Group Volunteer
Group volunteers assist in the running of our groups, chatting with members, helping out with activities such as arts & crafts, music and social exercises. There is a different theme every week - and even a few trips out!
If you thrive in a group setting, then this could be for you.
Group Volunteer
We’re looking for warm, friendly, enthusiastic people to join our volunteering community. You don’t need any prior experience of working with people living with dementia – we’ll give you all the training you need! All we ask is that you are kind, compassionate, sensible and patient, and want to make a real difference to the lives of people living with dementia in Manchester.
Volunteer Role | Group Volunteer |
Service: | Friendship & Activity Groups |
Time: | Varies (week days) |
Location: | |
Commitment: | 3 hours per week (1 group session) |
Supported by: | Volunteer Co-ordinator & Dementia Support Co-ordinator |
Training: | 2-hour induction training (compulsory) Additional training offered as appropriate No prior experience needed. |
Travel expenses reimbursed
About us
Together Dementia Support are here to help people to live positively with Dementia in Manchester and Trafford. There are an estimated 5,000 people in Manchester currently living with dementia. We support people to live actively, socially and positively, with support for both people living with dementia and their loved ones.
Since being established in 2014, TDS has supported over 1,000 people living with Dementia and their loved ones. We currently have over 280 members and 300 carers who we support week in, week out, 52 weeks a year. Our dedicated team of Dementia Support Co-ordinators and volunteers are the lifeblood of our service, working to improve physical and mental health and enable people to live positively with dementia.
For people living with dementia, we offer a range of activities such as social groups, walking groups, arts & crafts, music and games groups, as well as one-to-one at home social activity support. For carers, we provide online and in person group support, one-to-one advice and guidance, training opportunities and a friendly ear to listen.
About the role
Group Volunteers help out at our weekly Friendship & Activity Groups. These are a great place for people living with Dementia to meet new people in a fun, relaxed and social setting. Group Volunteers support our group members as they take part in gentle exercise, social games, musical activities and cognitive exercises to stay positive and healthy.
Responsibilities of a Group Volunteer include:
Arriving 30 minutes before a group to help with set up – moving chairs and tables, preparing materials, checking registers, welcoming members
Assisting/guiding members on and off the minibus, and in and out of the building
Preparing drinks, snacks and refreshments for members – hot drinks, biscuits and fruit, sandwiches
Engaging with members – actively start conversations and get to know members. If you are struggling, ask your Lead Volunteer or Dementia Support Co-ordinator (DSC) for conversation starters or tips.
Engaging members with group activities – be patient and reassuring. Some members might struggle with, or dislike, activities. Work with them to find an activity that they enjoy.
Escorting members around the building e.g. to and from the toilets – this prevents members getting lost or confused. Note: volunteers do no provide personal care, such as feeding, helping with toileting, or administering medication.
Being aware and alert of your surroundings – always be mindful of possible safety hazards
Staying for 30 minutes after a group to assist with set down and tidying up
Other
Remaining in good contact with the DSC and Volunteer Co-ordinator – notifying us at least 2 days prior to the group if you’re unable to attend.
If there is opportunity to do so, volunteers are welcome to plan and lead group activities or sessions. This is not compulsory, but we love it when our volunteers share their skills and interests.
