Well-being Walks Support Volunteer
St Monica Trust
| Name: | Well-being Walks Support Volunteer |
| Organisation: | St Monica Trust |
| Location: | St Monica Trust Retirement Village, Sandford Station, Sandford, Winscombe, North Somerset, BS25 5AA |
| Type: |
Part Time
Although we are looking to run the initial walks on Thursdays, we hope to develop additional walks based on volunteer availability. Therefore we welcome any interest shown as we can look to accommodate walks on different days of the week.
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Description
Supporting our residents to enjoy walks that recognise individual abilities, our Walking Groups need enthusiastic volunteers to assist participants whilst enjoying this activity. Volunteer “Group Leaders” and “Back Markers” will ensure that all our older residents can participate fully in the specifically designed walks and as a result, experience the sense of well-being that walking with others brings to the day.
Our walks are designed to meet the capabilities of any of our residents and will range from simple walks around the lovely grounds of our retirement village at Sandford Station for those with limitations, right through to walks along The Strawberry line (or similar) which is located adjacent to the village.
If you enjoy outdoor based volunteering with a leaning towards an interest in health and well-being, particularly for our older members of the community, then this volunteering opportunity is for you.
Initially supported by a staff member, the aim is for these groups to be resident led in the future, with the support of volunteers.
Request Organisation Contact Details
Organisation Description
Providers of accommodation and support for older people to enable them to live independent, dignified and fulfilled lives.
When
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thurs | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
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| Afternoon | |||||||
| Evening |
Cause / Interests
- Elderly
- Health and Hospital and Hospices
- Mental Health
- Sport and Outdoor Activities
Types of Activity
- Administration
- Advice, Information and Support
- Befriending and Buddying
- Caring
- General and Helping
- Mentoring
Skills and Qualifications
Requirements
What we are looking for is someone who likes the outdoors and understands the benefits being outdoors with a group of like minded people can bring.
Volunteers must feel comfortable within social settings and happy to have informal chats with other group members.
Group Leaders need to be familiar with the dynamics of walking groups and be happy to take the lead when looking at new walks with the group. They should have an inclusive approach which allows all members of the group to participate to the level they choose.
“Back markers” should be happy to support the Group Leader and to be aware of individuals within their group in terms of recognising capabilities and potential issue that may arise whilst out on a walk.
A knowledge of First Aid for both roles would be an advantage although training can be arranged if needed.
Benefits
These roles bring a mix of social interactions at different levels alongside the opportunity to demonstrate either leadership and/or common-sense.
In terms of development, volunteers will be able to further their development by helping the groups progress and become attractive to some of our residents who may not previously have considered this activity in the past, or who thought their walking days were over.
Additional/Specific Suitabilities
| Minimum Age: | 18 | |
| Maximum Age: | NA | |
| Disabled Access: | Yes | |
| Wheelchair Access: | Yes | |
| Expenses: | Yes | |
| Restrictions: | Would only be suitable for someone who can commit to regular attendance throughout the year. | |
| Induction: | Yes - two levels | |
| Insurance Cover: | Yes | |
| Special Needs: | Yes, providing the individual can carry out the role. | |
| Offer: | Yes | |
| Training: | Yes | |
| Other: | Minimum Age 18 for Group Leader - 14 for 'Back Marker'. Disabled and Wheelchair Access may vary depending on the walk. All our volunteers complete a GDPR Training Module prior to commencing their training. |
Recruitment Method
Application form, Informal discussion, References, DBS Check