Support our Hospice as an IPU Activity and Engagement Volunteer
Regular 3–4 hour shifts, ideally between 2pm and 5pm, 7 days a week, with some flexibility.
Mealtimes, conversations, activities and simple moments of connection can make a real difference to someone staying on our Inpatient Unit.
We are looking for caring and compassionate volunteers to join our existing team and help patients feel less lonely, more connected and supported during their time at Ashgate.
As an Activity and Engagement Volunteer, you will spend time with patients, offering companionship and helping them enjoy activities that are meaningful to them. You will also support our mobile trolley shop, giving patients the opportunity to choose small items and treats during their stay.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Spending time with patients and offering friendly conversation and companionship.
- Supporting simple activities based on individual interests and abilities, such as word puzzles, writing letters, looking at photographs, watching television or sporting events, or simply having a chat.
- Helping patients access photographs or other things that are important to them on their phones or devices.
- Where appropriate and agreed with the clinical team, accompanying patients to the hospice gardens or other onsite areas.
- Supporting the mobile trolley shop by keeping it stocked, clean and organised, serving patients and accurately recording items sold.
- Helping patients and those important to them access information about other hospice services, referring queries to the appropriate member of staff where needed.
- Being aware that patients can have good and difficult days, and understanding that sometimes simply sitting with someone and offering a calm, reassuring presence is the most valuable thing you can do.
- Sharing any concerns or changes you notice with the nursing team.
- Working alongside the clinical team and within the boundaries of the volunteer role.
Who We’re Looking For
You don't need to have previous hospice experience, but you will need to be someone who is:
- Caring, compassionate, friendly and approachable.
- A good listener who is patient and respectful of individual needs and preferences.
- Comfortable spending time with people who may be experiencing difficult or emotional circumstances.
- Emotionally aware and able to respond sensitively to different situations.
- Comfortable working in a hospice environment and around people living with life-limiting illness.
- Reliable and able to commit to agreed volunteering shifts where possible.
- Able to maintain confidentiality and appropriate boundaries.
- Comfortable working as part of a wider team and taking guidance from clinical staff.
Applicants must be aged 16 or over. Full training, support and guidance will be provided to help you feel confident in the role.
Please note: The mobile trolley can be reasonably heavy and needs to be manoeuvred safely around the hospice, so this role requires a degree of physical ability.
What’s in It for You?
- The opportunity to develop and learn within a professional team
- The chance to make a meaningful impact while developing your own skills
- Full training to refresh or enhance your knowledge and keep everyone safe
- Full travel expenses reimbursed
- A supportive environment where your contribution is truly valued
- Full travel expenses paid
What Volunteers Can Expect
- To be treated fairly and equitably in line with hospice values
- A clear understanding of your role and responsibilities
- Appropriate training tailored to your role
- Ongoing support and guidance
- The resources and equipment needed to carry out your role
- A safe environment that respects health and safety
What the Hospice Expects from Volunteers
- Reflect the values, goals and standards of Ashgate Hospice
- Place patient care at the centre of everything you do
- Follow our Health and Safety Policy, Volunteer Policy, Code of Behaviour and Volunteer Handbook
- Participate in relevant training and development
- Seek support when needed
- Carry out duties professionally and safely
Important Information
- Volunteers must be aged 16 or over
- All volunteers are required to attend:
- Voluntary Statutory Training (3 hours)
- Ashgate Hospice Induction (3 hours)
- Local role-specific training will be provided
- Confidentiality around patient and hospice information is essential
- This role will require a standard DBS to be completed
Join us and help support those who support others.
Interested?
Please apply via our website and feel free to attach your CV or supporting information to tell us more about you and the knowledge, skills and experience you can bring.
To find out more about this role, please email:
📧 tracie.holocuk@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk
For general volunteering enquiries:
📞 01246 568801
📧 peopleservices@ashgatehospice.org.uk
Or visit:
🌐 https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/volunteering/
Who we are
For more information about us, please visit our website here.
Inpatient Unit (IPU) Activity & Engagement Volunteer in Chesterfield employer: Ashgate Hospicecare
Ashgate Hospice is an exceptional employer, dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. With a strong focus on employee development, we offer structured training programmes and opportunities for growth within a supportive and collaborative work culture. Located in the heart of North Derbyshire, our team enjoys a fulfilling work environment where they can make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families.
