Could you volunteer for Macmillan in Liverpool?
Based at Royal Liverpool Hospital, the Macmillan Cancer Support Centre provides practical, emotional, social, and financial support to anybody affected by a cancer diagnosis throughout every stage of their cancer journey. The centre also consists of a complementary therapy service for cancer patients and their carers.
The Centre needs experienced volunteer complementary therapists who can offer massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and/or reiki. At the moment, they don’t have enough volunteers to offer therapies to our patients and their carers. The more volunteers who get involved, the more people affected by cancer they centre will be able to help.
Due to the pandemic, the support centre would also like to offer complementary therapies to all critical care staff based at the hospital. This would be for a trial period and, if successful, they are hoping to roll this out to all hospital staff as a way of saying thank you to everyone.
- How much time should you offer?
A minimum commitment of four hours per week. However should you wish to offer more than the minimum this can be discussed.
- When would you be needed?
Shifts are available between Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm.
Macmillan are asking for a regular commitment for at least 6 months.
- Where will you be based?
This role is based at Royal Liverpool Hospital, Prescot Road, L7 8XP.
The majority of treatments take place in our calming and relaxing therapy rooms.
- You will need to be a Level 3 qualified complementary therapist and a member of a recognised professional body with current professional indemnity insurance.
- The position is likely to involve working alone without supervision but within the service protocols and guidance.
- You will need to be aged 18 or over and recruitment to this role will be conditional on a successful interview and satisfactory recruitment clearance.
What activities will you be involved in?
• Meeting and greeting patients and clients, including people affected by cancer.
• Being an advocate for The Macmillan Support Centre by informing staff and visitors of what we offer.
• Giving patients and carers information about the therapies on offer.
• Delivering any of the therapies as stated above.
• Making an assessment of need and referring a person to Macmillan Support Centre staff.
• Attending briefings, training and any peer support sessions which may be organised.
Although you would be working alone it is expected that you be available to receive supervision / mentoring of your work from an experienced practitioner.
Please note that some interactions will be emotionally demanding for which you will be fully supported through training.
What can you gain from this opportunity?
There are a number of benefits including:
• Volunteering for the NHS is an opportunity for meaningful work experience and civic engagement.
- Being part of an enthusiastic team that is dedicated to helping others.
• Meeting and working with new people.
• Making a difference to the lives of people affected by cancer.
• The opportunity to utilise or develop your inter-personal, professional, customer service skills, boosting your CV and support in continuing professional development.
• Travel expenses will be reimbursed according to Trust guidelines.
Is there an induction and training?
You will attend the volunteer induction programme when you start and will be given the training you need to complete the role.
This will consist of attending Macmillan Cancer Support Centre, and will cover topics such as:
• Introduction to Macmillan and boundaries of the role.
• Listening attentively and responding appropriately.
What skills and abilities are we looking for?
• Warm and caring, professional and polite, someone who can help us offer a supportive and friendly service.
• Strong communication skills, able to listen effectively and help direct people to the help they need.
• Able to work with a range of people and willingness to learn.
• A qualification in any of the following: reflexology, aromatherapy and massage therapies at level 3.
• An interest in cancer care and the services that Macmillan and the hospital provides.
• Able to adhere to Macmillan’s and NHS policies including health and safety, equal opportunities protocols.
The Cancer Wellbeing Centre aims to support patients and carers affected by a cancer diagnosis by providing a range of appropriate complimentary therapies during and after cancer treatment. If you are a qualified complimentary therapist and able to volunteer on a regular basis or require more information about this service or volunteer vacancy please contact Macmillan Cancer Support Centre on 0151 706 3720 or Email: macmillansupportcentre@liverpoolft.nhs.uk
Please note: if you have a personal diagnosis of cancer we would recommend you are 18 months post treatment before applying to become a volunteer.