Support When It Matters ('SWIM') helps people in hard-to-reach groups to access what they need to live healthy, purposeful lives.
Working with Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), we urgently need volunteers to carry out ‘check-in and chat’ telephone calls on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis.
People who are currently serving their sentences in the community, either as a community sentence order or on a period of license, are not receiving the same level of support that is usually available to them due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Those that receive our support will be amongst the most vulnerable in society, which could include: the elderly, individuals living alone with no family/support networks, the clinically vulnerable, people with a disability, those living in poverty or with care responsibilities.
Your role will be to provide general conversation and helpful tips on how to occupy time in a pro-social manner. You will help people to navigate through these challenging times, maintain contact with the outside world, and supporting their general wellbeing.
Induction, training and ongoing support will be provided.
Your responsibilities and duties may include:
- Committing to regular telephone calls to matched beneficiaries over a specified period
- Making good, constructive, positive conversation – keeping it light and listening intently – with an ability to steer conversations away from difficult or negative discussions
- Keeping a log of relevant discussion/action points – highlighting any concerns or queries
- Working with the Volunteer Manager to signpost/pass on information about other local support services if required
- Keeping track of activities and regularly communicating with the Volunteer Manager on progress.
Key attributes:
- A non-judgmental approach to others
- Good listening and communication skills
- Empathy and compassion
- Good Understanding of confidentiality
- Socially responsible
- Strong mindset
This role description outlines the broad range of responsibilities and requirements of the specified volunteering post. There will be regular opportunities to review and express an interest in supporting other services in your local area, further enhancing and developing your volunteering experience.
Volunteers are the cornerstone of our work with vulnerable people and we are committed to working together to create positive change in local communities.