At a Glance
- Tasks: Support patients emotionally and practically during their hospital stay.
- Company: Burwood Hospital is dedicated to providing compassionate care for older persons' health.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in healthcare and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Why this job: Join a rewarding programme that enriches both your life and the lives of others.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a commitment to support and empathy.
- Other info: This is a volunteer role requiring 2-3 hours weekly for a minimum of 6 months.
Nau mai, Haere mai koutou katoa
Do you want to:
- Make a difference in someone\’s life during a vulnerable time?
- Gain an understanding of volunteering in healthcare and become a valuable member of the hospital team?
- Gain work experience which may benefit your career?
About the Kōwhai Programme
The Kowhai Programme trains volunteers to provide person-centred emotional tautoko/support and manaaki/practical assistance to patients in hospital. The programme also supports whānau/family or carers when they are unable to be with their loved ones or support patients without family support.
About the Kōwhai Companion Role
Please note this is a volunteer position and is unpaid. As a Kōwhai Companion, you will provide support similar to that usually provided by whānau or friends. This is a non-patient contact role and excludes any personal cares. You will learn about the patient\’s background, whānau, identity, preferences, and activities they enjoy to engage with them meaningfully.
Kōwhai Companions support patients experiencing memory and thinking problems such as delirium, dementia, or those who benefit from face-to-face companionship. This programme has been active at Burwood Hospital since January 2022.
What has been said about the Kōwhai Programme
\”Being a Kōwhai Companion gives me purpose and reward beyond what I can adequately describe. I give my time and care to patients once a week and in return, I hear stories, see smiles, share laughs, and learn new life lessons. This programme has been more beneficial to me during my hospital stay than anything else. Having someone to take me outside gave me something to look forward to. I felt really happy knowing someone could be with Mum in the evenings, especially since she gets frightened and staff can\’t always be there. They are lovely people.\”
If you have two to three hours weekly, are willing to commit for a minimum of 6 months, and want to make a difference, apply now.
Contact & Application
For further information, contact Jane Kandhai, Programme Coordinator
Email: jane.kandhai@cdhb.health.nz
Phone: 021 374 987
To apply, please email jane.kandhai@cdhb.health.nz with:
- A CV and/or a letter about yourself
- Why you want to become a Kōwhai Companion
- What you will bring to the role
- Your availability
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KōWhai Companions - Volunteers | Burwood Hospital Older Persons Health employer: CGR Services
Contact Detail:
CGR Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land KōWhai Companions - Volunteers | Burwood Hospital Older Persons Health
✨Tip Number 1
Before applying, take some time to research the Kōwhai Programme and its impact on patients and their families. Understanding the programme's goals will help you articulate your passion for volunteering and how you can contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider reaching out to current or past Kōwhai Companions to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to highlight your commitment and understanding of the role during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your availability and commitment clearly. Since the role requires a minimum of 6 months, being upfront about your schedule will demonstrate your reliability and dedication to the programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Think about specific examples from your life where you've provided support or companionship to others. Sharing these stories can help illustrate your empathy and suitability for the Kōwhai Companion role during any discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace KōWhai Companions - Volunteers | Burwood Hospital Older Persons Health
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take some time to fully understand what being a Kōwhai Companion entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the impact you can have on patients' lives.
Craft Your CV: Tailor your CV to highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the Kōwhai Companion role. Emphasise any previous volunteer work, especially in healthcare or community services.
Write a Personal Letter: In your application, include a letter explaining why you want to become a Kōwhai Companion. Share your motivations and how you believe you can contribute to the programme and support patients effectively.
Be Clear About Availability: Clearly state your availability in your application. Since the role requires a commitment of two to three hours weekly for a minimum of six months, make sure to outline when you can dedicate time to this important work.
How to prepare for a job interview at CGR Services
✨Understand the Role
Before the interview, make sure you fully understand what being a Kōwhai Companion entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the impact you can have on patients' lives. This will help you articulate your motivations and how you can contribute.
✨Share Personal Experiences
Think about any relevant experiences you have that demonstrate your empathy and ability to connect with others. Sharing personal stories about times you've supported someone or volunteered can show your passion for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the training process, the types of patients you might encounter, and how the programme supports volunteers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Express Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer position requiring a commitment of at least six months, be clear about your availability and willingness to dedicate time. Highlighting your reliability and dedication will reassure the interviewers of your suitability for the role.