Volunteer Facilitator for Gentle and Mindful Walking groups

This role involves organising and co-facilitating a gentle walking group for people aged 65 and over. If you like getting outside, walking, and engaging with the environment, this may be the role for you.

Ideally this role is shared between two or three people working together as a team; after some initial support, this group runs without the supervision of WSX Mind staff.

What's Involved: 

• A commitment to volunteering 6 - 9 hours per month (3 hours for the monthly walk, additional hours for planning and preparation)
• Administrative duties – research & plan walking routes; learn about different mindfulness techniques; conduct risk assessments; apply WSX Mind policies and procedures; keeping a register of attendance
• Planning/executing alternative activities in the event of cold/wet weather, such as meeting in a café
• Integrating elements of mindfulness – choosing mindful practices to use during walks/meetings and applying them in a way that is accessible to service users

Skills

What We Ask For: 

• Ability to encourage and motivate others
• Strong communication and listening skills
• A commitment to being part of the service on a regular basis
• Enthusiasm for supporting people, enabling them to achieve personal goals
• Experience with older people and understanding of their physical and mental health needs
• Familiarity with, or an interest in, mindfulness (formal training/experience is not required).

Benefits

• During the recruitment process you will be given access to our e-learning platform, Cornerstone, and you will be assigned several mandatory courses on various topics including health and safety, mental health and safeguarding
• You will be invited to a live induction session for new volunteers where you gain a deeper understanding of the organisation, and have the opportunity to apply your e-learning to various scenarios
• You will meet new people, have the opportunity to learn new skills and take part in regular in-house training.

Practical Considerations

• We will reimburse pre-agreed expenses in line with West Sussex Mind’s policy.
• Applicants must be physically able to facilitate & participate in walks in the Shoreham area. 
  

When do I need to be available?

Details	The role requires a total commitment of 6 - 9 hours per month The walks take place on the last Tuesday of each month, 11:15 - 1:30pm

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Register your Interest