At a Glance
- Tasks: Support singing sessions for people with dementia, encouraging participation and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Company: Join Alzheimer’s Society, dedicated to transforming lives affected by dementia through support and advocacy.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make meaningful connections, and contribute to a positive community impact.
- Why this job: Be part of uplifting sessions that help individuals find their voice and connect through music.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring enthusiasm, compassion, and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Volunteer every Thursday from 9:30am to 12:30pm in Downend, Bristol.
About The Role
We are looking for volunteers for our Singing for the Brain groups in Bristol. Our Singing for the Brain sessions offer people affected by dementia a chance to enjoy a fun activity within a supportive environment, but we need you to help make this happen!
Singing for the Brain is a structured group session, designed around the principles of music therapy and singing, for people with dementia, who may attend alone or with a carer. These uplifting sessions offer the people attending an enjoyable activity, as well as the chance to socialise with other people affected by dementia.
- Westbury-on-Trym Singing for the Brain
When: Wednesday, weekly
Session running time: 10:30am – 12pm
Where: Saint Monica Trust, Cote Lane, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3UN
Volunteer hours required: Wednesdays, 10:15am- 12:15pm - Knowle West Singing for the Brain
When: Tuesdays, weekly
Session running time: 10:30am – 12:15pm
Where: Bristol Community Links South, Langhill Avenue, Avon, Bristol, BS4 1TN
Volunteer hours required: Tuesdays, 10:15am- 12:30pm
As a Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer, you’ll be welcoming and talking to people with dementia, helping them to feel at ease. You will help set up the room and tidy away at the end of the session and help prepare and distribute refreshments as well as supporting the session facilitator by distributing materials such as songbooks. Once the singing session starts, you’ll provide encouragement to participate in the activity, and support the session facilitator with the activities, either online or in person.
You’ll be great for the role if:
- You have an interest in developing meaningful relationships and making a real difference.
- You want to enable people with dementia to find their voice through music in an incredibly rewarding role.
- You are fun and enthusiastic.
- You have the ability to listen and display compassion.
- If you are supporting our virtual sessions, you will need to be able to navigate effectively online and be able to use Zoom with confidence.
- Experience of dementia is not essential, nor is the ability to sing!
If you find completing online applications difficult, please don\\\’t let this stop you from applying. Please call or email us and we can support you with the application process. You can contact the Volunteering Recruitment Team by emailing volunteering@alzheimers.org.uk or call on 0300 222 5706.
Minimum age 16
About Alzheimer’s Society
About Alzheimer’s Society
Alzheimer’s Society is here for everyone affected by dementia.
By 2025, an estimated 1 million people will be living with the condition in the UK, and many millions more carers, partners, families and friends will be affected.
Dementia is a complex condition, and there’s no one-size fits all solution but until we find a cure, our aim is to transform lives today.
We do this by:
- Providing flexible support services so that people with dementia, their carers and loved ones, can access expert advice and guidance, support through their most challenging days, and a safe space to turn when they need it.
- Being a force for change – using research and influencing to push for breakthroughs that will change the lives of people affected by dementia now and in future.
Our Values
Determined to make a difference: We\\\’re passionate, we\\\’re focused and we make a lasting impact for people affected by dementia.
Trusted expert: We\\\’re listening, we\\\’re learning and we use experience and evidence.
Better together: We\\\’re open, we combine our strengths and we achieve more together.
Compassionate: We\\\’re kind, we\\\’re honest and we don\\\’t shy away from challenges.
Equal opportunities
Alzheimer’s Society is committed to equal opportunities.
Alzheimer’s Society embraces diversity, inclusion and accessibility for all of our people. We are committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities we serve and ensuring inclusion in everything we do. This means ensuring our recruitment processes are barrier-free and as inclusive as possible to everyone. We will look at making reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.
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Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Bristol employer: Alzheimers Society
Contact Detail:
Alzheimers Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of music therapy and how it benefits individuals with dementia. This knowledge will help you engage more effectively during the sessions and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider volunteering for similar community activities or events before applying. This experience can provide you with valuable insights into working with people affected by dementia and enhance your understanding of their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current volunteers or staff at Alzheimer’s Society. They can offer first-hand advice on what the role entails and share tips on how to make a positive impact during the sessions.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for music and social interaction in any informal discussions or interviews. Highlighting your passion can set you apart and demonstrate that you’re the right fit for this uplifting role.
We think you need these skills to ace Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your passion for supporting people with dementia and your enthusiasm for music. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, that demonstrate your ability to connect with others and create a supportive environment.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills that are particularly relevant to this role, such as communication, empathy, and teamwork. Mention any experience you have in volunteering or working with vulnerable groups, even if it’s not directly related to dementia or music.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, make sure to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is important for a role that involves interacting with others.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alzheimers Society
✨Show Your Compassion
As a Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer, it's essential to demonstrate your compassion and enthusiasm for helping those affected by dementia. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive your desire to support this cause during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Dementia
While prior experience isn't required, having a basic understanding of dementia can be beneficial. Research common challenges faced by individuals with dementia and think about how you can help create a supportive environment during the sessions.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with service users, encourage participation, and make everyone feel welcome. Consider sharing examples of how you've successfully communicated in previous roles or situations.
✨Prepare for Virtual Sessions
Since some sessions may be held online, ensure you're comfortable using Zoom and other virtual tools. You might want to mention any relevant experience you have with technology, as well as your ability to adapt to different formats of engagement.