Independent Living Service Volunteer (Charing Cross Next Steps Home From Hospital Service)

For people leaving hospital, adjusting to life at home can be a difficult time. Helping someone get their essential shopping, pick up their prescription or get the heating turned on can make all the difference for them to feel safe at home. The service provides support Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm. **We are looking for volunteers who live within 30 minutes travel time of Charing Cross Hospital, W6 8RF.** We would like you to volunteer: - On a regular basis, weekly 3-4 hours per week minimum - For at least 12 months - An additional language would be beneficial but is not essential **Health and Safety Statement** We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment and will also have a conversation with you to discuss and identify any adjustments you may need. If you have any questions before applying, please contact us at [volunteerrecruitment@redcross.org.uk](url)
Why we want you: If you are compassionate and like helping and meeting people, then this could be the role for you. Volunteers like you support people who are leaving hospital, helping to build their confidence so that they can continue to live independently in their own home.

• Tasks: Visit people in hospital as they are getting ready to go home.
  
  Bring people home from hospital.
  
  Help someone settle in when they first arrive home.
  
  Support with shopping and collecting prescriptions.
  
  Help people find further support if they need it.
  
  Keep records of tasks.

• Skills: Warm and friendly with empathy for others.
  
  Good communication skills.
  
  Encouraging and supportive.
  
  Enjoy meeting and spending time with new people.
  
  Can work independently and as a part of a team.
  
  Able to commit to a regular shift.

• Benefits: Meet new people and be part of a dynamic and inclusive team.
  
  A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones.
  
  All training and induction for the role (there is no charge for training).
  
  Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses for the role including for attending training.
  
  An opportunity to be part of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation and the knowledge that you are making a difference to people’s lives.