Volunteering

THINKING ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

There are varied voluntary roles available within Age UK South Gloucestershire, and you can choose the role that suits your interests, skills & abilities, and what works around your existing commitments.  Whichever role you choose, you will have the full support of the team based in the Thornbury office and all relevant training. The current roles available are:

BEFRIENDER

As a Befriender, you will have an assigned client with whom you offer friendly companionship. This can be either over the telephone or in person (the choice of which is completely up to you) for around 1 hour per week. We understand that everyone’s lives are busy, which is why the flexibility of befriending is perfect, as you can work it fully around your existing commitments. Many of our befriending clients are housebound, so this service is hugely valuable as you may be the only person aside from carers that they will see regularly. The only ‘skills’ required, are to be open, friendly, non-judgemental & sensitive to the needs to the older community.

DIGITAL INCLUSION

Providing basic IT Support to the older community, you will help them to feel less isolated and increase their independence. The support is client led, and you will help to guide them with basic IT skills such as emails, internet shopping, and social media. You do not need to be trained in IT, but perhaps you use these elements on a regular basis yourself and would have the patience and sensitivity needed to teach others? Much of this work is 1:1, with plans to start group work in the near future.

WALKING PROJECT

Many of our clients have lost confidence in simply going outdoors. Walking group volunteers will aid clients to take part in short walks, with the added treat of a coffee shop at the end of the walk. Fresh air and company are invaluable to these clients, and you will be encouraging the clients in their physical ability as well as improving their general mental and emotional health by attending the walks. No previous experience needed – as long as you like being in the outdoors and making conversation, then get in touch.

OFFICE SUPPORT

We need volunteers to help take calls for our main reception/Information and Advice Team. You do not need to have prior experience, or be knowledgeable around Information and Advice, but simply a warm and professional telephone manner with basic IT skills to be able to take incoming calls and signpost to the relevant team, along with the ability to undertake other general office admin tasks.

For more information please follow ths link - https://www.ageuk.org.uk/southgloucestershire/get-involved/volunteer/