Singing for the Brain Group Volunteer

Singing for the Brain provides a structured group session for older people with dementia who may wish to attend alone or with a carer. The service is designed around the principles of music therapy and singing and offers everyone a chance to socialise and have fun in a safe and supported environment. The Beaconsfield Singing for the Brain group is a large, well-established and lively group which meets most Friday mornings between 10:15am and 12noon. It's supported by a wonderful team of volunteers who come along at about 9:45am to help set up and who remain afterwards for a similar amount of time to clear away. It's held at The Fitzwilliam Centre, Windsor End in Beaconsfield, HP9 2JW. The role of volunteers at the group is to support the Group Coordinator and Singing for the Brain group lead to make sure each session runs well. For this role, in addition to the activities shown below, we are looking for someone who will be able to set out and then clear away the tables and chairs at each session. This involves moving around 6 large tables and approximately 30 or so chairs. A sack trolley is available but whoever comes forward needs to be able to move furniture safely and without injury. Other activities include: - Putting out signs, Society materials and Songbooks - Welcoming and chatting with people with dementia and their carers - Supporting the Singing for the Brain Leader by joining in songs and encouraging participation - Making and handing out teas/coffees, collecting in and washing up - Helping the Group leader ensure the session goes well The role will suit you if you... - Are fit and active and able to move furniture safely - Enjoy music and singing - Have good verbal communication skills - Are happy volunteering as part of a team of volunteers and staff - Have some understanding of dementia and its impact on people or if not are willing to learn - Are willing to help out where needed in the group and help ensure those who attend have an enjoyable time You don't need to be able to sing well to volunteer at the group - enthusiasm, empathy and an understanding of what the group is trying to achieve is what's most important! The impact you will make... One of the Society's most well-received services, Singing for the Brain offers a wonderful opportunity for people with dementia and their carers to get out and about, meet other people and share the enjoyment of a good old fashioned sing-along. What you need to know: We need to ensure that people living with dementia who benefit from our services are safe. In order for us to do this we interview, check and train our volunteers in on-going roles. If you have an accessibility need we'll make reasonable adjustments to enable you to volunteer. This role also requires a criminal records check - there's more information in the role description. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We will make you feel welcome, included and respected because together we are united. How to apply: If you have any questions about the role or would like to apply, please contact Jane Penton on 07540 921 221 or at jane.penton@alzheimers.org.uk or by post to Floor 1, Ardenham Court, Oxford Road, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 8HT You can also get in touch with our Volunteering Support Team on 0300 222 5706 or at volunteeringsupport@alzheimers.org.uk. We'd love to hear your thoughts, questions or feedback.