Check-In and Chat Volunteer
The check in and chat volunteer will be paired with an isolated carer to provide them with an opportunity of a regular social conversation to help reduce feelings of being alone and to open the discussion with the carer about the services available to them in their community and where appropriate online.
The Difference You Will Make
Being socially connected and part of the community can really support a person’s feeling of wellbeing and alleviate feelings of being lonely and having no one to talk to. Being able to talk about hobbies and interests with someone else can give a carer a sense of self and what makes them happy in life. It can be just a small thing that can make so much difference. Do not underestimate the value of the call you make to a carer and the impact that will have on their wellbeing.
Your calls will help to create social connections for the carer and support them to:
- feel less isolated and alone in their caring role
- have an increase in their social connections
- feel more able to access services available to them in their community
Role Expectations
1. To make a regular social call to a carer
2. To provide undivided attention, a listening ear
3. To alleviate social isolation and loneliness
4. To promote positive mental health
5. To feedback details of the call to the Volunteer team and to raise any issues or concerns
Skills and Personal Qualities Required:
- An empathetic caring approach when engaging with others
- To be non-judgemental and be able to maintain personal boundaries
- Encourage and promote carer health and wellbeing
- Understanding of the issues carers face
- A sensitive attitude towards other people
- Friendly and patient approach
- Good communicator and ability to start up conversations with people easily
- Listening skills
- Able to accurately record information
- Competent in using email and Apps
Training and Support
There is the following mandatory training required:
1. CSWS Induction Training
2. Basic Adult Safeguarding – online session
3. Role specific training – Befriending
4. Data Protection(online)
5. Pride in care
Support for You
- A designated mentor will support you in your role and provide you with 1-1 reviews on the role. You will have opportunities to discuss any carer issues raised with your mentor to raise any concerns and ensure safeguarding.
- An online regular meeting with other volunteers
- You will be part of a wider volunteering team where you can access support on the administration requirements for the role, entering timesheets and claiming expenses.
- Access to Workplace Employee Assistance Scheme
- Opportunities for ongoing learning and personal development
Location:
This role can we undertaken from anywhere in West Sussex and you will be supported virtually in your role.
Timings and Commitment:
Timings can be flexible to suit from a minimum of 1 hour per week/fortnight/month up to 3 hours depending upon how many check in and chat calls you will be making. Minimum commitment of 12 months.
Other Information:
This role is available to anyone over the age of 18yrs
We will require 2 References and a basic DBS check
How to Apply:
Complete our Volunteer Enquiry Form below