At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in care homes and hospitals to ensure their voices are heard.
- Company: VoiceAbility is a leading charity advocating for those needing support in health and wellbeing decisions.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop communication skills, and enjoy personal fulfilment while making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community and connect with diverse individuals while learning new skills.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18 and living in the UK; no prior experience required.
- Other info: Minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week; flexible volunteering opportunities 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 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 Newham
- Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs, wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
- Hospital Visitor Volunteer – Mondays and Wednesdays 9 am- 4 pm
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
- Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
- Help people have their say when it matters most
- Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
- Help people to make complaints and use local services
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 with VoiceAbility in Newham employer: VoiceAbility
Contact Detail:
VoiceAbility Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Newham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with VoiceAbility's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to advocacy and the specific needs of the community will help you articulate why you're passionate about volunteering with them.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or past volunteers. They can provide insights into their experiences and share tips on how to effectively engage with clients, which will be invaluable during your volunteering journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend any introductory sessions or training offered by VoiceAbility. This not only shows your commitment but also equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to support clients effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to connect with the community. Volunteering is about making a difference, so look for ways to engage with clients and understand their needs beyond the basic requirements of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Newham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the RPR Support Volunteer or Hospital Visitor Volunteer roles. Understand the responsibilities and how you can contribute to making a difference in people's lives.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, skills, and any previous volunteering work. Emphasise your communication skills and any experience working with vulnerable individuals or in advocacy roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your passion for advocacy and helping others. Share personal experiences that demonstrate your commitment to supporting individuals in need and explain why you want to volunteer with VoiceAbility.
Provide References: Prepare a list of at least two referees who can vouch for your character and suitability for the role. Ensure they are aware that they may be contacted by VoiceAbility regarding your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at VoiceAbility
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the RPR Support Volunteer or Hospital Visitor Volunteer. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks and how they contribute to the overall mission of VoiceAbility.
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
VoiceAbility is all about ensuring that individuals have their voices heard. Be prepared to discuss why advocacy matters to you and share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to helping others.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation, the team you'll be working with, and the impact of your role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
As a volunteer, effective communication is key. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully communicated with diverse groups or individuals in the past, especially in challenging situations.