Complex Needs Housing Service Volunteer for Hertfordshire Mind Network

Welwyn Hatfield Community And Voluntary Services Limited; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Before you can register your interest for this opportunity, you must be registered as a volunteer.

Register with the Volunteer Centre, or if you have already registered, please log in.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is a mental health organisation that promotes mental wellbeing and provides a diverse range of recovery-oriented services to residents across Hertfordshire. We are the largest mental health provider in the county, supporting over 5,000 clients annually.

We are looking for individuals with personal or professional experience of mental health. The ideal volunteer will have an unconditional positive regard towards how others live, maintain good boundaries, and be willing to offer their time and reliability to support clients in the community and their own homes. A full UK driving licence and access to a car are required. Basic computer skills are essential for updating our system with notes from client meetings.

Opportunity Type: Long-term Commitment

Districts: Broxbourne, Dacorum, East Herts, Hertsmere, North Herts, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford, Welwyn/Hatfield

Location: Indoor

Time of Day: Weekday Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings

Practical Considerations:

• Training
• Travel expenses
• Experience with the Complex Needs Housing Service

Time Commitment: Minimum 1 hour per week

Requirements: Criminal record check (DBS) clearance

Suitable for: Aged 26 and over, University students, Older people

Interested in volunteering for: Crisis Support, Health and Wellbeing, Isolation & Loneliness, Mental Health, Men’s Issues, Voluntary & Community Action

Wheelchair Access: No

Full Description

Purpose of the role:

Volunteers will provide a six to eight-week "step down service" supporting clients after discharge from the Complex Needs Housing Service. Responsibilities include:

• Supporting clients with complex mental health needs in the community
• Helping previously homeless clients settle into permanent accommodation
• Assisting clients to engage with available services
• Encouraging access to social and recreational activities

You will aim to improve clients' wellbeing by adopting a holistic approach, providing a listening ear and creating a safe space for clients to share their thoughts and feelings. Your support will help individuals live independently within their community.

Main Tasks:

• Liaise with the team
• Attend hand-over meetings for new clients
• Advocate for clients
• Provide emotional support
• Signpost to relevant organisations
• Access community groups
• Encourage and reassure clients
• Attend meetings and appointments (including occasional transport support)
• Access training opportunities
• Support administrative tasks related to move-in (e.g., council tax forms)
• Attend initial assessments with CNH staff