Volunteer Opportunities
The Moorside Unit provides inpatient mental health services for adults and older people. We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic volunteers to join our existing team to provide a range of diversional activities to support our patients’ recovery and to improve their experience of being a patient with us.
Feedback from our inpatient surveys tells us that whilst our patients rate the quality of care highly, they do report that they experience boredom. The Computer Skills Volunteer role has been developed to help alleviate this boredom and to demonstrate to our patients that we are listening to them and really do care. It complements the work of our Support Time Recovery Workers and Occupational Therapists and aims to improve our patient’s treatment outcomes.
The role involves facilitating introductory computer skills sessions to beginners. The sessions will cover basic skills such as switching a computer on and off, using a mouse, using basic programs such as Microsoft Word, sending and receiving emails and using the internet safely and confidentially.
This grid shows when you can volunteer for this opportunity.
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In order to fulfil the duties of this role we ask that you:
• Are aged 18 and over
• Have an understanding of mental health and the recovery process through your own lived experience, studies or work
• Are IT literate and confident in using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, the Internet and email
• Have some experience of training adults in computer skills, or the ability to teach in a patient and calm manner
• Can commit to at least two hours per week, weekly or fortnightly Monday to Friday during the day; complete a local induction and undertake all mandatory training within four weeks of starting the role
• Are able to work independently and as part of a team and to support your co-volunteer(s)
• Are able to listen and communicate effectively and sensitively encourage patient participation
• Have a basic understanding of safeguarding vulnerable adults and children
• Have a basic understanding of confidentiality and information sharing legislation
• Have a basic understanding of professional boundaries
• Have respect and compassion for others and their right to choose and to be treated with dignity