Face-to-Face Drug and Alcohol Carer (D&A) Group Volunteers

D&A Carer Groups

Carers often have challenging experiences with people’s attitudes towards their caring role and can feel that they cannot talk to family members, friends, or other organisations. The D&A groups offer carers a safe space to talk through their concerns and really be heard. Carers can talk in confidence about any issues and know they will not be judged, having an understanding from others in the groups, and feel like they are not alone.

The role of the volunteer:

The D&A carer group volunteer will support the group alongside another volunteer or a CSWS staff member, creating a non-judgemental safe environment, for carers to talk about their caring roles and not feel stigmatized.

The D&A volunteer will:

• Welcome and support new and regular attendees to the groups.

• Assist in preparing and closing the meeting space. (This may include moving chairs and tables, depending on the venue).

• Support with tea and coffee.

• listen and respond to issues and concern.

Skills

Skills and qualities you will need:

• To be a good listener, and be confident in groups of people

• Caring and empathetic, and non-judgemental.

• To be able to keep your own boundaries with people.

• To be able to take advice and direction from a member of CSWS staff.

• You will get full training; however, it would be desirable if you had an understanding of addiction, mental health, and autism (mental health and autism can also be an issue identified by carers at our D&A groups).

• Basic IT skills (support is available if necessary).

Benefits

• Volunteer Induction including full D&A induction and training, including mental health and autism training, and ‘shadowing’ an experienced member of staff.
• Online training including children and adult safeguarding, data protection, and health and safety.
• Volunteer expenses as agreed (e.g. travel expenses). 

Practical Considerations

The role is partly home based, and you will need:

·       Access to a computer, laptop, or iPad/tablet to attend meetings and training

·       Internet access within your home

·       Access to a phone.

When do I need to be available?

Details	• Time: Monthly on the 3rd Tuesday, 17.30 - 19.00 pm. • Commitment: 2 - 3 hours per month, minimum 6-month commitment.

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Where does this role take place?

Register your Interest