Role description:

In partnership with Ageing Better in Birmingham, we are looking at improving opportunities for carers and ex-carers (over 50 years old) to come together and develop safe, interactive groups to help reduce isolation and to improve the quality of life of the carer.

The purpose of the space is to enable carers to recognise that they can have ‘a life alongside caring’ The peer-support groups are a platform for people to receive social and practical support, a listening ear and to build relationships with people who understand their experience. Older carers are most at risk from social isolation, anxiety and stress arising from their ongoing care responsibilities.

For this reason, we are looking for people who have an empathetic nature and are interested in, or experienced in caring for a loved one, friend.

Being a good listener is essential, as is the emotional resilience to help people deal with challenging and emotional situations. We need someone who is confident enough to talk to others in both one-to-one and group settings.

 

Main duties:

  • Develop a program of activity for the space.
  • Identify carers, ex carers or hidden carers and encourage them to get involved in the space.
  • Recording carer activity such as attendance and obtaining feedback on the quality of service provided.
  • Be able to support other volunteers in the space.
  • To be the link between local groups, services and the community.
  • Help to promote the space in the community and encourage new members as/when opportunities may occur.
  • To be an active member of the co-design platform and focus group sessions.
  • To help develop toolkit/guidance to support the ongoing sustainability of each space.
  • To undertake training as required.

 

What we are looking for:

  • Understanding of the issues facing individuals in Caring role.
  • Reliability
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, especially listening skills.
  • A good understanding on how groups are managed.
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills.
  • A commitment to attend training and supervision.
  • Awareness and understanding of the need to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.

 

Location: Various

Hours: TBC

 

Contact Chantell on 07535 737 527 or email: Chantell.marler@forwardcarers.org.uk to register your interest.