Bereavement Comfort Call Volunteer roles now available

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is seeking new volunteers to join its Bereavement Comfort Call team.

The complex circumstances associated with dying, death and bereavement has led to an increased demand for this type of support, so if you’re an empathic person with good listening skills please consider becoming a part of this innovative service.

In this role, volunteers will make timely calls to the next of kin of those who die in hospital, offering condolences, a listening ear and signposting, particularly to those who are not aware of what services are available or those who require additional support.

Explaining more about what is involved, one of our current volunteers, Iris Johnston from Whitehead said: “I’ve been with the Bereavement Comfort Call service now for two years since my retirement.

“I can honestly say that during these sad circumstances for the families, it has been an honour and privilege to make these calls. I have spoken with families about their loved ones, sharing precious moments, allowing them to talk about the past and the way forward. At times they may be struggling seeing a path ahead and as a service we can signpost them, gently guiding them to suitable help as they navigate the grief process.

“Some of the people I phone would ask me during the call ‘how do you do it?’ I come off the phone knowing that I have helped someone by being a listening ear at a difficult time in their lives.

“We get great support from the Bereavement Comfort Call Team leaders and the team of volunteers who readily help each other.”

There are many benefits to becoming a Comfort Call volunteer, including the opportunity to make a positive difference to others in their time of need, and gaining a sense of belonging within our volunteer community. You’ll also get to experience a unique insight into caring roles, and develop your personal skills through training opportunities.

If you would like to find out more or to request an application pack email volunteer.service@northerntrust.hscni.net.

The closing date is 12 noon on September 14th 2023.

Please note that access to a laptop or PC and a mobile phone, as well as confidence using IT, are essential in this role.

Suitability conversations will take place during the week from September 18th.

Successful applicants will need to attend one of the following sessions.

• Causeway area: Friday 6^thOctober:10:15am-1:15 pm
• Ballymena area: Friday 13^thOctober: 9:30am-12:30pm
• Virtual: Thursday 21^stSeptember: 7pm-9pm

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Pictured above is Iris Johnston (far right) with other members of the Bereavement Comfort Call team including Louise McGreevy, Paula Byrne (Coordinator), Joyce Johnston, Maria McKernon, Leona Laverty (Bereavement Coordinator), Aileen Johnston, Phyllis Tweed, Sally Bonnes and Donna Taggart.

 

 

25th August 2023