Description

Could you help us support patients and families on the inpatient unit in the hospice?

We know that a stay in a hospice can be a difficult and worrying time for our patients and their loved ones. Many people might not know what to expect, or might worry about leaving their loved one on their own if they are staying with us. We want to make the ward the best place to stay for our patients, and give their loved ones peace of mind so that they can get some much needed rest.

Ward Companions will carry out a shift with us in the hospice, visiting patients and chatting with them, or helping them to access our services around the hospice. You might also be helping our staff facilitate games and activities for our patients and their carers. This is a brand new service we are creating here in Glasgow, so you will definitely be part of ongoing quality improvement in patient care.

Your main tasks will include but are not limited to:

Sitting with patients chatting with them on a one to one basis or as part of a group.
Helping our staff with activities and helping patients to take part where appropriate.
Providing emotional support to patients and their loved ones while they are with us on the ward.
Helping patients and families by collecting things from the front desk or signposting them to our services.
Giving carers respite by sitting with their loved one.
Reporting on your activity after each shift to help us monitor and improve the quality of our service.

You will receive a training and induction session when you join us as well as ongoing support from the Companion team and our staff on the ward. You will also be part of an innovative new service to improve the experience of inpatients and their loved ones. This is a great role for someone who likes meeting new people, has great conversational skills and wants to support people experiencing hospice and end of life care. If this sounds like the role for you then we would love to hear from you.

If you are interested, please click the ‘Apply’ button below (available when logged in and registered). You will then be contacted by the coordinator by email or phone call. If you have not heard back after 5 working days, the first step is to contact the organisation with the contact details provided. You could also check your junk/spam folder on your emails just in case the response is there. If that doesn’t work out then please feel free to contact Volunteer Glasgow on info@volunteerglasgow.org.

Availability

Restrictions

Experience required: Compassion, empathy and a sensitive approach to dealing with the needs of patients receiving end of life care and their loved ones. An understanding of the importance of confidentiality and the ability to follow instructions will be vital as you will be based in a clinical environment. Our ideal volunteer will have a creative approach to working with others as well as a mature perspective on life and death. Warmth and a sense of humour will also be ideal.
Travel details: The hospice is located within the grounds of Stobhill Hospital in Springburn. You can get to us by taking the A803 north towards Bishopbriggs, then turning right onto Stobhill Road near Farmfoods. From there, follow the road ahead through the traffic lights and past Stobhill Cottages. The hospice will be on your right just after the cottages. If you are taking public transport you can take bus number 87 or 88 from Buchanan Bus Station, the nearest stop for the hospice is a 5 minute walk away
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: We pay reasonable out of pocket expenses including travel expenses and mileage. These are paid monthly by bank transfer, and your volunteer manager will be able to help you claim any expenses you are entitled to.
Support: Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet