At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide soothing therapies to patients and carers, promoting relaxation and wellbeing.
- Company: Join a compassionate hospice team dedicated to supporting those with life-limiting illnesses.
- Benefits: Make a difference, gain experience, boost your CV, and be part of a friendly team.
- Other info: Receive full training and support while working in a rewarding environment.
- Why this job: Use your skills for a good cause and help improve people's quality of life.
- Qualifications: Qualified in massage or reflexology with at least one year of recent practice.
Volunteer Complementary Therapists help provide complementary therapies to patients and carers connected to the Wellbeing Service at the Hospice. The St Leonard’s Wellbeing Service encompasses a range of services to support patients affected by life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families, friends, and carers, across our region. Treatments take place in a dedicated therapy room under the direction of the Complementary Therapy Lead. When treating patients, treatments are short and generally very gentle due to the nature of their illnesses. This is a highly rewarding role helping to promote relaxation and a feeling of wellbeing. It is possible that this role will in time be extended to include treating visitors, staff, and volunteers.
Note: Volunteer Complementary Therapists are subject to an Enhanced DBS, checked against the Adult barred list.
When am I needed? We are specifically looking for volunteers who are qualified in massage or reflexology, Thursday mornings 9:30am-12:30pm, on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
What will I be doing? The role is likely to develop over time but initially your role will include:
- Providing pre-agreed complementary therapy according to your skill set and under the direction of the Complementary Therapy Lead
- Liaising with other staff and volunteers across the Hospice
- Preparing the therapy space prior to and after each treatment
- Making accurate records of treatments
- Maintaining the highest standards of practice and professional responsibility
- Reporting any concerns for a patient’s wellbeing, or any disclosures made to you, in a timely manner and in accordance with hospice safeguarding procedures (training will be given)
- Adhering to policies concerning confidentiality, infection prevention and control, moving and handling, and health and safety
What skills and qualities will I need?
- A nationally recognised qualification in your given therapy
- Current registration with a professional governing body and evidence of valid insurance
- Evidence of at least 1-year recent professional practice
- Be willing to undertake CPD activities and maintain active registration with a recognised Complementary Therapy body
- Be comfortable working with patients with life limiting illnesses – it might be possible to offer therapies to staff and volunteers only. Please let us know if this is your preference
- Be aware of contraindications or precautions in relation to the therapy practised and be able to adapt a treatment accordingly
- Be warm, compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental
- Be able to engage people and put them at their ease
- Have good quality listening skills – training and refresher training will be offered
- Be self-aware and able to reflect on your own experiences and feelings – regular opportunities to reflect will be offered by the wider Wellbeing Service staff
- Have a good understanding of personal and professional boundaries
- Be able to maintain confidentiality within the bounds of our safeguarding obligations
How will I benefit from being a volunteer Complementary Therapist?
- Use your time and skills for a good cause
- Make a huge difference to peoples’ sense of wellbeing
- Gain new skills and experiences
- Boost your CV
- Be part of a friendly and inclusive team
- Be valued and respected
Support and Supervision Volunteers will be supervised by the Complementary Therapy Lead who will provide you with full role training and support and liaise with you over all aspects of your role. Additional support will be provided by the wider Wellbeing Service team.
Training Volunteers are required to complete mandatory training modules which are usually delivered via our online platform. Additional, booster and refresher training may be delivered as needed via e-learning, video links or face to face. You may also be invited to attend role specific in person meetings where appropriate.
Volunteer Massage or Reflexology Therapist employer: St Leonard's Hospice
St Leonard’s Hospice is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience. Our flexible volunteering opportunities allow you to contribute to your local community in a supportive and inclusive environment, all while developing new skills and building confidence. Join our friendly team this summer and enjoy the satisfaction of making a real difference in the lives of others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Massage or Reflexology Therapist
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Dive into your community by volunteering with local mental health organisations or support groups. It’s a fantastic way to build connections, gain hands-on experience, and show your dedication to the field.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you're a student, tap into your university career services to find volunteering opportunities in therapy and counselling. Many universities have partnerships with local clinics and organisations looking for volunteers who are passionate about helping others.
✨Join Online Therapy Communities
Hop onto platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find groups dedicated to therapy and counselling. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can make you more visible to those looking for volunteers, plus you’ll learn a ton along the way.
✨Keep an Eye on Local Events
Watch out for mental health awareness days or workshops happening in your area. These events can be goldmines for meeting professionals in the field, plus you might find out about volunteering openings directly from the organisers. Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Massage or Reflexology Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the therapy and counselling fields, it’s super important to showcase any volunteer work or practical experience you've had. Whether it's work at a helpline, internship at a clinic, or even informal support roles, make sure to detail the skills you've gained that are relevant to the role at St Leonard's Hospice.
Show Your Passion for Helping Others:In your application, let your genuine motivation for wanting to help others come through. Share personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate why you’re interested in volunteering in therapy and counselling—this helps us see your heart for it and connects your experiences to what St Leonard's Hospice does.
Include Relevant Qualifications or Coursework:If you've completed any relevant courses, certifications, or even workshops related to counselling or therapy, don’t forget to mention them! Listing these in your CV can set you apart and shows that you're committed to developing your skills further, which is crucial in a volunteering role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Organisation:When crafting your cover letter for the volunteer position at St Leonard's Hospice, make sure to address why you specifically want to volunteer with us. Research our values, mission, and any current initiatives we’re involved in to create a personalised letter that demonstrates your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Leonard's Hospice
✨Know Your Techniques
Brush up on the specific therapy techniques or approaches you've studied. Whether it's CBT, person-centred therapy, or another method, being able to discuss these in the interview will show your understanding and preparation for the role at St Leonard's Hospice.
✨Show Your Empathy
Since we’re aiming for a volunteer role in therapy or counselling, be prepared to showcase your interpersonal skills and empathy. Consider having examples ready that demonstrate how you've supported others in past situations, even in non-professional contexts. This can really resonate with the interviewers.
✨Discuss Your Motivation
With volunteer roles, employers at St Leonard's Hospice will be keen to hear about your motivation. Be honest about why you want to volunteer in therapy and how this experience fits into your personal or career goals. This openness can make a strong impression!
✨Reflect on Ethical Dilemmas
Be ready to tackle questions about ethical dilemmas in therapy. The interview might involve scenario-based questions where they want to see how you prioritize client welfare and confidentiality. Think through a few examples so you can respond confidently during the chat!
