Volunteer Pet Therapist

• Ayrshire Hospice

• VO101701

Background
The Ayrshire Hospice provides excellence in palliative and end of life care for patients and their families.
We support people who are aged 16 years and over, who have a diagnosis that is life limiting - this includes respiratory and heart diseases, neurological conditions as well as cancers and other illnesses. In addition, our Family Care Team also support children and young people – as well as the wider family unit – with counselling and bereavement services.
Where necessary, we provide a seamless transition from young adult hospice services to our care.

Our care seeks to improve quality of life in various ways, for example; we support and advise on symptom control, provide emotional and spiritual care, social care and we provide personal care when it is needed at the end of life.
We also have pharmacy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy specialist services as well as our much-valued complementary therapy and Respite and Response services. Care is provided in a number of places including NHS Ayrshire and Arran hospitals, care homes and people’s own homes as well as in our In-Patient Unit and Living Well Hubs. In fact, we can provide care anywhere a person considers their home to be, regardless of the complexities associated with this.
Family members, close friends and carers are also supported both during a person’s illness and in bereavement.

The Role:
This is an incredibly rewarding and uplifting opportunity for you and your “four legged friend” to join our team. As a volunteer pet therapist, alongside your beloved pet, will have the chance to bring joy, comfort and companionship to
hospice patients and their families who appreciate being able to touch and stroke a friendly animal; bringing a smile to their face.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and walks of life. We value the unique perspective you bring to our team.

Key Responsibilities
Be assessed and registered with an appropriate organisation such as Therapets or Pets As Therapy, and complying with that organisation’s rules, health precautions and annual checks
Provide appropriate animal interaction for the patients, visitors and staff in the In Patient Unit (IPU)
Stimulate interest, encourage social interaction and promote a sense of wellbeing
Have the ability to help within the boundaries of the role, maintaining control of your animal at all times
Avoid areas and/or specific people where requested.
Keep in touch with Senior Charge Nurse/Charge Nurse to arrange visits and advise if unable to attend
Attend relevant training and team meetings
Ability to cope in emotional and, sometimes distressing situations
A high degree of self-awareness
Be a great listener and enjoy meeting new people
Possess a sensitive and calm approach to situations

How to Apply
www.ayrshirehospice.org
The Ayrshire Hospice welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Experience is not essential for this role, but ideally you should demonstrate:
Skills and Experience
Be a team player and willing to work within guidelines provided but also
responsive to patients needs as they arise
Be responsible and reliable
Willingness to uphold the values of the hospice

What You Will Gain
A platform to showcase your furry friend
Rewarding experience in bringing joy to our patients and their families.
An opportunity to gain experience in the charity sector.
The chance to take on a new challenge and meet new people.
The satisfaction of making a difference in your community.
Training and support to carry out your role.
Reimbursement of expenses in accordance with our volunteer expenses policy.
Adhere to the relevant policies and procedures of the hospice
Complete an application to join the Disclosure Scotland PVG Scheme or a
Scheme record update if you are already a member

If you’re a pet lover and want to make a meaningful impact in your community, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today to join our team and help us capture the heart of the Ayrshire Hospice. Please complete our volunteer enquiry form, which can be found on our website:
Alternatively, call 01292 269200 to request a paper copy of the form.

Experience required

The Ayrshire Hospice welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Experience is not essential for this role, but ideally you should demonstrate:
Ability to cope in emotional and, sometimes distressing situations
A high degree of self-awareness
Be a great listener and enjoy meeting new people
Possess a sensitive and calm approach to situations

Travel details

travel expenses are paid

Travel expenses

travel costs refunded

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