Aim or goal of position
We provide NODA (No one dies alone) support to people who are dying in care homes and hospitals in the Inverness and Easter Ross-shire area. On occasion, we may be asked to support a person who is dying in their own home.
NODA volunteers receive training and support to enable them to be with people who are in their final hours and/or days of life. The NODA service is available when there are no family/friends able to support or when they require a respite break.
This support is of great benefit to the individual and those caring for them. Following the initial training and completion of PVG membership, NODA volunteers are placed on a contacts list and are contacted by email/text when a request for support is received.
It is then up to each NODA volunteer to decide if they are able to offer a few hours of support.
Main responsibilities and suggested activities
To provide comfort and support to the person who is dying and to their family.
To provide a peaceful, calming presence that lets the person know they are not alone during their final moments of life.
To provide a listening ear when necessary.
To establish and maintain appropriate boundaries.
To alert care staff/family members to any change in a person's condition.
To report and communicate any concerns to the Team Lead, Service Coordinator or Service Manager.
To be available to support a minimum of one person per year.
To attend at least one Helping Hands NODA team meeting each year.
To maintain training/skills required for the role.
To adhere to Highland Hospice policies and guidance, including strict confidentiality.
To submit travelling expenses.
Skills / attributes and/or qualification(s) required
Ability to be with people who are dying.
Ability to work cooperatively with others as well as independently.
Demonstrate sensitivity to end-of-life issues.
Demonstrate a caring, empathic manner and a non-judgemental approach.
Demonstrate a calming presence and can use silence well.
Ability to judge what is required – reading to the person, listening to music or simply being present which may involve sitting quietly for 2-3 hours.
Demonstrate appropriate personal and professional boundaries.
Meet PVG requirements.
Estimated hours
Volunteers should be able to commit to a 2- 3 hour shift when called to sit with a person who is dying.Work site
Care homes, hospitals, and communities in the Inverness and East Ross-shire area.
