Companion Call Volunteering with Alzheimers

People affected by dementia are at higher risk of experiencing loneliness. As a Companion Call Volunteer, you will help to reduce isolation by telephoning people affected by dementia on a regular basis (ideally weekly) to engage people in friendly conversation and to have a good chat. Through your contact and conversations, people affected by dementia will feel less socially isolated and better connected

What you’ll be doing:

• Telephoning people living with dementia or their carers, usually on a weekly basis, chatting with them about the things they are interested in and want to talk about.
• Speaking / chatting with the same people each time (ideally at least two).
  Providing brief feedback on calls via an online form and to your role manager as required.
• You will not be providing advice or guidance in this role and you don’t need to have knowledge of dementia.

What you can expect from Alzheimers Society

• They will make you feel welcome, included and respected.
• You will receive training, ongoing supervision and support.
• You can claim pre-agreed out of pocket expenses (e.g. travel) in line with their policy.
• They’ll keep you up to date with relevant policies and procedures that apply to your role.
• You’ll have access to learning, development and engagement opportunities for volunteers

To ensure the safety and security of people with dementia they ask for:

• Two references and proof of identity
• To put the role into practice most effectively and to ensure a consistent service for people living with dementia this role is recommended to continue for at least 6 months.
• Learning to enable you to be effective in the role will take about 2-3 hours.
• You will need your own computer, internet access, email address and phone.

For more information and to apply, contact the Companion Calls Team on 01159 596176 or email companioncalls@alzheimers.org.uk