Could you volunteer to support unpaid carers?

Would you like to learn new skills, or use your existing ones, helping others? Are you looking for a way to contribute positively to your community and to meet new people? If so, have you considered volunteering?

Carer Support Wiltshire is a local charity which supports unpaid carers and is looking volunteers.

“Someone is an unpaid carer if they support someone who is unwell, has a disability or is elderly,” says the charity. “Many people support family members and they do so because they want the best for the person they care for. But caring for someone can be very difficult, emotionally, and physically, and can leave the person caring feeling worn out and isolated.

“We are currently looking for volunteers to fill vacancies that directly support people who are caring for someone. If you would like to find out more, or if you have a skill you feel could be put to use, we’d love to hear from you.”

Local vacancies:

Here to Talk Telephone Befriender

“The Here to Talk service provides low level emotional support to carers across Wiltshire,” says the charity. “You will be a friendly voice at the end of the phone, a listening ear and someone who will provide reassurance during challenging times. Successful applicants will have excellent listening skills and be empathetic and non-judgemental. You will be able to commit to a minimum of half an hour every two weeks. Full training is provided.”

Carer Cafe Facilitator

“We are looking for volunteers to help run our carer cafe in Melksham. You will need to be able to commit to a minimum of two hours per month. The aim of this role is to create a safe and supportive group environment for unpaid carers at a local venue, providing them with a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities. Training will be provided.”

For more information on volunteering for Carer Support Wiltshire, email volunteer@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk or call 01380 908158.