Noah's Ark Children's Hospice - Family Activities Volunteer

Details of the Charity:Share this

We help babies, children and young people with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions, and their families, make the most of every day. And we support those who die young to do so in as much comfort as possible, surrounded by family. We are here to enable those we support to enjoy life as children, rather than as patients; as families, not just as carers.

We are one of the UK’s leading children’s hospices, providing care for over 350 children and their families every year. We believe that every baby, child, and young person who is seriously unwell, and their loved ones, should have access to expert and compassionate palliative care from the moment of diagnosis.

Details of the Volunteering Opportunity:

Family Activities Volunteers help to run fun, free days out and events that allow families and children to meet others in similar situations and take part in new activities in accessible environments. There are events for whole families, for parents, for Noah’s Ark (referred) children, and for siblings.

Main Activities/Tasks:

Family Days: Setting up the room, greeting and directing families, running activities, assisting with refreshments
Parent Groups: Assisting with the crèche, playing and reading with babies and toddlers
Siblings’ Groups: For siblings of Noah’s Ark children, there are 3 groups: ages 5-9, ages 10-13, and 14+. Role includes escorting siblings in public transport and taxis, supporting and befriending, assisting and encouraging siblings in activities
Noah’s Ark Children’s Groups: working 1:1 with a child, with Specialist Nurses and Carers, to support them in engaging with activities

Location:

Training will take place at The Ark, Byng Road, Barnet, EN5 4NP.

Events take place in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey, Islington, Hertsmere, or Central London

Time Commitment:

Volunteers should commit for 12 months, at least one event per quarter, usually for 6-7 hours

Skills Required:

Experience of working with children, young people, or families desirable but not essential
Ability to work well with others
Empathy and understanding of the role, and of the work of Noah’s Ark
Good level of self-awareness
Initiative and problem-solving skills
Good communication skills

Additional Benefits:

Substantial training provided including Safeguarding Training, a Core Module including learning more about children’s hospice care, and a Family Activities Specific Module.
Volunteer social events such as quizzes, coffee mornings, invitations to Bubbly & Brunch events.
Volunteer hours to go towards the Brunel Volunteers Award