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- Tasks: Support individuals in care homes and hospitals to ensure their voices are heard.
- Company: VoiceAbility is a leading charity advocating for individuals' rights and wellbeing across the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop communication skills, and make a real difference in your community.
- Why this job: Join a rewarding role that challenges you while connecting with diverse individuals and making an impact.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18, living in the UK, and willing to undergo a DBS check.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of just 3 hours per week; no weekend or evening shifts available.
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 advocacy and our services, please visit our website – www.voiceability.org.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility allows you to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles are rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, all while experiencing personal fulfilment. We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer more if you wish. Whether you want to give back, learn something new, or enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer Positions Available in Bedfordshire
- Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs, wishes, and wants. Some need support with this but lack friends or family to assist them. RPRs and volunteers support these individuals to ensure they receive the care they deserve. Your role involves collaborating with the VoiceAbility RPR to ensure a person’s views are considered in care decisions.
As an RPR Support Volunteer, you might:
- Visit people in their care homes to ensure they’re receiving proper care and support
- Discuss their feelings, thoughts, and wishes
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference in someone’s life
- Hospital Visitor Volunteers
Hospital volunteers visit settings to ensure that individuals detained under the Mental Health Act are aware of their legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. They help clients access advocacy support and support advocates’ work. This role involves weekly visits to Townsend Court and Poplar Wards (Luton) on Fridays (1-4 pm) or Fountains Court (Bedford) on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
- Hold drop-in sessions
- Attend events and ward meetings
- Share information
- Assist people in requesting advocacy support via forms or calls
- Support Session Volunteer
You will support individuals over 18 with disabilities, including those with mental health issues, learning difficulties, autism, and other disabilities. Your role involves supporting clients to understand and undertake tasks on a one-to-one basis, tailored to individual needs.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
- Help people have their say when it matters most
- Assist individuals in navigating challenges and meeting their needs
- Support people in making complaints and using local services
All volunteering occurs Monday to Friday, between 09:00 and 17:00. You must be over 18 and living in the UK. Please note, there are no weekend or evening opportunities.
Safeguarding and Inclusion
VoiceAbility is committed to safeguarding all clients. Volunteers will need to undertake a DBS check and provide contact details for two referees, in line with our safer recruitment practices. We promote an inclusive workplace that values diversity and treats everyone equally. As a Disability Confident employer, we encourage applicants with disabilities who meet the role’s essential criteria to apply. For alternative application options, please contact our Volunteering team.
Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire employer: VoiceAbility
Contact Detail:
VoiceAbility Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with VoiceAbility's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to advocacy and inclusion will help you align your motivations with theirs, making it easier to express your passion for the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former volunteers of VoiceAbility. They can provide valuable insights into the volunteering experience and may even offer tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your interpersonal skills and experiences in supporting others. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference in someone's life, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to show your commitment to safeguarding and inclusion. Familiarise yourself with relevant policies and practices, as this will highlight your understanding of the responsibilities that come with the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the volunteer positions. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your motivation for volunteering with VoiceAbility. Share your passion for advocacy and how you can contribute to making a difference in the community.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Include any previous volunteering or work experience that relates to the role. Emphasise skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork, which are crucial for supporting individuals in care settings.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at VoiceAbility
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the volunteer position. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks of an RPR Support Volunteer or Hospital Visitor Volunteer, as this will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with the role.
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
VoiceAbility is all about ensuring that individuals are heard and supported. During the interview, express your passion for advocacy and helping others. Share any relevant experiences where you've made a difference in someone's life or community.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation, its values, and the impact of the volunteer roles. This shows your genuine interest and helps you determine if VoiceAbility is the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
As a volunteer, effective communication is key. Be ready to discuss your communication style and provide examples of how you've successfully interacted with diverse groups of people. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with clients and colleagues alike.
