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Macmillan Buddy

  • VO99718

Description

Our Macmillan Buddy service provides a lifeline for people with cancer by offering them weekly support. The service is delivered by volunteers, who undergo comprehensive training and are fully supported by our staff and lead volunteers.

As a Macmillan Buddy volunteer, you can make a real difference to people's lives, at the hardest time of their life. As a volunteer buddy, you are there as someone for your service user to talk to about how they are feeling and their support needs during this difficult time.

Our Macmillan Community Buddies visit the service user face-to-face in the local community, usually the service user's home. This can also include offering support with simple practical tasks around the home.

You'll also:

  • Be a key part of a friendly team of volunteers and staff
  • Receive comprehensive training and support
  • Have the opportunity to develop your communication and people skills
  • Receive out of pocket expenses, in line with our expenses policy

Organisation aims and objectives

Founded in 1911, Macmillan Cancer Relief (formerly Cancer Relief Macmillan Fund) works to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. Each year they help more than 200,000 people throughout the UK. They provide funding for Macmillan nurses, doctors and other posts, provide patient grants, fund building developments or refurbishments and provide an information service. They can help by giving benefits advice and showing you how to fill in forms and apply for grants. Find local services on the website.

Availability

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening

2-3 hours per week

Restrictions

Experience required: - a good listener - good communication skills - full training is provided
Travel details: Telephone buddies volunteer from their own home providing support on the telephone. Community buddies provide support in the service user's home or meeting at a public place like a cafe for a chat.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Training details: Once an individual registers their interest in becoming a Macmillan Buddy, they are invited to an interview with the volunteer manager where they can learn more about the role and for us to hear about their experience. If happy to progress with the role, full online training is provided, both with online modules and teams calls. Once training completed and in role, there is regular support provided by volunteer manager.
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer,
Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet

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