Northern Health Volunteers

Volunteers provide a service to all patients of the Forensic Mental Health Service at James Nash House. They are responsible to the Team Leader James Nash House through Senior Social Worker and the Team Leader Ashton House. Ultimate responsibility is to the Management Committee of the Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association Incorporated via the Executive Officer.

Duties:

• Working under the support of forensic mental health staff
• Communication with staff and patients
• Assisting patients to participate in leisure and educational programs
• Address spiritual and cultural needs of patients
• Provide verbal handover to staff at the end of each session
• At the request of staff, provide a written summary of individual progress of patients

Essential Attributes

• A demonstrated ability to work with others, particularly with a genuine interest in working with people with complex mental health issues
• Reliable, trustworthy, honest and able to respect and non-judgemental
• Understanding of and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Be aware of personal boundaries when dealing with inappropriate behaviours e.g. If patients ask for personal details they are to be advised that it’s not permitted or developing a relationship/friendship with patients
• Interpersonal skills including listening and communication skills
• Open to accepting direction and supervision
• Ability to relate to individuals with diverse cultural and religious values
• An understanding of Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare
• Adherence to the SA Health Code of Conduct and respectful behaviour policy