BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Senior Steps GEMS is only one part of the service we offer, and offers on-going low level support, often called befriending, to clients referred by Senior Steps

GEMS -Standing for Giving Emotional and Motivational Support, uses specially trained volunteers to provide the service.

WHAT CAN I GET OUT OF IT?

We know that people volunteer for different reasons:

Help with job training

Personal satisfaction

To get experience in that line of work

Most of us have mixed reasons - and that's OK for us!!

We can offer information and advice regarding future careers and opportunities, accredited training and courses, as well as helping you with your C.V.

GEMS will receive an induction to Building Blocks and Senior Steps, you will receive regular one-to-one supervision from the Senior Steps Manager, as well as being able to meet up with fellow volunteers on a regular basis.

We feel that it is important that GEMS volunteers are given support, experience and the opportunity to be part of this exciting team

At least nine members of our paid Building Blocks staff team
originally joined as Volunteers.

WHAT DOES A SENIOR STEPS GEM DO?

Many of our clients experience loneliness or isolation and it is often a great benefit to receive regular visits from someone who can call in and spare the time for a chat.

Here's are some examples of things a GEM maybe able to do for a client:

Help with shopping

Help with tidying up

Helping with mail

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

We ask that GEMS are able to be supportive and prepared to listen, without making judgments.

We don't ask GEMS to hold any qualifications, however all our volunteers are encouraged to access training on suitable areas of interest.

OTHER INFORMATION

As a volunteer you will be provided with a pay-as-you-go mobile phone.

You will be expected to carry an official Senior Steps identification badge for the reassurance of our clients.

You will be required to undergo a CRB check (Criminal Records Bureau) and you can be assured that they are trustworthy and any information you tell them will be treated with, the up most confidentiality.

You will be paid for all your expenses, including travel, phone calls, drinks/food with client etc… So it wont cost you to volunteer!!

HOW DO I APPLY?

If you think you would like to volunteer as a Senior Steps GEM please contact:

Yvonne Davies - Manager of Senior Steps
Free Phone 0800 652 5612
Email: seniorsteps@buildingblocks.org.uk