Introduction: Age UK Bristol’s Helpline serves as a vital gateway for thousands of older people across the city to access the services they need. We are looking for volunteers who have strong communication skills, an aptitude for problem-solving and an enjoyment of working with a diverse range of people. This is an opportunity to take on a highly rewarding role, and to be part of a committed team of volunteers, who are well supported by paid staff to provide signposting, support and reassurance to callers. The role is a hybrid role with the option of working from our central office. Minimum commitment is 3 hours per week.

The Helpline is run by Age UK Bristol and acts as the first point of contact for the Support Hub for older people, which has been developed by the organisations listed below to help older people since the Covid-19 outbreak.  Anyone calling will be given information, advice and support across our respective services.

Currently the Support Hub includes the following:

Active Ageing 

Age UK Bristol  

Alive!

Alzheimers Society   

Bristol & Avon Chinese Women’s Group

Bristol After Stroke

Bristol Ageing Better

Bristol Older People’s Forum

CRUSE

Independent Age   

LinkAge   

RSVP West   

St Monica Trust   

The Marmalade Trust 

The Reader    

WE Care Home Improvement

The Helpline is staffed with Age UK Bristol volunteers who respond to queries, signpost and refer to Support Hub partners. 

This a hybrid role with the option of working in our offices. If working from home, each volunteer will need:

• Reliable internet connection which can allow video conferencing applications such as Zoom
• A smartphone
• A computer or tablet

The qualities and skills required for this role are:

• Excellent communication and listening skills
• Confidence using new applications and software
• Ability to assimilate new information and convey it in a calm and friendly manner
• To have an understanding of the needs of older people
• To have an understanding of the barriers older people may face
• Punctuality and reliability

Training 

We offer induction, training and other relevant training opportunities to enable you to fulfil this volunteer role.

Hours  

We are currently asking for a minimum of 1 shift of 3 hours each per week. The shift runs 10:00-13:00 Monday to Friday.

Location

The role is a hybrid role with the option of working from our central office. .

Expenses

We do not anticipate there being any expenses relating to this role but if reasonable expenses arise (such as travel to central office) we will seek to reimburse these.

Further Information  

For further information please contact:

Jayne Connell| Admin Support Officer

Email: volunteering@ageukbristol.org.uk