First Connect Volunteer

Age NI's First Connect service offers dedicated emotional and practical support at difficult times in an individual’s life; situations which are often triggered by feeling the loss of independence or sudden unexpected changes in important relationships.

Times like these can impact on a person’s sense of control, self confidence or self esteem and quality of life. Through First Connect we are there to support older people and help them make sense of what is happening in their lives and to support them to make choices and access new opportunities and services that they consider best enhances and sustains their wellbeing and independence. We believe this approach will support older people to remain independent in their own homes and communities.

Connecting
Naomi Spratt, First Connect Coordinator for Age NI, says:

'We provide emotional and practical support to older people at a really difficult time in their lives.

'When we receive a referral we visit the person in their own home, and we’ll undertake a holistic assessment to decide how best we can support them.

'We tailor our support for each individual’s needs. The person might be isolated, or might need help with washing and dressing. We make sure they have the full benefit and pension they’re entitled to We’ll also look at any support they might need with transport, safety and security.

'Often this is the first time the older person has ever needed to ask for support. It’s a very humbling thing for them to let a First Connect coordinator go into their home.

'We try to keep people out of the care system, at home, for as long as we can. We get around 50 new referrals every month.

'This job is so rewarding. The feedback we receive is lovely: from clients, families and even other professionals. I absolutely love my job, and all the coordinators are passionate about it too.'

PURPOSE OF THE VOLUNTEER ROLE
Volunteers will provide support to older people to help them access new opportunities and services that they consider best enhances and sustains their wellbeing and independence.

No previous knowledge or experience is required to access this role as tailored training is provided

OUTLINE OF ACTIVITIES
 Reducing - isolation and loneliness

 Exploring/supporting – signposting to community supports

 Building Confidence

 *The role is very flexible and can be tailored to suit you*

PERSONAL QUALITIES
Can build trusting and supportive relationships with older people.

Can communicate well and be a good listener.

Has common sense, is independent but also knows when to seek support.

Can be sensitive with others and show empathy.

Good organisational skills

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT
We will:

 Provide a thorough induction, on-going training and support

 Hold regular one-to-one support / feedback sessions with you

 Cover out of pocket expenses

BENEFITS TO YOU
You will:

 Learn new skills

 Feel good about making a positive life changing difference

 Gain knowledge on available services and activities and how to access them locally

 Increase your employability

LOCATION

• Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (covering local council areas of Belfast and Castlereagh)

• South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (covering local council areas of Newtownards, Down, North Down and Lisburn)

• Northern Health and Social Care Trust (covering local council areas of Coleraine, Moyle, Larne, Antrim, Carrickfergus, Newtownabbey, Ballymoney, Ballymena, Magherafelt and Cookstown)

• Southern Health and Social Care Trust (covering local council areas of Dungannon, Armagh, Craigavon, Banbridge and Newry and Mourne)

ADDITIONAL INFO
This role will require an enhanced Access NI disclosure certificate (free)