At a Glance
- Tasks: Support uplifting singing sessions for people with memory loss and encourage participation.
- Company: Liberal Jewish Synagogue, a welcoming community hub.
- Benefits: Gain joy from helping others and flexible volunteering hours.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy refreshments while volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while enjoying music together.
- Qualifications: No singing skills required; just a passion for helping others.
Singing for the Mind is a long-established, weekly singing session at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue in St John’s Wood for people with memory loss, led by a trained song leader. Participants come with a carer or family member, or can come on their own if they have capacity to do so. The group is open to all local people as well as members of the synagogue. Refreshments are served before and after the singing, which provides a welcome chance for participants and carers to chat freely.
Volunteers say: "We find the singing sessions as uplifting as the participants tell us they do." "It’s heartwarming to see how much the participants enjoy the music and how much they can relax and join in increasingly over a single session." Volunteers are often told that these sessions are the ‘highlight of the week’ for many participants. The group meets every Thursday afternoon. Volunteers are present from 1.30 to 4pm.
Key responsibilities of the volunteers:
- Generally, supporting the running of the session and joining in.
- Encouraging participants to join in.
- Facilitating introductions and conversation with participants during the informal parts of the sessions.
- Helping with refreshments.
It is not necessary to be able to sing well! Volunteers work closely together as a team with ongoing support from the synagogue’s Community Care Co‑ordinator. You don’t have to commit to volunteer every week. Volunteers will help to make the sessions an enjoyable experience for all participants.
What additional skills or experience you should have: None needed.
What training we will provide for you: Training will be given.
What you will get out of volunteering for us: Volunteers get as much enjoyment as the participants.
Location: The Liberal Jewish Synagogue, St John’s Wood
Mode: In-Person
Age limit: Volunteers of any age
Hours per session: Between 3 and 4 hours
Availability: Flexible OR Ongoing
We are happy to be flexible on location and/or times if required.
Singing for the Mind Volunteer employer: Jewish Volunteering Network
Contact Detail:
Jewish Volunteering Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Singing for the Mind Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before you apply, check out the Liberal Jewish Synagogue's website and social media. Understanding their values and community can help you connect better during your volunteering sessions.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! When you’re volunteering, it’s all about being genuine. Don’t worry about singing perfectly; just join in and have fun with the participants. Your enthusiasm will be infectious!
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with everyone! Use your time to chat with participants and their carers during refreshments. Building those connections can make the sessions even more enjoyable for everyone involved.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible! Since the sessions are held weekly, being adaptable with your availability can really help. If you can’t commit every week, that’s totally fine—just let us know when you can volunteer!
We think you need these skills to ace Singing for the Mind Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and why you’re excited about volunteering with us. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for music and helping others.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about any skills or experiences that could be relevant. Have you ever worked with people with memory loss or been part of a community group? Share those stories with us!
Show Your Enthusiasm: We love seeing applicants who are genuinely excited about the role. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for singing and supporting participants during the sessions. It’s all about creating a joyful atmosphere!
Apply Through Our Website: To make things easier for both of us, please apply through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jewish Volunteering Network
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Singing for the Mind Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities like supporting sessions, encouraging participation, and facilitating conversations. This will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute.
✨Show Your Passion for Music and Community
Even if you’re not a great singer, express your love for music and how it can uplift people. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your connection to community service or working with individuals who have memory loss. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Think of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the types of activities you might be involved in or how the team collaborates during sessions. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself and Stay Positive
During the interview, let your personality shine through! The role is all about creating a warm and welcoming environment, so being authentic and positive will go a long way. Remember, they want to see how you can connect with participants and make their experience enjoyable.