Ward Helper

                Volunteer Role Title

Ward Helper Volunteer

Location

Whittington

In patient ward

Hours

Saturdays

10am - 1pm (approx)

2pm - 5pm (approx)

Role Purpose

St Giles Hospice offers emotional, physical and practical support for our patients, and those important to them. Whether it’s helping with pain relief, supporting a loved one or just being there to listen, we understand that sometimes it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference.

The role of the hospice ward volunteer is to support the structure and organisation of the In-Patient Unit by supporting the clinical and facilities teams on the ward to ensure that every patient and their family members have a positive experience.

Ward Volunteers play a vital role in helping patients feel cared about, comfortable and relaxed.

What will I be doing?

• Assist staff to serve lunch, snacks and refreshments
• Change patients water jugs as and when required
• Take dirty crockery after patients have finished eating to the main kitchen
• Collect clean cups and cutlery from the main kitchen to stock up the IPU
• Keep the visitor’s kitchen clean and tidy
• Provide a welcoming supportive environment to the patients and visitors
• Replenish the linen on the ward
• Ensure that all medical queries are directed to the nurse in charge
• Help to make sure general ward areas are kept tidy
• Maintain the highest standards of personal and professional integrity
• Implement equal opportunities in your daily work, ensuring patients and the families cultural needs are respected
• Report any concerns to the ward manager or the volunteer manager
• Follow all policies and procedures relating to your own role
• Help with other duties as may reasonably be required from time to time
• In the event of accidents or emergencies, report these immediately to the ward manager or nurse in charge 
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times
• Be sympathetic to the concept of the hospice

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, we will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people in the hospice
• An induction and settling in period
• Any training and development that is needed
• Add your volunteering activity to your CV, and get a reference
• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team
• Support within your role
• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses
• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution
• Improved wellbeing and feeling good about helping others.

What do I need? 

• Good active listening and effective communication
• Experience of working with people in a group setting
• Be able to use your own initiative and ask for help when needed
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Emotional resilience and self-awareness, empathetic and patient
• Be able to communicate clearly and effectively

•     Someone who is creative/resourceful
•     Someone who has good listening skills
•     This role is subject to a Standard DBS check