Befrienders for residents in a Nursing home

References:

Professional references can be from a current or past employer, someone you have worked with or volunteered with, or from an education setting such as a teacher. They must have known you for at least two years. 

Character references must be from someone who knows you well on a personal level. It can be a friend, or someone you work with, volunteer with etc. It cannot be a family member. They must have known you personally for at least two years. 

DBS - You will be required to complete a DBS check. You will need photo and proof of address ID for this. 

Process:

You will need an account to register your interest for this role. Once you have registered your interest you will receive an automatic email with next steps. If you have not received this in a couple of hours, please do get in touch as it may not have registered (volunteering@hiveportsmouth.org.uk). 

You will need to respond to the "Criteria Check" email to progress with this role. 

Please check your junk email folder in case any emails end up there.  Friendly reminder that the charities/organisations emails may end up here too. 

Don't forget you can add up any volunteering hours as part of Team 100 Opportunity - Hive Portsmouth or part of the Donate 100 things challenge Opportunity - Hive Portsmouth.

Skills

Empathy & Compassion: Understanding the emotional needs of socially isolated or end-of-life individuals and offering them comfort and companionship with kindness.

Good Communication: Being able to listen actively and engage in meaningful conversation, while also respecting the wishes and limitations of the person you’re visiting.

Patience: Some residents may have physical or cognitive impairments, so being patient and understanding is crucial.

Reliability & Commitment: Since these visits can be life-changing for the residents, being dependable and following through with your time commitment will have a positive impact.

Sensitivity to End-of-Life Issues: Comfortably engaging with people at the end of their lives, respecting their emotions, and understanding the environment of a nursing home.

Flexibility: The ability to adapt to different interests and needs, whether you’re working on a puzzle, having a conversation, or engaging in other activities.

Respect for Privacy: Understanding the importance of confidentiality and respecting personal space and boundaries.

Problem-Solving: The ability to adapt your approach if a person’s mood or needs change during a visit.