Care and Support Service Volunteers

The British Red Cross ‘Care & Support Service’ is proven to assist with the hospital discharge procedures and intermediate care agendas. Trained volunteers are there to provide a professional service that benefits both clients and carers. We are looking for young people aged between 18 and 25 who would be interested in this role. The service is intended for people who need short-term support and help following hospital discharge, or for those who do not necessarily need to be admitted into hospital. It is available to anyone who requires low-level care and support, and can be provided (depending on circumstances) for up to 6 – 8 weeks. It is free of charge to the user. Our trained volunteers provide practical help and support, through home visits and over the telephone. The kind of assistance we provide is tailored to the needs of the person and is assessed on an individual basis.

Typical tasks could include: > Taking home from hospital > Providing pop-visits and keeping in regular contact, either in person or on the telephone > Assisting with shopping (either taking the user or doing it for them) > Collecting prescriptions > Escorting to and supporting at pre-existing medical appointments > Assisting in preparing a simple meal or snack > Supporting carers > Carrying out a basic home safety check in order to prevent a fall or accident > Promote independence and confidence building > Signposting to other services when necessary