ISMHU Engage
Intermediate Stay Mental Health Unit - James Fletcher Hospital Campus, Newcastle
Are you calm, kind, and interested in making a meaningful difference?
We are seeking compassionate volunteers to join ISMHU Engage, a volunteer program at the Intermediate Stay Mental Health Unit (ISMHU) on the James Fletcher campus in Newcastle.
Volunteers support people receiving care by providing companionship, gentle activities, and a calm presence in shared spaces. This role is focused on building connection and enhancing the emotional wellbeing of people staying in the unit.
Key Tasks:
- Engagement Activities: Support creative, recreational, and sensory activities such as colouring, art, puzzles, board games, music conversations, and light outdoor games like table tennis.
- Companionship: Spend time with consumers in common areas, offering light conversation, connection, and emotional support in a respectful, professional manner.
- Supportive Environment: Help create a warm and welcoming space for engagement by tidying activity areas, gathering materials, and collaborating with staff.
Skills and Experience Required:
We are looking for volunteers who are calm, caring, and reliable.
Ideal volunteers will have:
- Strong Interpersonal Skills: Able to build rapport with a wide range of people in a respectful, non-judgmental way.
- Empathy and Understanding: A compassionate approach to people experiencing mental health challenges.
- Resilience and Presence: Comfortable being in an inpatient setting and able to remain grounded and calm.
- Professional Boundaries: Able to maintain a warm but professional relationship and follow safety procedures.
- Commitment: Willing to attend one regular shift per week and be a consistent presence in the program.
Shift Times:
- Mondays: 10:00am – 12:00 noon
- Wednesdays: 2:00pm – 4:30pm
- Fridays: 2:00pm – 4:30pm
