Role Purpose:
To support Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) community services by offering time, skills, and enthusiasm to provide friendly, support to people living with dementia and their carers during the Forget Me Not Fridays Dementia group at Cwmbran Library. Volunteers will help create a safe, welcoming, and stimulating environment through conversation, reminiscence and creative activities. The role promotes social connection, wellbeing, and confidence for attendees whilst positively representing the Torfaen Library service.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide a warm welcome to attendees on arrival to help them settle in and feel included
- Support the provision of refreshments for group participants
- Offer companionship and conversation that is patient, positive, respectful and non-judgemental
- Support delivery of group activities (e.g., reminiscence, music, crafts, simple games, shared reading)
- Observe and sensitively respond to individual needs, including offering breaks or quiet space
- Set up and clear away furniture, resources, and activity materials before/after sessions
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold council values, policies, and procedures
- Report any concerns or relay participant requests to the group leader promptly
Requirements:
- This position is dependent upon the provision of an enhanced DBS check
- Friendly, approachable manner with good listening and communication skills
- Comfortable engaging with people living with dementia and their carers (training provided)
- Ability to work proactively and as part of a team; reliable timekeeping and attend agreed sessions
- Willingness to undertake the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends training
- Ability to participate in relevant Torfaen Council training (including health and safety and safeguarding training)
Skills & Experience (Desirable/Essential):
- Positive and engaging manner (Essential)
- Empathy, patience, and a calm approach (Essential)
- Experience supporting community groups or older adults (Desirable)
- An understanding of dementia and how it affects people (Desirable)
Support & Benefits:
- Full induction and relevant training provided
- Ongoing support and supervision
- Travel expenses reimbursed (subject to policy)
- Opportunity to gain experience, confidence, and new skills
- Certificate/reference upon request (after volunteering period)
- Risk Assessment will be performed by Health and Wellbeing officer for each volunteer
Equal Opportunities:
Torfaen Council is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and communities, including those with disabilities or support needs.