"Check In And Chat" Telephone Support Volunteers

To volunteer with Age NI, you must be at least aged 17, be able to hold down a conversation and can commit to a maximum of one hour a week to chat to an older person.  

You will provide some reassurances to older people, answer basic queries and link people to local services and for more complex queries, to our Advice Line on 0808 808 7575.

What will you be doing?

• You will make a weekly telephone call to a local older person and liaise with them directly to arrange your calls. This call could be between 10-30 minutes
• Engage in meaningful conversation, providing company and a friendly voice to someone who may be isolated and lonely
• Complete a contact log at the end of your call which will be returned to the Check in and Chat Coordinator
• Report back to the Check in and Chat Coordinator if any needs arise or if the older person needs to be signposted to another organisation for further support
• Provide reassurance

What skills/qualities do you need?

• Reliable, friendly and approachable
• Can build trusting and supportive relationships with older people over the phone
• Excellent communication and active listening skills
• Empathetic and sensitive approach
• Ability to work independently, using your own initiative but knowing when to seek support
• Organised
• Ability to adhere to GDPR procedures/maintain confidentiality

When?

The role is very flexible and can be tailored to suit you and your service user. 

What support will you get?

• A thorough and virtual induction training with an e-training pack (approx. 30 mins)
• A central point of contact (Check in and Chat coordinator)
• Supervisions and ongoing support

What will you gain?

• Fulfilment – feel good about making a positive, life changing difference
• Learn new skills
• Gain social interaction and a chance to develop friendships
• Gain knowledge on available services and activities
• Boost your CV and increase your employability

What our volunteers say:

“I’ve made firm friends, met lots of lovely people and gained self-confidence. Try volunteering; it’s a wonderful feeling to help improve later life for another person.”

99% of our volunteers enjoy their role!

Why do we need you?

Age NI’s mission is to improve later life for everyone – but we need your help – now more than ever.

The harsh reality for many older people affected by the coronavirus pandemic is that they may need to self-isolate to reduce the risk of developing the virus.  This brings many challenges, including isolation and loneliness and unable to avail of essentials such as food or collecting medication.

Additional Information:

• This role is only suitable for those 17 and over
• This role is subject to an informal interview, enhanced Access NI check and a reference check.
• Once all recruitment paperwork is complete volunteers will attend a virtual training session.

Ready to register?

Contact: Val Gamble, Head of People and Development at volunteering@ageni.org or by telephoning 028 90245 729.