Why volunteer? Expand By volunteering for the Ayrshire Hospice you are contributing to the services we offer to patients and families helping to make a difference in someone’s life by ‘Making Today Matter’ Volunteering offers a vast range of opportunities and benefits both to our organisation and to you as an individual. You will meet new people and build friendships whilst having the opportunity to use your skills and learn new ones. Volunteering is a great opportunity to build confidence and self-esteem and could be a stepping stone to preparing for employment and gaining work experience. Getting a current reference for your CV or University Application (UCAS) is also something you can gain.
What can I do as a volunteer? Expand We have many different volunteer opportunities; all of the roles carried out are meaningful and supportive to patients, families, visitors and staff alike. Volunteers can help in patient environments such as; the in-patient unit, day services, occupational and complementary therapy or non-patient environments such as; shops, reception, fundraising, events, community friends groups or ambassadors. All volunteers are offered a general induction to the Hospice setting and further specific training for the area where you will be based. On-going training sessions and support is provided as you learn your role.
Will I need to be disclosure checked? Expand If you are providing a service to patients, you will have to be Disclosure checked through Central Registered Body Scotland (CRBS) and complete a PVG Form. This is a way of checking that you don't have any criminal convictions that should stop you from offering help or support to the people who use our services. There is no cost associated with this as it is a volunteering role and we will help you complete all the necessary paperwork
How many hours a week will I have to offer? Expand This will depend on the role you apply for. The time commitment required for each role will be outlined on the role description. Even if you work full-time, are at school, college or University and have a busy lifestyle we will have a role that suits your availability.
How long do I need to commit for? Expand Ideally we ask for a commitment of one year. If your circumstances change in any way we would always seek to support this. However as a volunteer you are free to leave whenever you like if things don't work out we would just ask for as much notice as possible.
Will it cost me to volunteer? Expand No, we will pay out of pocket expenses associated with your role. Travel expenses will be reimbursed at the public transport rate
If I volunteer will it affect my benefits? Expand Volunteering should not affect your benefits, as long you inform your advisor and comply with the guidelines around claim. Sometimes your advisor may request a letter of confirmation regarding your volunteering hours and expenses, which we can issue if required. For further information please speak to your advisor or visit www.gov.uk/volunteering
How do I apply? Expand Would you like to join us? Please have a look at our opportunities in our volunteer vacancies