Home About us For volunteers For organisations For groups Find opportunities Contact us

Find opportunities

Care / Support Worker

Ward Volunteer-Vale of Leven Hospital

  • NHS Ward Volunteering Project-Vale of Leven
  • VO59391

Description

Can you make a difference to elderly patients within a health setting? Patients that have been in hospital for a prolonged period of time can experience isolation and frustration due to a lack of stimulation and visitors. We are looking for mature, confident volunteers with plenty of life experience to help improve the patients’ stay.

The main role of the volunteer is to provide friendship and stimulation for elderly patients, many of whom will have some form of cognitive impairment. Tasks will include;

• Chatting to patients on a one to one basis and exploring their personal interests
• Reading to patients, or playing games such as dominos, board games and crosswords
• Providing verbal encouragement and support to the patient during mealtimes
• Supporting the activities coordinator with activities on the ward

Volunteers can enhance their experience in hospital and potentially avoid them becoming frustrated, which can stem from prolonged periods of time where stimulation is lacking. Many of these patients don’t have visitors.

Organisation aims and objectives

The aim of the ward volunteering project is to reduce social isolation and boredom amongst patients at the Vale of Leven Hospital. It is acknowledged that long periods on the wards can lead to isolation and frustration for some patients due to a lack of stimulation and visitors. Volunteers can make a huge difference to the patient experience through chatting, sharing activities and assisting with other tasks that will benefit patient care and improve their overall stay.

Frequency and commitment details

We require volunteers to provide 3 hours per week

Restrictions

Experience required: Experience with elderly people beneficial. Ability to interact well with patients & staff is essential. Excellent Communication skills, Ability to work independently, Patience & empathy, Reliable, Caring manner, Ability to work confidentially
Travel details: Vale of Leven Hospital
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Reasonably agreed out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed by the project staff
Support: Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet,
Named Contact For Volunteer

Last updated 3 months ago

Similar opportunities

Professional Volunteer
  • Sported (Midlothian)
Representation matters, which is why we want our volunteers to reflect the diversity of the community groups we work with. We’re actively encouraging applicants from ethnically diverse backgrounds to apply as we are currently under-represented in this space. You will meet the inspirational faces of community groups across the UK and immerse yourself in their work; use your existing skills whilst developing new ones; guide members to become more inclusive; network with like-minded individuals helping grassroots clubs. You'll use your professional skills to help groups overcome operational challenges, become better equipped for the future, and tackle inequality in sport. Our roles are quite flexible and work around your schedule. We only share opportunities we think are relevant to you. With most of our volunteering support being delivered digitally, it’s even easier to get started supporting members across our network, to help sports groups survive; and so much more.
Find out more
Retail Volunteer (Leven)
  • Chest Heart & Stroke (Fife)
From stunning boutiques full of designer gems to discount stores where you can grab a bargain, our charity shops are much-loved across Scotland.  We are looking for friendly volunteers to help our shop management team assist customers and donors, and ensure the shop is tidy and well stocked. Whether you have a passion for fashion and love chatting to customers, or you would prefer to be behind the scenes in our stockroom, your help could make a difference in your local community.    Our Retail Volunteer Anne shares why she loves volunteering, "I wanted to learn new skills as well as get to know more people locally, so volunteering in the shop was ideal. I enjoy being part of the team! It’s good to feel useful and part of the successful running of the shop."  We believe everyone has the right to live life to the full following the diagnosis of a chest or heart condition, long Covid, or a stroke. Our shops are vital in helping us raise the funds needed to provide services such as community support services, specialist nurses, advice and information, education, and peer support.    Join our fabulous team of Retail volunteers and learn new skills, make great friends, and make a real difference to people in Scotland who are isolated, scared, or anxious about their condition.   
Find out more
Retail Volunteer (Cowdenbeath)
  • Chest Heart & Stroke (Fife)
From stunning boutiques full of designer gems to discount stores where you can grab a bargain, our charity shops are much-loved across Scotland.  We are looking for friendly volunteers to help our shop management team assist customers and donors, and ensure the shop is tidy and well stocked. Whether you have a passion for fashion and love chatting to customers, or you would prefer to be behind the scenes in our stockroom, your help could make a difference in your local community.    Our Retail Volunteer Anne shares why she loves volunteering, "I wanted to learn new skills as well as get to know more people locally, so volunteering in the shop was ideal. I enjoy being part of the team! It’s good to feel useful and part of the successful running of the shop."   We believe everyone has the right to live life to the full following the diagnosis of a chest or heart condition, long Covid, or a stroke. Our shops are vital in helping us raise the funds needed to provide services such as community support services, specialist nurses, advice and information, education, and peer support.    Join our fabulous team of Retail volunteers and learn new skills, make great friends, and make a real difference to people in Scotland who are isolated, scared, or anxious about their condition.   
Find out more
Retail Volunteer (Dunfermline)
  • Chest Heart & Stroke (Fife)
From stunning boutiques full of designer gems to discount stores where you can grab a bargain, our charity shops are much-loved across Scotland. We are looking for friendly volunteers to help our shop management team assist customers and donors, and ensure the shop is tidy and well stocked. Whether you have a passion for fashion and love chatting to customers, or you would prefer to be behind the scenes in our stockroom, your help could make a difference in your local community. Our Retail Volunteer Anne shares why she loves volunteering, "I wanted to learn new skills as well as get to know more people locally, so volunteering in the shop was ideal. I enjoy being part of the team! It's good to feel useful and part of the successful running of the shop". We believe everyone has the right to live life to the full following the diagnosis of a chest or heart condition, long Covid, or a stroke. Our shops are vital in helping us raise the funds needed to provide services such as community support services, specialist nurses, advice and information, education, and peer support. Join our fabulous team of Retail volunteers and learn new skills, make great friends, and make a real difference to people in Scotland who are isolated, scared, or anxious about their condition.
Find out more