Compassionate Neighbours Volunteer

What will I be doing/involved in?

Compassionate Neighbours offer emotional and social support to local people who may be lonely or socially isolated and have a life limiting condition. We aim to build supportive and enriching connections and genuine friendships within local communities by ‘matching’ people together based on common interests, lifestyles and experiences. Meeting once a week, F2F, by phone, online or by letter, we aim to develop caring and reciprocal relationships which add to a sense of belonging

What do I need to have?

We are looking for great people who understand the importance of community, have a real desire to help others, are willing to commit to ongoing training and be part of a growing social movement to alleviate loneliness. If you are a good listener, reliable, trustworthy and compassionate we'd love to hear from you

Time commitment and duration

One session per week / fortnight of 1.5 hours

Flexible re time and day.

Where will I be based?

In the community in Edinburgh / East Lothian. Occasional meetups will be held in St Columba’s Hospice and other community settings

Who will be supporting me?

Compassionate Neighbours Lead, Compassionate Community Lead

Who else will support me?

Compassionate Neighbours Team and key staff across St Columba’s Hospice

Recruitment checks

· Interview with Compassionate Neighbours Lead and team member

· Application Form

· Two references

· PVG check

· Successful completion of training

· Volunteers must be 16 years or over

Learning & Development

· 8 hours blended training, delivered online and face to face

· Monthly online Compassionate Neighbours meetup

· Day to day support of Compassionate Neighbours team

· Regular update sessions on key topics

· Compassionate Neighbours Buddy support

· One to one review sessions

· Compassionate Neighbours social meetups

· Compassionate Neighbours handbook & induction

Additional Information

· The Compassionate Neighbour team, Hospice Chaplains and key team leads from St Columba’s Hospice are always available to support volunteers

· Compassionate Neighbours may claim reasonable travelling expenses for transport to and from their community setting with prior approval.

· St Columba’s Hospice provides complimentary tea and coffee to all Compassionate Neighbours, volunteers, staff, patients and families as part of the hospitality strategy.

To find out more about Compassionate Neighbours email myoung@stcolumbashospice.org.uk or call Maggie on 07785 615 028

Alternatively, please email us at volunteer@stcolumbashospice.org.uk to request a paper application form. 

Download a role description