Providing friendly conversation with regular telephone calls from late Jan/early Feb to June 2023. You'll also help your companion discover lasting connections in their community
Do you live in Bristol, South Glos or North Somerset?
We're looking for friendly volunteers to chat once a week to someone experiencing loneliness in the greater Bristol area. By doing some research, you’ll give information about local activities suitable for the member you are matched with, so that they can begin to form new social links in the community and feel more connected. As part of a virtual volunteer team you can share the ideas you find with others, and vice versa, to offer mutual support.
Full training provided. The project runs for 15 - 20 weeks.
Get involved and make a huge difference to someone's world with a weekly call.
Online applications open in the Autumn but to register your interest email Helen at companions@marmaladetrust.org
07566 244 788
Who will you be matched to?
Our Marmalade members vary in age and ability, but all experience social isolation and/or loneliness. Most find that health problems or limited mobility impact their ability to go outside, and the pandemic has exacerbated this.
"I'm always so grateful when the phone rings! I never leave the house and I have no family, so life is the same day in and day out. Our cheerful conversations brighten my day and give me something to look forward to." - Beryl, 75
What will the role involve?
We're looking for people who have excellent listening skills and enjoy a good phone call. You'll need to be able to show your companion respect, patience, empathy and understanding. It's essential that you:
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Are over 18
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Have an up-to-date DBS certificate or willing to complete a DBS check
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Provide two suitable references
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Can commit to making a 30-minute call at an agreed time each week over a 20-week period
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Attend two online training sessions (covering safeguarding, confidentiality and social prescribing).
You'll also need to be:
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Friendly and respectful – you may be the only person the member is in contact with so a kind and understanding approach would be welcome.
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A good listener - members may share personal details about their lives. An empathetic approach, and the ability to help people identify their own needs by listening to what they are telling you is really important.
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Reliable – it is important to build a relationship on trust by contacting the member at an agreed time.
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A good communicator – you may have to have some difficult conversations with members.
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Based in the Southwest of England - this is desirable not essential.