Would you like to support older people in your local community?
Do you have a few hours to spare on a weekly basis?
MHA Communities - Hampshire Central is a charity offering volunteer-based support and friendship to older people living in their own homes; helping to maintain independent living, improve well-being, and reduce isolation and loneliness. We aim to help older people maintain their independence by offering opportunities for companionship, support, and advice.
MHA Communities - Hampshire Central is supported by volunteers who assist in a variety of different ways.
What would I be doing as a Volunteer Club Helper?
We require volunteers to help out at various clubs we run during the week. Volunteers are required to assist with the smooth running of the club, which involves:
* Setting up and clearing away chairs, tables, and equipment
* Welcoming and assisting members during the activity
* Serving refreshments
* Clearing away after the club
We run a variety of different clubs throughout the week, such as exercise classes, walking groups, lunch clubs, and activity days held at various venues in Winchester - please enquire to find out about current volunteering opportunities.
Skills
Skills and qualities needed for the role are:
* Patience, empathy, and understanding of the needs of older people
* The ability to engage yourself and others in a wide range of activities
* Reliability and punctuality
* Flexibility
* A clear sense of personal boundaries
* The ability to provide a supportive and non-judgmental service
* Willingness to join in with training and development
* Ability to maintain confidentiality
* Kitchen experience desirable for Lunch Club
* Art and craft skills are desirable for Activity Day
* An interest in exercise and sports for our Exercise Classes
What impact would I have?
Volunteers are at the heart of our clubs and are essential for us to be able to run our varied weekly schedule of activities. We encourage volunteers to share their skills and interests with our members and help support the smooth running of the groups.
Our members benefit enormously by attending regular exercise classes, which strengthen muscles, reduce the risk of falls, and improve mental health and emotional well-being. Our group clubs and activities support members by reducing isolation and loneliness as well as supporting the development of new friendships.
Why volunteer for MHA?
If you are passionate about caring for older people, MHA is the place for you. We are a national charity inspiring the best care at every stage of later life. It is our mission to enable people to live later life well, and you could help us achieve this. We will provide you with ongoing training, support, and advice throughout your volunteering experience.
How to get involved?
Initially, we will contact you by phone or email to have an informal discussion regarding our current volunteering opportunities, discuss your suitability for the role, and your availability.
Our Central Volunteering Team will carry out the onboarding and induction process with you remotely.
You will need to:
* Provide details of two character references who you have known for at least 2 years
* Attend an online induction (usually by Teams)
* Complete a DBS application online (including providing suitable ID)
* Complete various online training courses depending on the volunteer role. Courses may include, for example, Safeguarding, Dementia Friends, and First Aid.
Volunteers benefit from local support during your volunteering role, annual reviews, ongoing training, and out-of-pocket expenses.
The United Church
Jewry Street
Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 8RZ
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