the lead, and where appropriate to the police. 8 All volunteers also have a duty to ensure they comply with requirements under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. They should familiarise themselves with the organisation’s policies and procedures and work within the policy framework including Confidentiality, Health & Safety, Equal Opportunities and Code of Conduct.

Marie Curie Companion is a professional service provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service. Companion Volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, practical support, short breaks for carers and help with signposting for information and support. Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks: Carry out weekly visits with the person(s) you’re supporting, as agreed with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. This could be in a variety of settings, eg family home, a care home or in the community. Provide one-to-one companionship and support. For example: offering a listening ear and spending time engaging in every-day conversation, activities or hobbies with the person you are supporting. Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (e.g. to medical appointments) or taking short trips out. Helping with small, daily tasks, e.g. making tea or accessing the internet. Allowing carers to have a short break. You may be supporting your client’s family or carers before or during bereavement. This may involve offering emotional support, signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested (This is only an outline as support will vary according to individual needs. Companion volunteers do not provide nursing or personal care, or offer counselling or advice) Keep your manager informed of any changes to the situation, or any significant happenings in connection to the person you’re supporting and/or their family, either in person or by phone Submit regular visit reports to your manager and update relevant computer systems as required Be reliable and committed to regularly spending time with someone and offering support Attend individual sessions with your Volunteer Co-ordinator, training and group events as required Represent the Marie Curie Companion service positively to those using the service For more information or if you have any questions regarding this volunteer role, please contact the Volunteering Operations Team at volunteering@mariecurie.org.uk ABOUT US Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and 6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left. Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one. Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

Marie Curie Companion is a professional service provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service. As a Companion Volunteer, you will: · Provide a listening ear, engage in everyday conversations, help with small daily tasks, and offer emotional support to clients and their families. · Spend quality time with those you’re supporting, whether at their home, in a care home, or out in the community. · Allow primary caregivers to take short breaks, giving them time to rest and recharge. · Drive clients to pre-arranged medical appointments or for short trips out. Why Volunteer with Us? · Your commitment and compassion will provide comfort and joy to individuals and families during challenging times. · We offer full training and continuous support to ensure you feel confident and prepared in your role. · Join a passionate and supportive team of over 6,500 volunteers who are making a difference every day. · We have volunteer roles available throughout the UK, allowing you to find a position that fits your schedule and location. Your Responsibilities: · Conduct weekly visits as agreed with the Volunteer Coordinator. · Report significant changes or happenings to your manager. · Submit regular visit reports and update relevant systems. · Attend individual sessions, training, and group events as required. · Represent the Marie Curie Companion service positively.

The aim of Care and Share Companionship is to provide support to people over the age of 60 who are living in isolation or loneliness in the Kirkcaldy area. We offer volunteer companionship to help improve health, well-being and confidence. Volunteer companions provide face to face, telephone or shopping support giving their time from 30 minutes to two or three hours. Going for short walks together, attending groups of interest, going to local cafes for tea/coffee or just chatting with a friend will build a rapport and establish mutual respect and understanding giving both the Friend and Volunteer a positive experience.