Macmillan Information and Support Volunteer
Why we want you?
Volunteers will be assisting with the day to day running of the Macmillan information and support center, support on the oncology unit and making a big difference to support patients diagnosed with cancer.
Location – South Tyneside Hospital
Time: We ask for a minimum of one day a week to support the center and to ensure you are supported as a volunteer. The Macmillan information and support center is open 10am to 4pm, but there is flexibility to meet individual needs of volunteers.
What you will be doing
Volunteers will assist and support staff in welcoming patients, relatives, carers and health professionals to the Macmillan Centre, or to the Chemotherapy Unit depending where based. They will be able to spend time with patients, relatives, carers, who need emotional and practical support. Providing refreshments to patients and carers whilst receiving treatment on the chemotherapy unit and helping with outreach activities, where appropriate.
The skills you need
There are no specific qualifications required for this post however, the volunteer will need to possess good communication and listening skills along with skills of empathy, patience and understanding. Training will be given to support this role.
What’s in it for you
Mandatory annual NHS training includes – Infection prevention and control, Data protection, health and safety and fire safety.
The Macmillan Information and Support center also offers tailored training to all volunteers, including; Cancer awareness, listening and communication skills, Confidentiality, patient pathways, palliative a bereavement awareness. Additional training can be given when required.
Additionally volunteers will have regular supervision sessions and team meetings to identify needs and better ways of working.
Next steps
An application form can be downloaded online via https://www.stsft.nhs.uk/join-our-team/volunteer-us, email stsft.volunteer@nhs.net or call 0191 569 9172. We can send an application to you if you do not use the internet. Please call the South Tyneside Macmillan center on 0191 202 4167.
Other information
• Volunteer expenses: Free Parking at the Hospital, DBS check and a food voucher during the day if required.
• Checks: DBS check and if appropriate a meeting with our occupational Health team.
• Any other information relevant to the role: Full training and support will be given to each and every volunteer.