Post-Hospital Discharge Volunteer
Location: Westminster Bourgh
Reporting to: Wellbeing and Connections Service Manager
Time Commitment: Approx. 1-2 hours per week (flexible across weekdays, 10am–5pm)
About the Role
At Age UK Westminster, we are committed to enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life for older people in our community. Our Post-Hospital Discharge Volunteers play a vital role in this mission by helping individuals regain their confidence and independence following a hospital stay.
This is more than just a support role—it’s about empowering older people to reconnect with their community and achieve the goals that matter to them, whether that’s getting out for a walk, attending a social group, or simply regaining confidence in daily life.
Leaving hospital can feel overwhelming, particularly for those living alone and isolated. Volunteers help bridge that gap, providing reassurance, companionship, and practical support that promotes independence and helps individuals feel empowered again.
What You’ll Do
You will provide compassionate, short-term practical and emotional support to older people in their homes and local areas of Westminster. Your support may include:
- Offering companionship and building trust through regular visits
- Encouraging and supporting clients to work towards their personal goals
- Helping clients re-engage with the community—social activities, appointments, or simply going out again
- Assisting with light practical tasks like basic shopping or making light snacks
- Escorting clients to hospital or GP appointments
- Supporting digital inclusion- to access NHS appointments, online shopping. (with training provided)
- Signposting to other Age UK Westminster services where relevant
Through this person-centred approach, volunteers help older people rebuild confidence and reduce isolation, making a real difference to health and wellbeing.
What We’re Looking For
You don’t need any formal qualifications—what matters most is your attitude and commitment. We’re looking for people who are:
- Kind, empathetic, and patient
- Good listeners with strong communication skills
- Comfortable working on their own initiative, but know when to seek help
- Understanding of the needs of older people, especially after hospital discharge
- Respectful of privacy, confidentiality, and safeguarding
- Open to learning (e.g. digital skills, safeguarding, ordementia awareness)
- Reliable and willing to volunteer a minimum of 1-2 hours per week
- Willing to complete a DBS check
How We’ll Support You
When you volunteer with Age UK Westminster, you’re never on your own. You’ll be provided with:
- A full induction, covering Age UK Westminster’s services, values, and your role
- Ongoing training (including digital inclusion, dementia awareness, safeguarding, GDPR. Lone working)
- One-to-one support from staff, plus opportunities to connect with fellow volunteers
- Clear guidance and resources to help you feel confident and capable in your role
What You’ll Get Out of It
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of older people.
As a Post-Hospital Discharge Volunteer, you will:
- Gain experience in community-based and person-centred support
- Develop your confidence, empathy, and transferable skills
- Be part of a supportive and inspiring volunteer team
- Have the satisfaction of helping people achieve their goals
- Make a meaningful contribution to your local community
Whether you’re looking to give back, build experience, or simply connect with others your time and support can help change the lives of older people in the Borough of Westminster.
Join Us Today
If you’re ready to help make Westminster a place where older people feel supported, confident, and connected, we’d love to hear from you.