D&A Carer Groups
Carers often have challenging experiences with people’s attitudes towards their caring role and can feel that they cannot talk to family members, friends, or other organisations. The D&A groups offer carers a safe space to talk through their concerns and really be heard. Carers can talk in confidence about any issues and know they will not be judged, having an understanding from others in the groups, and feel like they are not alone.
The role of the volunteer:
The D&A carer group volunteer will support the group alongside another volunteer or a CSWS staff member, creating a non-judgemental safe environment, for carers to talk about their caring roles and not feel stigmatized.
The D&A volunteer will:
• Welcome and support new and regular attendees to the groups.
• Assist in preparing and closing the meeting space. (This may include moving chairs and tables, depending on the venue).
• Support with tea and coffee.
• listen and respond to issues and concerns raised by carers at the group, where possible, with information and signposting to local and national resources. Arrange support with a CSWS member of staff for more complex issues and concerns.
• Have pre- and post-group ‘briefings’ with the other volunteer and CSWS staff member. If you have any concerns, you will be able to discuss with the D&A specialist or a member of the community team.
• Support the D&A specialist with planning the group where needed.
• Complete volunteer records and upload receipts for any expenses.
• Attend regular check-ins with a Volunteer Mentor.
Skills
Skills and qualities you will need:
• To be a good listener, and be confident in groups of people
• Caring and empathetic, and non-judgemental.
• To be able to keep your own boundaries with people.
• To be able to take advice and direction from a member of CSWS staff
• You will get full training; however, it would be desirable if you had an understanding of addiction, mental health, and autism (mental health and autism can also be an issue identified by carers at our D&A groups).
• Basic IT skills (support is available if necessary).
Availability
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Afternoon | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Evening | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Worthing • Location: Quaker Meeting House, Mill Road, Worthing BN11 5DR • Time: Monthly on the 3rd Tuesday, 17.30 - 19.00 pm. • Commitment: 2 - 3 hours per month, minimum 6-month commitment. Chichester • Location: Chichester children & family centre, St James Road, PO19 7WX • Time: Monthly on the last Monday, 10.30 - 12.00 pm. • Commitment: 2 - 3 hours per month,
Location
Interests
- Health & Social Care
Activities
- Advice, information, Support
- Befriending/Buddying