At a Glance
- Tasks: Help facilitate a supportive group for RAF veterans with memory loss through social interaction.
- Company: Join the RAF Benevolent Fund, dedicated to enhancing veterans' wellbeing.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have travel costs reimbursed.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans while developing your communication skills.
- Qualifications: Empathy, approachability, and a willingness to learn; experience with dementia is a plus.
- Other info: Commit to one afternoon a month in a relaxed, friendly environment.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Volunteers are needed to help facilitate a monthly group for RAF veterans and their partners who are living with diagnosed or undiagnosed memory loss / dementia. The groups take place in Maidstone from 1‑3 pm on the last Wednesday of every month.
The RAF Benevolent Fund runs groups in the community for RAF veterans and their partners who have diagnosed or undiagnosed memory loss with the aim of enhancing their wellbeing through social contact and reminiscence. The groups are a very relaxed and fluid environment where the volunteers will mostly find themselves talking socially with the beneficiaries as a group or individually and helping with refreshments.
To support the running of the reminiscence group, volunteers are asked to:
- Welcome beneficiaries as they arrive, helping them settle in
- Proactively start up social conversations to ensure all group members are included
- Support with the sign‑up forms for anyone who is new to the group
- Assist with refreshments for the group where needed
- Listen if beneficiaries talk about any welfare needs they may have and either signpost them to additional Fund services (if known) and pass the information on to staff members to follow up
- Assisting beneficiaries in wheelchairs is optional
We are looking for volunteers who are able to make a fairly long term commitment to supporting the group on the afternoon of the last Wednesday of each month. Volunteers should be approachable, empathetic and flexible to the needs of others. Experience of communicating with individuals with memory loss is preferable but not essential. Volunteers in this role are subject to two character references and a DBS (Enhanced with adults barred list) check. We provide full training ahead of a volunteer’s start, with mandatory modules on dementia awareness and safeguarding, and can reimburse volunteers for the cost of their travel to the group.
Time Commitment: 1‑3 pm on the last Wednesday of every month.
Location: Gallagher Stadium, James Whatman Way, Maidstone ME14 1LQ
Number of volunteers required: 1
Application Process:
- Application Form
- ID Check
- References
- Informal discussion (may include an interview)
Skills and Attributes:
- Approachable
- Proactive
- Empathetic and thoughtful
- Flexible to the needs of others
- Experience communicating with people living with dementia is preferable
Dementia Reminiscence Group volunteer in Maidstone employer: Kentvolunteers
Contact Detail:
Kentvolunteers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dementia Reminiscence Group volunteer in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the RAF Benevolent Fund and their mission. This will help you connect with the team and show your genuine interest during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your conversational skills! Since you'll be engaging with veterans and their partners, brush up on your ability to start and maintain conversations. Think of topics that might resonate with them.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! Each group session may bring different dynamics, so being open to change and ready to support the needs of the beneficiaries is key.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate volunteers who are eager to make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Dementia Reminiscence Group volunteer in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and why you’re passionate about supporting veterans with memory loss.
Show Your Empathy: Since this role is all about connecting with individuals who may have memory loss, make sure to highlight any relevant experiences that showcase your empathy and understanding. We love seeing how you can relate to others!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we appreciate a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Make sure to answer all the questions directly and avoid any unnecessary fluff. We want to get to know you quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey to becoming a volunteer with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kentvolunteers
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Dementia Reminiscence Group volunteer. Understand the importance of social interaction for veterans and how your role can enhance their wellbeing. This will help you articulate your motivation during the interview.
✨Show Empathy
Demonstrate your empathetic nature by sharing any relevant experiences where you've supported individuals with memory loss or similar challenges. This will highlight your suitability for the role and show that you genuinely care about the beneficiaries.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the training provided, the types of activities in the group, or how they measure the success of the sessions. This shows your interest and commitment to the role.
✨Be Approachable
During the interview, maintain a friendly and open demeanour. Practice active listening and engage with the interviewer. Being approachable is key for this role, so let your personality shine through!