As a secondary service volunteer, you'll support people living with secondary breast cancer at a monthly in-person group.
You don't need to have had a diagnosis to be a secondary service volunteer.
What will I be doing as a secondary service volunteer?
As a secondary service volunteer, you'll support a trained counsellor during a monthly group meeting for people living with secondary breast cancer.
Our monthly Living with Secondary Breast Cancer groups, facilitated by a counsellor, are a chance for people living with secondary breast cancer to meet others with a similar diagnosis in their local area. Service users can support each other, share experiences, and learn more about secondary breast cancer and its management.
You'll welcome participants on arrival, and offer emotional support if they become upset or need to take a break. You'll help set up and clear away at the beginning and end of the meeting.
What is Living with Secondary Breast Cancer?
Our monthly groups, facilitated by a trained counsellor, are a chance for people living with secondary breast cancer to meet others with a similar diagnosis in their local area. Service users can support each other, share experiences, and learn more about secondary breast cancer and its management.
What commitment is required?
The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month between 11.15am – 1.15pm in Fishponds, Bristol. You’d need to arrive 15 minutes before the start of the meeting. We’d like a volunteer to attend each month where possible, ideally able to support the group for at least 1-2 years.
What skills and qualities do I need?
• To be a confident and skilled communicator, a good active listener with a non-judgemental and non-directive attitude and approach.
• Understanding and empathy for the issues faced by people living with a diagnosis that can be treated, but can’t currently be cured.
• Experience supporting people, whether in a professional or personal capacity.
• Ability to give support appropriately and seek support for yourself when needed.
• To be comfortable with topics discussed in the group, such as death and dying.
• A commitment to working within Breast Cancer Now’s policies and guidelines including respect for client confidentiality and equal opportunities.
What will I gain from being a secondary services volunteer?
• Experience in group facilitation.
• Developing your communication, empathy, and support skills.
• Knowing you’re helping make a real difference to the lives of people living with secondary breast cancer.
What training and support will I receive?
• Volunteers new to Breast Cancer Now will attend a 2-hour online Welcome Workshop, plus receive support and guidance documents, and all volunteers will attend an online role-specific training session.
• A debrief with the group therapist at the end of each session, giving you an opportunity to reflect and discuss any concerns you might have.
• A named contact within Breast Cancer Now.
• Refund of reasonable travel expenses in accordance with our expenses policy.