Supportive Independence Volunteers

What do Supportive Independence Volunteers do?

Supportive Independence volunteers are there to help people be more active and socially connected.

About Supportive Independence

We aim to build support for older people to stay connected, mobile, and engaged in their local community, enabling people to live independently at home for longer.

Our project works alongside with other services provided by Age UK Wiltshire for example we have Fitness & Friendship Clubs, wellbeing support, and access to information and advice on benefits, housing and social care.

When can I do this?

From Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm

What time commitment is expected?

Depending on the task itself but it could be from a quick 30-minute call to check on someone or could be over 2 hours from going to a client’s house and taking a bus journey with them, attending a Fitness & Friendship Club and returning home.

What are the practical considerations?

You must be over 18 and be prepared to undertake the training requirements.

Must be willing to undertake a DBS check.

What will you get out of it?

The satisfaction of making a difference in someone’s life.

An organisation induction to give you an overview of Age UK Wiltshire and an insight into all its’ services.

Training courses in subject areas such as, Safeguarding; Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Slips, Trips & Falls, First Aid

Out of pocket expenses.

Working as part of a team to help you develop new skills

Opportunities to bring new ideas to further development

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who are: 

Friendly and enjoy working with older people

Able to facilitate conversations and make new members feel welcome

Attentive about the safety of members and other volunteers

Able to work within a team

Flexible and willing to undertake agreed tasks

Reliable and organized person

Supportive Independence Volunteer job roles

Companionship

This role involves providing companionship and support to clients. This may take place either at the client's home or through various forms of communication, including telephone or email correspondence, where suitable. Your commitment to offering companionship and assistance contributes significantly to the well-being and social connection.

Time commitment: About 2 hours per visit.

Travel Companion

In this role, your responsibility is to assist clients with traveling, aiding them in reconnecting with communities, friends, and family. This includes supporting their use of public transport, community transport, and taxis, as well as addressing barriers such as anxiety and confidence issues related to being outdoors.

Time commitment: About 4 hours per outing, depending on distance and task.

Home Exercise Support

As strength and balance coach, your role involves visiting clients at their homes and guiding and encouraging them in performing seated exercises to enhance strength and balance. You'll utilize tools provided by us, including the Daily Dozen and resistance bands, to facilitate their physical well-being.

Time commitment: About 1:30 minutes per visit.