Our Helping Hands befriending team provides meaningful social support for individuals who are isolated or feeling lonely to connect with others—supporting their overall health and emotional well-being. It’s incredible how having companionship can brighten someone’s day/week and significantly improve their quality of life.
The people we support are living with deteriorating health, while some may have limited mobility, others remain active and enjoy outings with their befriender. Our volunteers are a valued part of our team. In addition to mandatory training, they are invited to regular catch-up meetings and inclusive group sessions that help build a strong sense of community.
We’re currently looking for someone to help coordinate our regular “Brew and Blether” sessions—friendly, informal gatherings where clients and volunteers can come together for a chat, a cuppa, and some much-needed social connection. These sessions are a key part of our work to reduce loneliness and build community.
Main responsibilities and suggested activities
Identify and book suitable venues for group sessions, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all attendees
Share session details with volunteers using the volunteer management system (Better Impact)
Maintain accurate attendance records by tracking participation through the volunteer database
Organise catering arrangements, including placing and managing food and drink orders for each session
Coordinate volunteer involvement for each session, including:
Setting up and tidying the venue, Serving refreshments, Providing transport for clients to and from the venue, Assisting individuals who use mobility aids, Offering one-to-one support for clients who may need additional attention or interaction
Skills / attributes and/or qualification(s) required
Use of the Better Impact volunteer management database (training will be provided)
Strong organisational abilities, with attention to detail and effective time management
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
Reliable, adaptable, dependable, and punctual
Comfortable interacting with individuals experiencing declining health
Able to approach others with calmness, compassion, empathy, and sensitivity, maintaining a respectful and non-judgmental attitude
Meet PVG requirements
Estimated hours
Approximately 2 – 4 hours weeklyWork site
Highland Hospice, Ness House, 1 Bishops Road, Inverness and external at various venues
