Volunteer Community Support

Role summary 

As a Community Support Volunteer, you will play an important role in the Compassionate Communities programme by helping people talk about death and dying, grief and loss as well as raising awareness about St Helena Hospice services. We believe that breaking down taboos and getting people talking is key in helping communities support each other.

Your role will involve:  

• Offering a welcoming, supportive presence and a listening ear to allow people to engage in meaningful conversations around topics such as incurable illness, caregiving, dying and bereavement. This may include signposting to relevant community support or care provision.

• Establishing contacts within the community and building relationships.

• Supporting St Helena in informal sessions or larger events that may be held in community groups, charities, cafes or other organisations.

• Helping to promote Compassionate Communities principles and the work of St Helena in a positive, accessible way. 

• Connecting with St Helena staff and partners before and after events to give feedback and receive support.

• Assisting with basic event logistics such as setting up spaces, offering refreshments, distributing materials, and collecting informal feedback.

What skills do I need?

Training & supervision 

• Online mandatory training relevant to the role 
• Compassionate Conversations training – online/in person 
• Dedicated line manager for training and support with regular meetings 

Experience & qualifications required 

• Experience in a role involving interaction with the public, especially in a supportive or listening capacity 
• Understanding of the importance of compassion and empathy when discussing sensitive topics 
• Ability to maintain personal and professional boundaries 
• Comfortable speaking with people from a wide range of backgrounds 

Personal attributes  

• Passionate about St Helena 
• Excellent communication skills with a polite and pleasant manner, empathetic and emotionally resilient 
• Able to work independently and as part of a team 
• Respectful, 

Interests

• Civic Responsibility and Communities
• Health and Social Care

Activities

• Advice and Information
• General Helping
• Local Events
• Supporting Charities
• Supporting People and Befriending