Alzheimer Scotland is Scotland’s national dementia charity.
Do you have an interest in supporting people living with dementia?
We are looking for Community Group Volunteers to support our groups in Dundee.
Our aim is to make sure nobody faces dementia alone. We provide support and information to people with dementia, their carers and families, we campaign for the rights of people with dementia and fund vital dementia research.
Could you be part of our team?
The purpose of this role is to support a range of community groups run by Alzheimer Scotland in and around Dundee. Our Community Groups are there to be enjoyed by anyone living with dementia or experiencing difficulties with their memory, as well as their families and friends.
We currently run community groups on the following themes in Dundee:* Football Memories (DFC and DUFC)* Dementia cafes* History/ reminiscence * Active living – walking group, Move It or Lose It* Music and dance
We are hoping to expand our offer over the next few months to include arts and crafts, and restart a gardening group at our beautiful allotment on Law Hill. We are also always open to ideas from both volunteers and the people we work with! If you are aged 18 and over and have time to offer, Alzheimer Scotland wants to hear from you!
What the role involves
As a volunteer, you can choose to volunteer with one or more of our regular groups, based on your interest and availability. The role is incredibly varied and is likely to involve:* Ensuring venue is set up before a group starts, and helping to clear up after the group* Delivering activities * Making tea and coffee for attendees* Supporting attendees to feel comfortable and looked after within the group setting* Supporting attendees to engage with activities in a way that ensures that they feel safe and comfortable
Dementia doesn’t discriminate, neither does Alzheimer Scotland
Regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, faith or belief, race or ethnicity people are at the heart of what we do. We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, including an introduction into all the areas outlined. You will have the chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.
What you need for this role
You don’t need any formal training for this role, as we will provide a full induction for our volunteers, including dementia awareness training, and offer on-going support to make sure you feel confident and supported throughout your volunteering journey. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds with the following qualities: * Great communication and interpersonal skills* Energy and enthusiasm* Ability to recognise and respect the diversity of our communities* Willingness to develop your skills and experience* Commitment to Alzheimer Scotland’s values* Willingness to follow our policies, procedures and guidance
Our Commitment
Whether your volunteering journey with us is long or short, this is our commitment to you as a volunteer. We will always:* Welcome you as an individual.* Offer you a role that fits with you and your life.* Help you learn your role and support you to learn as you go.* Value your personal contribution.* Listen to your feedback and welcome your ideas.* Keep you safe.* Keep you connected and up to date.* Reimburse your out-of-pocket expenses.* Thank you for the impact you deliver.
Your Commitment:
In return, we ask that you: * Contribute positively to Alzheimer Scotland’s vision for change.* Value the diverse contribution of others.* Respect the boundaries of your role and our Code of Conduct.* Complete the necessary learning pathway for your role.* Share your success and learning.* Express your ideas and give us honest feedback.* Recognise and be open about the limits of your experience and expertise.* Behave in a way that prioritises your safety and the safety of those you are working with (within the scope of your volunteering role).* Stay connected and up to date about our work.
Are any checks made before I start?
As this role involves working with vulnerable adults, you will be required to join the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. We will assist you with this application and there is no cost involved.
We will ask you to fill out a short application form including the name and contact details of two referees.
The successful candidate for this post will be subject to a basic criminal check through Disclosure Scotland.
Will volunteering cost me anything?
No. We will pay out of pocket expenses.
What sort of training is offered?
Induction training is given to increase your understanding of dementia and give you an awareness of the values and principles of Alzheimer Scotland. We aim to ensure that you feel confident in your volunteering role.
What support will I receive?
You will receive ongoing support from your Community Activities Organiser, Shabana. There will be opportunities for meeting up with other volunteers and sharing experiences.