AN INTRODUCTION TO VOLUNTEERING WITH SWAFFHAM SUPPORT SERVICES                                                                                                         

We should like to thank you for considering a volunteering role with Age Concern Swaffham & District’s Swaffham Support Services. It is a most worthwhile undertaking from which we are sure you will benefit, and in the process, you will come to meet a lot of like-minded people and become part of a well supported, friendly local team, who in turn may well become life-long friends.

Please feel free to contact us should you have any questions about the roles, we would be pleased to answer them for you.

Why become a volunteer?

Volunteering can be rewarding and offers people the opportunity to:

·         Develop new skills, with training and support

·         Put their knowledge and experience to use by helping the local community

·         Meet new people and make new friends

·         Develop personal confidence

·         Enhance their work experience and CV

·         Gain the knowledge that just a little of their time can make a massive difference to the lives of someone living in their community

Becoming a volunteer with Swaffham Support Services:

Swaffham Support Services (Age Concern Swaffham and District) and has had volunteers for many years, however we could always support more people in the area. Our Befrienders and Hospital Buddies come from all walks of life, backgrounds and ages and have been recruited from the local community having approached us of their own volition, wishing to give their time to others freely, and without cost.

When a potential volunteer approaches us, they are assessed for suitability to the Service; an enhanced DBS check is carried out and two references are sought. Once DBS authorisation and both references are received, the volunteer will then undergo a short induction session which will enable them to learn more about the roles and to understand the Codes of Practice laid down both to protect the volunteer and to enable the volunteer to work safely on his/her own. During your time in the Charity, you will be encouraged to attend training sessions, will be invited to attend a series of social events, as well as being offered regular reviews to ensure that you remain fully equipped, confident and happy to continue to carry out your voluntary role.

A programme of talks by professional organisations, training sessions and social events is provided on a regular basis to all Volunteers.  The programme can involve talks on health and social care issues, training or general understanding and information on certain health conditions. The social side of the programme usually involves a summer picnic, visits to a restaurant, or Christmas luncheon and coffee mornings for a generally getting together for a chat and peer support.

You will quickly become part of a very supportive and enthusiastic team. 

Do you have any of these qualities?

• Good listening skills
• Enjoyment of social contact
• Ability to motivate and encourage people
• Sense of humour
• Reliability and honesty
• Patience and understanding