Location: Ward 4, West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven, CA28 8JG
Job Type: Voluntary, Flexible Working
About the Role
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has partnered with Inspira to deliver the Volunteer to Career (VtC) programme. This initiative encourages volunteers to pursue a healthcare career, addressing staffing shortages in the NHS. The programme is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is open to those residing in the Cumberland Council boundary.
As a Ward Support Volunteer, you will provide companionship and support to patients, including those who have been in the hospital for extended periods. You will engage patients in activities such as reading, board games, and conversation. The role also involves assisting patients with dementia by creating and engaging them in memory-based activities, using themes like school days, holidays, hobbies, and entertainment.
Volunteers are required to commit at least 60 hours over a minimum of 7 months and must be over 18 years old, with the right to work in the UK. Upon completing the programme, volunteers will have the opportunity to join the Bank register as a Casual Healthcare Assistant and complete their Care Certificate.
Main Duties of the Job
- Facilitate meaningful activities, such as card games, reading, and general conversation
- Support patients with dementia in engaging memory-based activities
- Create memory boxes on themes like school, work, and hobbies
- Provide companionship and support in a one-to-one or small group setting
- Help patients participate in activities like dominoes, jigsaws, and listening to music
Eligibility for the VtC Programme
- Open to individuals interested in pursuing a career in Health and Social Care
- Commitment of at least 60 hours over 7 months
- Must be over 18 years old with the right to work in the UK
- Must reside within the Cumberland Council boundary
- Ready to undergo recruitment checks and training
Benefits
- Opportunity to progress into a career as a Casual Healthcare Assistant
- Completion of the Care Certificate
- Gain valuable experience in the healthcare sector
- Access to professional careers advice and guidance from Inspira
- Flexible working hours
About North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services across North Cumbria. They strive to create a center of excellence for rural and remote healthcare, working with local councils and the voluntary sector to deliver outstanding care. Their vision is supported by five key principles: clinical leadership, quality care, a positive patient experience, being a great place to work, and financial responsibility.
The Trust also aims to be the greenest region in England by 2030, with all staff encouraged to support sustainability efforts such as waste management, paperless initiatives, and sustainable transport.
Job locations
West Cumberland Hospital
Homewood Road
Whitehaven
CA28 8JG
Locate West Cumberland Hospital on Google map 📍
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This role is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The cost will be deducted from the employee’s salary.
Certificate of Sponsorship
While this position is voluntary, applications from individuals requiring Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. Please ensure eligibility criteria are met before applying.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please submit your application online before the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email to schedule an interview.
Reference Number: 262-A-24-6686623
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