Health and Care Volunteer (Barnet General Hospital, London)

at  British Red Cross Volunteer

This service is for in-hospital support with the objective of reducing the number of patients deconditioning whilst in hospital. This will be achieved through interaction by talking, doing puzzles/colouring/singing/crafts to increase mental stimulation and to relieve isolation through assisting contact with families and keeping abreast of current affairs. Physical deconditioning can be reduced by accompanying patients on walks to the café around the hospital, if they are mobile. The service operates Monday - Friday - 9am - 5pm. We are looking for someone who is: - Able to volunteer 2 hours per week, in the afternoon either 2pm-4pm or 3pm-5pm. - Able to commit for at least 6 months after training. - Comfortable working in a hospital setting. - This role is on the frailty and dementia ward. Experience working with the elderly and those with dementia is desirable but not essential as dementia awareness training will be provided. - Has knowledge of local community groups/services to signpost patients would be useful. - Confident using a tablet or smartphone to make video/teams calls to patients families to relieve isolation is desirable. - Good conversational skills both verbal and written is essential. - Are available to undertake the required e-learning modules and Zoom training sessions within the first few months of volunteering plus other specific training as required. Due to the nature of this role, applicants must undergo an Enhanced with Adults barred Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Diversity is something we celebrate. We want you to be able to bring your authentic self to the Red Cross and feel that you belong. We want to create an inclusive environment, and promote and spread the power of kindness. As part of creating an inclusive space we have an expenses policy that prioritises volunteers not being out of pocket for expenses linked to your role. If up front costs are difficult, you can speak to your volunteering manager about this to find alternatives. We welcome refugees, asylum seekers and others currently in the UK to volunteer with us. We want volunteering to be accessible to everyone. Health and Safety Statement We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment and will also have a conversation with you to discuss and identify any adjustments you may need. If you have any questions before applying, please contact us at volunteerrecruitment@redcross.org.uk
Why we want you: If you are compassionate and like helping and meeting people, then this could be the role for you. Volunteers like you support people who are leaving hospital, helping to build their confidence so that they can continue to live independently in their own home.
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Tasks: Visit people in hospital as they are getting ready to go home.
Bring people home from hospital.
Help someone settle in when they first arrive home.
Support with shopping and collecting prescriptions.
Help people find further support if they need it.
Keep records of tasks.
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Skills: Warm and friendly with empathy for others.
Good communication skills.
Encouraging and supportive.
Enjoy meeting and spending time with new people.
Can work independently and as a part of a team.
Able to commit to a regular shift.
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Benefits: Meet new people and be part of a dynamic and inclusive team.
A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones.
All training and induction for the role (there is no charge for training).
Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses for the role including for attending training.
An opportunity to be part of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation and the knowledge that you are making a difference to people’s lives.

Please refer the Job description for details