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- Tasks: Welcome patients and visitors, handle calls, and keep the reception area tidy.
- Company: St Leonard's Hospice provides care for those with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive full training, and be part of a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a caring environment.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience, good communication skills, and a positive attitude are essential.
- Other info: Shifts available on Wednesdays from 12:30pm-2:30pm; flexible volunteering opportunities exist.
Reception plays an important part in everyone’s first impressions of St Leonard's Hospice, and is the hub for the daily activities of the organisation. Our volunteer receptionists support us by warmly welcoming patients, families, guests and visitors to the hospice as well as handling phone calls, donations and enquiries from patients’ relatives and members of the public.
When am I needed?
The Reception is staffed by volunteers weekday evenings from 5pm-8pm and weekends from 9am-8pm. Volunteers also provide lunchtime cover through the week doing a 2 hour shift, approx 12:30pm-2:30pm. The shifts we currently have vacancies for are:
- Wednesday lunchtime 12:30pm-2:30pm
Shifts are covered on a fortnightly basis but there may be opportunities to cover extra shifts. If you would like to come in more frequently, please let us know.
What will I be doing?
- Welcoming new patients and their relatives, and all other visitors to the Hospice, in a courteous and friendly manner in accordance with our current Covid guidance
- Answering the telephone efficiently and sensitively, directing calls to the appropriate member of staff and responding to enquiries
- Keeping the reception area well-presented and tidy
- Occasionally processing donations from members of the public
- Process purchases through the reception shop
What skills and qualities will I need?
- Experience of working in a customer service environment
- Enjoy meeting and dealing with a variety of people
- A clear speaking voice, good hearing and a professional telephone manner
- Good handwriting, spelling and numeracy
- Be empathetic and approachable, with a positive attitude
- Be reliable, flexible and dependable
- Ability to maintain the highest levels of confidentiality
- Have a good understanding of personal and professional boundaries
- The ability to remain calm under pressure
- The ability to deal with complex, sensitive and emotionally challenging situations.
How will I benefit from being a volunteer receptionist?
- Be part of a friendly and flexible team
- Be valued and respected
- Have full training and support
- The opportunity to develop my interpersonal and administrative skills
Support and Supervision
Reception volunteers report to the Senior Receptionist who will provide you with full training, plan your duties, and liaise closely with you over all aspects of your role. The Volunteer Services Department staff will help with your induction and be your point of contact for general enquiries about volunteering.
Training
Volunteers are required to attend face-to-face training sessions and to complete our standard mandatory training modules, which are delivered via our online platform. Additional, booster and refresher training may be delivered as needed via e-learning, video links or face to face. You may also be invited to attend role specific training and supervision sessions in person.
For all volunteering enquiries please contact the Volunteer Services Office on 01904 777765 or email volunteers@stleonardshospice.org.uk.
About The Hospice
St Leonard's Hospice provides care and support to those living with life-limiting illnesses and to the people they care about. We couldn’t carry out the important work we do without a committed and talented team of Volunteers and Supporters - people of all ages, and from all walks of life who help us provide care, assistance, and support throughout the organisation, as well as promoting the work of the hospice in local communities and raising crucial funds.
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Part-time
Job function: Administrative
Reception Volunteer employer: St Leonard's Hospice
Contact Detail:
St Leonard's Hospice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reception Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with St Leonard's Hospice and its mission. Understanding the values and services they provide will help you connect better with the team and demonstrate your genuine interest during any conversations.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills by volunteering or engaging in community activities. This will not only enhance your experience but also give you real-life examples to discuss when you meet with the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenarios you might face at the reception, such as handling sensitive inquiries or managing busy periods. Being ready for these situations will show your ability to remain calm under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former volunteers at St Leonard's Hospice. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisation, which can help you stand out as a knowledgeable candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Reception Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Reception Volunteer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these requirements.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your passion for volunteering and your understanding of the hospice's mission. Emphasise your customer service experience and how it prepares you for welcoming patients and visitors.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to showcase skills such as empathy, communication, and reliability in your CV and cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these qualities in previous roles or experiences.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Leonard's Hospice
✨Show Empathy and Approachability
As a Reception Volunteer, you'll be the first point of contact for patients and their families. Make sure to convey warmth and empathy during your interview. Share examples of how you've handled sensitive situations in the past to demonstrate your ability to connect with people.
✨Highlight Customer Service Experience
Since the role requires experience in a customer service environment, be prepared to discuss your previous roles. Talk about specific instances where you provided excellent service, dealt with challenging customers, or went above and beyond to help someone.
✨Demonstrate Good Communication Skills
A clear speaking voice and professional telephone manner are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to refine your communication skills.
✨Prepare for Situational Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle complex and emotionally challenging situations. Think of scenarios where you had to remain calm under pressure or maintain confidentiality. Prepare concise responses that highlight your problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence.
