Digital Support Volunteer - OPAL

What is OPAL – Opportunities for Active Lives?

[Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk] OPAL works with people aged 60 and over, promoting active and fulfilling lives, creating and enriching communities which empower all to remain independent, living at home and socially connected.

The service is delivered by a team of dedicated, trained volunteers who offer encouragement, companionship and support to help people engage in social, leisure and community activities.

Our service is funded through a collaboration with West Lothian Council, West Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, and NHS Lothian.

What will you do as a volunteer?

You will be matched with a client who wants to learn about a device (phone, tablet, laptop) and through short weekly sessions, your support and encouragement could help them to:

• Understand the basics of using their chosen device
• Undertake specific online tasks such as email, joining online groups or web browsing and using search engines
• Feel connected and engaged
• Reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation and vulnerability

Does this sound like you?

• Over 18 years old
• Good at listening and engaging with people
• Friendly and easy to approach
• Reliable with good time keeping
• Patient and empathetic
• Respectful of confidentiality and do not judge
• Flexible to the needs and ability of others
• Able to work within set boundaries
• Able to keep accurate visit records and feed back to the team regularly

What can you gain from this opportunity?

• Rewarding experience making a positive contribution to a person’s quality of life, health, and sense of well-being.
• Develop training/teaching skills
• Develop empathy and listening skills
• Connect with new people and make new friends
• Gain work or study experience, career change or try new things further to retirement
• Personal development with training and ongoing support provided

What you need to know

• When volunteering, you will engage with people who may be considered particularly vulnerable in our society. It is therefore required that you are a member of thePVG scheme in Scotland. If you are not already a member, then we will process your application with you. There are no costs to you in becoming a PVG scheme member for volunteering with us.
• We cover local travel costs at public transport rate or mileage (45p per mile) and out of pocket expenses.

We will provide support and continued training needed for you to engage with the tasks and people in a safe manner.

You would need to have a good understanding of one or more digital device(s). For example, iPad, android tablet or phone, Windows or Mac computer, Chromebook etc.

How to Apply

Download the application form below

Volunteering interest form

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