Volunteer Role: Siblings Group/ Family Support Volunteer      

Volunteer Supervisor: Sibling Coordinator/ Activity Coordinators

Location: Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and trips in the community

Days/Times: Variable – we’re looking for volunteers who are available on Saturdays for the monthly siblings groups and also some afternoons during the week on an ad-hoc basis to support us at the sibling's workshops and the events that we put on for families here at the hospice.

We’re looking for special individuals to work alongside our staff team supporting the children, young people and families who access our care in the Hospice and the community. This role involves volunteering at our monthly siblings groups & workshops, accompanying siblings on day trips and supporting children with complex needs and their families at our family activity days. If you have the right experience and skills for this unique role then we’d love to hear from you.

You might find this role suits you if:

• You have experience of working with children and knowledge of their needs.
• You want to meet new people or gain experience for your CV.
• You enjoy taking part in games and supporting children and young adults in play and activities.
• You want to be directly involved in supporting the children, young people and families who access our care.

"My favourite part of volunteering is coming to the hospice. It’s such a positive environment and everyone is so friendly and appreciative of any support that is given.” – Phil, HR Admin Volunteer

Key tasks:

We require you to assist with:

• Setting up / tidying up the room before / after the group.
• Meeting and greeting siblings to the group, ensuring they are signed in and we have the correct details.
• Taking part in the activities so that the siblings are encouraged to participate.
• Planning and delivering an activity for a sibling whilst they are staying at Bluebell Wood.
• Talking to siblings of all ages and offering them an opportunity to talk about their emotions or concerns.
• Providing support and activities for siblings whilst they are staying at Bluebell Wood.
• Supporting effective communication with children, young people and their families. 
• Supporting children with complex needs and their families to take part in activities on our family days

We don’t require you to assist with:

•        Counselling for the children.

•        Support for recently bereaved sibling (unless agreed). 

What we are looking for:

Ideally you will:

• Have previous experience of working with children
• Have a good knowledge of child development and their needs
• Be reliable and responsible
• Have good communication skills
• Be enthusiastic
• Understand the importance of play and family interaction
• Be a good listener
• Be non-judgemental
• Have experience and be confident with young people with complex needs

 As a Sibling Volunteer, you will need to be available on a regular basis. This is so you are able to build a relationship with the siblings and their families and are able to offer the most appropriate support for the sibling. 

We also ask for a commitment of at least one year and to attend at least one siblings group or activity every two months.

What we offer in return

• The opportunity to develop new and existing skills.
• The chance to be in a voluntary role helping to provide a special environment for the families that access our care.
• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of an enthusiastic team.
• Induction training to help you learn more about Bluebell Wood.
• Training provided in order to carry out your role, including online training.
• We’ll cover your travel expenses (in line with our policy).
• We’ll provide you with free refreshments and a free meal if you volunteer across lunchtime.

General

Bluebell Wood volunteers are asked to:

• Be a minimum of 16 years of age.
• Attend induction and any routine training.
• To complete e-learning training around areas relevant to your role.
• Abide by Bluebell Wood policies and guidance, including our Health & Safety policy.
• Co-operate and liaise with colleagues.
• Act in a professional manner at all times.
• Be polite and respectful to everyone you meet whilst volunteering in this role.
• Act as an Ambassador for the Bluebell Wood Charity.

 Additional Information

•           Bluebell Wood is committed to safe volunteer recruitment practices. An enhanced level Disclosure Barring Services (DBS) check is required for this role. These are free for volunteers.
•       Please be aware that if you do not have your own transport, or live locally, the hospice is very difficult to get to by public transport. If in doubt, please check public transport routes to see if it is feasible for you to volunteer here. We are over one mile from the nearest bus stop.

“The hospice is a bright, vibrant, friendly and happy place. I get to meet new, interesting people of all ages. It makes me feel like I’m doing something useful and purposeful. It’s nice to use the skills that I have but also to learn new skills.” – Lynne, Youth Group & Family Support Volunteer

 

Click here to apply