Hospital Companion

Are you patient, understanding and able to remain calm in busy environments?

We are looking for volunteers to be the reassuring presence for older people when they are acutely unwell and may be confused or distressed. The role will involve acting as a friendly face, engaging in conversation and activities at the bedside and day rooms.

Companion Volunteers will be required to be highly motivated, and have good social and communication skills, getting to know patients and their families to better support patients during their time on the unit.

Volunteers will be based on one ward at University Hospital of Wales, which looks after those aged mainly over 65 years, who also have a dementia.

The role will involve engaging with patients who will have varying needs and levels of functioning and communication, as well as behaviours that challenge, and so will require resourceful volunteers who are confident communicators, have a good understanding about dementia and a willingness to learn.

Volunteers will need to be able to commit to 4 hours per week for at least 6 months.

Please read the full role description.