At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in hospitals by ensuring they know their rights and access advocacy.
- Company: VoiceAbility, a leading charity focused on advocacy and community involvement.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop communication skills, and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Why this job: Join us to empower others and enjoy personal fulfilment while connecting with your community.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18 and living in the UK; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of just 3 hours a week; weekdays only.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility.
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website – www.voiceability.org.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer positions currently available in Thurrock
Hospital Visitor Volunteers based within Basildon or Rochford Hospitals on a Friday (those that do not drive may struggle to attend these locations). Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
- hold drop-in sessions
- attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
- share information
- assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
Volunteer Hospital Visitor – Connect People with Advocacy in Slough employer: VoiceAbility
Contact Detail:
VoiceAbility Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Hospital Visitor – Connect People with Advocacy in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before you step into that interview, do a bit of homework on VoiceAbility. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your own experiences align with their goals. This will help you connect better during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. Focus on common questions like why you want to volunteer and how you can contribute. The more comfortable you are, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time for the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you're talking about your motivation to volunteer, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to advocacy and helping others. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Hospital Visitor – Connect People with Advocacy in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for advocacy shine through! We want to see why you’re excited about volunteering with VoiceAbility and how you can make a difference in the community.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the role of a Hospital Visitor. We love seeing how your background connects to what we do!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your motivations and qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at VoiceAbility
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, take some time to really understand what being a Volunteer Hospital Visitor entails. Familiarise yourself with the Mental Health Act and the role of an IMHA qualified advocate. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
VoiceAbility is all about ensuring that people are heard when it matters most. During your interview, share personal experiences or motivations that drive your passion for advocacy and helping others. This will demonstrate your commitment to the cause and how you can contribute positively to the team.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation, the volunteer role, and the impact you can make. This shows that you’re engaged and serious about the opportunity, plus it gives you valuable insights into whether this role is right for you.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
As a Volunteer Hospital Visitor, strong communication skills are essential. Be ready to discuss any relevant experiences where you've effectively communicated with diverse groups or individuals. Use specific examples to illustrate how you can connect with people and support them in accessing advocacy services.