REACH Volunteers

Reach is a pilot project which supports our older LGBT+ Community with telephone companionship. Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin and SAND  (Safe Ageing No Discrimination) are working in partnership to reach more older LGBT+ people and increase visibility and support for the LGBT+ Community. .

Location: Home based

Reach is a service providing a free, regular telephone call, suitable for individuals who:

• Identify as LGBT+ or care for an individual who identifies as LGBT+
• Are isolated or feeling lonely
• Have access to a landline or mobile telephone
• Would benefit from calls on a weekly basis

As a volunteer you will be expected to:

• Commit to making, at a minimum, weekly telephone calls
• Provide and facilitate non-judgmental, friendly conversation aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation
• Attend training and meetings that may be held
• Complete a call report at the conclusion of your call
• Report any concerns in relation to the welfare of the person who you support
• Keep up to date in relation to community services that may provide signposting opportunities for the person who you support 
• Demonstrate an understanding or a willingness to learn about the history, needs, complexities and cultural sensitivities of the LGBT+ community and their allies.

As a Reach pilot project volunteer you will be expected to:

• Complete a questionnaire before commencing Reach training
• Be prepared to provide feedback about your involvement in Reach

As a volunteer at Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire you will receive a full induction, including training from both Age UK H&W and SAND. You will also receive a DBS check.

For more information please email volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk or call 0800 008 6077 Alternatively, please complete the application form below: