What will I be doing/involved in?
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Working as part of the Complementary Therapy Team, complementary therapists will offer at least two of the following therapies:
- Massage
- Reflexology
- Aromatherapy
- Indian Head Massage
Other therapies offered include:
- Reiki
- Cranio Sacral Therapy
Therapies are offered to patients in the In-Patient Unit and to Out Patients and their Carers, by appointment. Therapies are also offered to bereaved carers, by appointment.
Therapists will provide complementary therapy information and guidance to patients and carers which will support their emotional wellbeing. Therapists will keep accurate, up to date records as required by the Hospice.
What experience or skills do I need?
- Understanding of the work and values of St Columba’s Hospice.
- Willing to keep informed and stay updated about our work
- Be an ambassador of St Columba’s Hospice
- Follow Infection Control guidelines
- Recognised qualification in complementary therapy
- Professional indemnity insurance
- At least two years’ or more experience in practicing two or more of the therapies listed above.
- Registration with a professional body, e.g. Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council, Federation of Holistic Therapists, or Complementary Therapists Association
- Excellent people skills
- Understanding of the role of complementary therapy in a hospice environment
- Ability to work as part of the Complementary Therapy Team – without close supervision, but within Hospice processes
- To practise agreed therapies in accordance with the policies of St Columba’s Hospice
- A strong understanding of the need for and importance of patient and client confidentiality and boundaries, at all times
- Confidence and sensitivity when dealing with difficult information from distressed and anxious patients or relatives
- Willingness to work as part of the wider Hospice team, and with staff and volunteers as required
- Willingness to attend group supervision, and continuing professional development updates
- Experience of working with people with advanced illness is helpful, though not essential
Time commitment and duration
Generally half a day or a full day, once a week or once a fortnight Monday to Friday.
Hours are generally 10.15am-1.45pm or 1-3.15pm; a full day runs from 10.15am-3.15pm. This can be flexible.
Where will I be based?
St. Columba’s Hospice, 15 Boswall Road, Edinburgh.
Who will be supporting me?
Complementary Therapy Coordinator
Who else will support me?
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Volunteer Services Manager, Volunteer Services team, other Hospice staff as needed.
Recruitment checks
- Application Form
- Volunteers must be 18 or over
- Interview with Volunteer Services Manager and Complimentary Therapy Coordinator
- Two references
- PVG Disclosure
Training
- Hospice Volunteer Induction Programme
- Hospice Orientation
- Team / role induction and training
- Team meetings (if/as necessary)
Additional Information
- Hospice Chaplains are always available to support volunteers
- Volunteers may claim reasonable travelling expenses for transport to and from the Hospice, or the place you volunteer, e.g. one of our retail shops. Please speak to your manager about this.
- The Hospice provides complimentary tea and coffee to all volunteers, staff, patients and families as part of the hospitality strategy.
- If you volunteer for a full day at the Hospice, you can claim a free meal from the staff café or Iona Café. Please speak to your manager about this.
- To find out more about this role, please contact the Community Fundraising Team on 0131 551 1381 or by emailing fund@stcolumbashospice.org.uk.
You can apply online here
Alternatively, please email us at volunteer@stcolumbashospice.org.uk to request a paper application form, or to ask us any questions about the role
Download a role description
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