Independent Living Service Volunteer (Assisted Discharge Service - Leighton)

For people leaving hospital, adjusting to life at home can be a difficult time. Helping someone get their essential shopping, pick up their prescription or get the heating turned on can make all the difference for them to feel safe at home. We would like you to: - Volunteer for 16 hours per month between 11:30 -19:00 Monday to Friday. - Have held a driving licence for at least 2 years which allows you to drive vehicles in the UK. Be willing to drive a Red Cross vehicle transporting Service users home from hospital. - Volunteers should live within 30 minutes travel time of Leighton Hospital, CW1 4QJ. **Due to the nature of this role, applicants must undergo an Enhanced with Adults barred Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.** **Health and Safety Statement** We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment. We will also have a conversation with you to discuss any restrictions that may still be in place in your region and identify any adjustments you may need. If you have any questions before applying please contact us at volunteerrecruitment@redcross.org.uk
Why we want you: If you are compassionate and like helping and meeting people, then this could be the role for you. Volunteers like you support people who are leaving hospital, helping to build their confidence so that they can continue to live independently in their own home.

• Tasks: Visit people in hospital as they are getting ready to go home.
  Bring people home from hospital.
  Help someone settle in when they first arrive home.
  Support with shopping and collecting prescriptions.
  Help people find further support if they need it.
  Keep records of tasks.

• Skills: Warm and friendly with empathy for others.
  Good communication skills.
  Encouraging and supportive.
  Enjoy meeting and spending time with new people.
  Can work independently and as a part of a team.
  Able to commit to a regular shift.

• Benefits: Meet new people and be part of a dynamic and inclusive team.
  A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones.
  All training and induction for the role (there is no charge for training).
  Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses for the role including for attending training.
  An opportunity to be part of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation and the knowledge that you are making a difference to people’s lives.