Ideally this role is shared between two or three people working together as a team; after some initial support, this group runs without the supervision of WSX Mind staff.
Gentle & Mindful Walking Group Facilitator - Various Locations
This role involves organising and co-facilitating a gentle walking group for people aged 65 and over. If you like getting outside, walking, and engaging with the environment, this may be the role for you.
Locations & Times
Chichester - 1st or 3rd Wednesday of the month, 11:00 - 13:00
Bognor Regis - Friday mornings (not fixed)
Shoreham - last Tuesday of the month, 11:15 - 13:30
What's Involved
- A commitment to volunteering 6 - 9 hours per month (3 hours for the monthly walk, additional hours for planning and preparation)
- Administrative duties – research & plan walking routes; learn about different mindfulness techniques; conduct risk assessments; apply WSX Mind policies and procedures; keeping a register of attendance
- Planning/executing alternative activities in the event of cold/wet weather, such as meeting in a café
- Integrating elements of mindfulness – choosing mindful practices to use during walks/meetings and applying them in a way that is accessible to service users
What We Ask For
- Ability to encourage and motivate others
- Strong communication and listening skills
- A commitment to being part of the service on a regular basis
- Enthusiasm for supporting people, enabling them to achieve personal goals
- Experience with older people and understanding of their physical and mental health needs
- Familiarity with, or an interest in, mindfulness (formal training/experience is not required)
How We Help Our Volunteers & Benefits
- During the recruitment process you will be given access to our e-learning platform, Cornerstone, and you will be assigned several mandatory courses on various topics including health and safety, mental health and safeguarding
- You will be invited to a live induction session for new volunteers where you gain a deeper understanding of the organisation, and have the opportunity to apply your e-learning to various scenarios
- You will meet new people, have the opportunity to learn new skills and take part in regular in-house training
- We will reimburse pre-agreed expenses in line with WSX Mind’s expenses policy
- We will check-in regularly to ensure you are enjoying your volunteering role through 1-2-1s, volunteer meetings, social and learning networking days
Volunteer Recruitment Process
- Applicants will be interviewed by the Service Manager(s)
- If successful, 2 references will be requested, and applicants will be required to complete mandatory e-learning provided to them
- Because the role involves working closely with vulnerable people, we will need to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check
- Support will be available for any technical, language or literary support required
For more information, please email volunteering@westsussexmind.org or cim@westsussexmind.org
Chichester
view & download role profileBognor Regis
view & download role profileShoreham
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