Befriender
Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Services
To befriend an adult with dementia or their carer, to improve their self-confidence, emotional health and wellbeing, reducing their social isolation and promote their independence.
Where (Location): To provide 1:1 Befriending to an allocated person within Gravesham, Dartford and Swanley Time commitment: 2-3 hours per week /fortnight Role: To befriend an adult with dementia or their carer, to improve their self-confidence, emotional health and wellbeing, reducing their social isolation and promote their independence. Responsibilities: • To visit a person with whom you have been matched, building a relationship of friendship and trust • To give the person some company and companionship in their own home • To complete a visit sheet after each visit and to participate in regular supervision with the Befriending Coordinator • To liaise, at times, with organisation name staff or other agencies as appropriate • To uphold organisation name core principles, vision, culture and values and abide by the policies and procedures as per the volunteer handbook • If a person needs more support the volunteer should report this to the Volunteer Coordinator (when needs change) Qualities and Skills required • To be reliable and have a genuine interest in the desire to make a difference in the lives of people with dementia • Good communication skills • Patience and a warm and friendly attitude • The ability to speak another language is welcomed Training and support • You will be required to attend the Befriending Induction training and participate in further training and/or networking events which may be offered. • Ongoing support and supervision will be given by the Befriending coordinator either in person or via skype/telephone. • Regular reviews will take place and an opportunity given for peer support through networking events with other Befrienders • Regular newsletters, updates and news from the Befriending Service will be sent to you by email • Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses such as mileage or public transport costs. Any other Requirements Due to the vulnerable nature of the people we support we will require two references and also DBS checks. Further details will be discussed with you at recruitment.
Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Community Work
Talking To Others
• To be reliable and have a genuine interest in the desire to make a difference in the lives of people with dementia • Good communication skills • Patience and a warm and friendly attitude • The ability to speak another language is welcomed
Many people living with dementia feel lonely – and so do those who love and care for them. A befriender can ease isolation and loneliness and make life more enjoyable. Everyone needs a friend but a dementia diagnosis can, sadly, bring a stigma with it which may mean that old friends start slipping away. However, this doesn’t have to lead to social isolation. Befriending schemes and support groups can lead to new, long-lasting friendships.
2-3 hours a week ongoing
N/A
Dartford, Gravesham or Swanley areas
N/A
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