Carer Support Volunteer (Barnsley) - Role Information Pack

Carer Support Volunteer (Barnsley) Role information pack

At Swanswell, we believe in a society free from problem alcohol and drug use; that everyone deserves the chance to change and be happy.

We’re a market leading charity with an exciting programme of innovative new service developments and a team of committed people who are working hard to achieve our ambitions.

People are our greatest asset, so we recruit those with the flexibility and creativity to transfer their skills from one area of expertise to another; people whose desire to change lives for the better can help us to make a real and lasting difference.

1 Role description

Every year two million people become carers. Becoming a carer can be bewildering, confusing and frightening. No one is super human and most carers may need some support and back-up. Swanswell volunteers offer practical and emotional support to carers of substance misusers, helping them to cope and be happy. A carer would be assessed by a worker and a personalised support plan developed. The care plan details agreed goals and actions so that the carer’s needs can be met. This volunteer role requires you to work with the carer to achieve their specific goals.

If you have the ability to easily connect with people and show empathy then this role could be for you. You’ll work with carers in the community, supporting them to keep as much of their own life going as they can - work, friends, hobbies and interests.

There are many circumstances which can lead to carers needing help. They may:

 be exhausted or find certain caring tasks difficult and need to talk  be frustrated, angry or confused  have had a change in circumstances  find that caring is affecting their ability to carry on working as normal  find it difficult to find time for other family commitments and family members  be worried about the condition of the person they care for  blame themselves for their loved one’s issues

We’re looking for people who have the desire and ability to make a positive difference to people’s lives.

Hours The days and hours are flexible to suit your volunteering needs and our business arrangements, however a regular pattern would be great.

Transport This role may require travel, so a current driving licence and own transport would be great. Expenses will be paid for any travel as a result of your volunteering.

Support We’ll provide you with regular support sessions, giving you the opportunity to discuss your work with a supervisor.

2 Specific duties

Help the team in the following areas:

Giving information and guidance Refer and signpost carers to other services and existing groups who can help them

Giving support With guidance, help carers to achieve the goals in their support plan Support carers to join in with social activities Encourage carers to attend group sessions Be a good listener

Health and wellbeing Help carers to improve their health Help carers to manage their mental wellbeing

Recording and evaluation Complete paperwork after sessions Ensure notes of sessions are inputted or paperwork is received by office staff within 48 hours either by email or hand delivery Ongoing evaluation of benefits of the service

Personal qualities

Relate to others Work within and contribute to a friendly, supportive team environment Be non-judgemental Maintain clear personal and professional boundaries Promote equality and diversity

3 How to apply To apply for a Carer Support Volunteer opportunity, you can apply online at www.swanswell.org click on ‘volunteering’, then ‘apply now’.

To talk to someone about this role, call 01788 559 400 or email [email protected] with your name, a contact phone number and which role you’re interested in and we’ll call you back.