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Companion at Home Volunteer (Orkney)

  • VO100993

Description

We're looking for volunteers who love meeting new people to help us support people in the community across the Orkney Islands who are affected by a terminal illness. We know that facing the end of life can be an isolating experience for both patients and carers, and that little things can make a big difference. Our Companion Volunteers are matched with people in their area to help them life well and remain socially active whatever their diagnosis.

Key activities include:
• Meeting with the person you are matched with once a week to provide company and social support.
• Being a listening ear for someone affected by a terminal illness.
• Providing support with small practical tasks, i.e. collecting shopping or accessing the internet.
• Reporting in to the Volunteer Services Coordinator after your visit by email.
• Maintaining the boundaries of the role and seeking further support if unsure.
• Respecting the people we work with and their individual circumstances.
• Attend all training and supervision sessions including one to one support sessions.

What could a volunteer gain from the experience?
This is a wonderful opportunity if you want to make a direct difference to someone in your community and if you enjoy working with people. This is also a great opportunity if you want to gain skills relevant to employment in the Health and Social Care sector. You will be part of a dedicated team who are making a real difference to the lives of people across the Orkney Islands.

Organisation aims and objectives

Every day of your life matters, from the first to the last. We believe everyone living with a terminal illness should be able to get the most from the time they have left, however hard that may sometimes feel. We’ll be here for you and your family when you may feel like no-one else is, to help you cope when you don’t know how. Marie Curie Nurses care for you in your home, when you need them most, day or night. Our hospices are at the heart of communities around the UK. And our trained volunteers and advisers are here for you with practical information and support when you don’t know what to do next or just need to talk. We’ll be by your side with care and support every step of the way, bringing light in the darkest hours.

Restrictions

We are happy to have a conversation with volunteers about any support they might need. Please note that as this role is based in the community we are unable to guarantee it is accessible for wheelchair users.
Experience required: Our ideal volunteer will have a warm and friendly manner and be able to deal with the needs of the people we support sensitively. A mature outlook on life, a compassionate approach to working with others and a sense of humour will be highly desirable. We will need you to have an understanding of confidentiality and the ability to keep to the boundaries of the role. Good general IT skills. Driving is highly desirable for this role given the nature of the communities we work in but is not essential.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Training details: You will be offered full training when you join, this will be with the Volunteer Services Coordinator and our nursing team on the islands. Ongoing support and one to one sessions will be provided as well as training in topics relevant to the role.

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