Volunteer role description
- Responsible to: Complementary Therapies Lead.
- Base: Skanda Vale Hospice.
- Hours of Service: Day Hospice Sessions – currently Wednesdays. Other days will be available as our services expand. The commitment we are asking of our Therapists is a minimum of 10 hours per month. In addition, all our volunteers take part in Induction and training, much of which happens in the first few weeks. We expect our Complementary Therapists may engage in up to 18 hours per month of initial mandatory training in their first 3 months, then up to 6 hours monthly of additional support and opportunities for personal/professional development.
Overview
Providing Complementary Therapies in a hospice setting is a deeply meaningful way to volunteer and one that is truly cherished by our patients and those close to them. A soothing, non-medical touch is, for many patients, something that has become rare; and for those close to them, a therapy session in the hospice is a very precious time to unwind, knowing their loved one is in good hands.
Our therapists are treasured members of the Care Delivery Team, greatly enhancing the quality of people’s time with us. Their treatments are given in beautiful dedicated spaces that support relaxation and make our guests feel cared for and special. They work alongside the Nursing Team to ensure therapies are safe and effective for recipients and that treatment plans are reviewed as people’s needs change. When possible, they also provide treatments to support our team’s well-being – a tangible, feel-good ‘thankyou’ for their dedicated time and commitment.
Our complementary therapists are responsible for:
- Assessing those they are treating and talking them (or those close to them) through an appropriate course of treatment based on their needs and diagnosis.
- Establishing a safe and trusting atmosphere for individuals and ensuring therapies are delivered in the most compassionate and professional way possible.
- Managing confidential data and recording and updating electronic notes after every patient / client contact.
- Maintaining current knowledge of best evidence-based practice in Complementary Therapies and standards of professional practice.
- Understanding relevant developments in complementary therapy and palliative care (and the implications for these in practice).
- Monitoring and managing treatments appropriately and reporting any and all concerns swiftly to the appropriate Lead.
We would love it if you had:
- Experience in working with people with a palliative diagnosis.
- A good understanding of Health and Care Standards.
- Membership of a recognised Complementary Therapy Regulatory Body.
- The ability to speak Welsh.
Personal qualities we value are:
- A compassionate and empathic attitude.
- Enthusiasm and a conscientious approach to volunteering.
- Approachability, person-centred manner and a sense of humour.
- A positive “can-do” attitude.
We ask all our volunteers to:
- Attend a Welcome (Back) Day, Induction and ongoing training as per hospice requirements.
- Participate in our annual development and review process.
- Follow our organisational policies and procedures.
- Play an active part in the hospice risk management process to safeguard patients, visitors and colleagues and take responsibility for reporting and managing risks as appropriate.
- Follow good infection control practice at all times and be familiar with infection control policies, procedures and guidance relevant to their area of work.
- Agree to a criminal records check prior to starting with us
- Be aware of the confidential nature of the organisation, including information about patients, carers, friends and relatives which must not be disclosed to any unauthorised persons including via social media.
Apply now
Before you start, make sure you have the names, numbers and email addresses of two referees (non-family members) who you’ve known for two or more years.