accessibility & help

Care in the home volunteering

Volunteer and client have a cup of tea

Sometimes people need help in their own home for a few days or weeks – perhaps following an illness or hospital stay, or if their usual carer is absent. Could you spare the time to pop round to someone's house and brighten up their day?

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How would I be helping people?

If you like spending time with others and have a few spare hours each week, you could make a huge difference to someone's life during a difficult period. Your role might include:

  • keeping someone company for a few hours in their home
  • helping with practical tasks like shopping and basic cooking
  • helping someone regain their independence and confidence.

What skills and training do I need?

You should have good interpersonal skills and an understanding of the differing physical needs of service users. We provide basic training in social care and first aid skills.

How much time do I need to give up?

You and your volunteering manager will discuss how much time you are able to give. Since our volunteering opportunities depend on local needs, some areas may need volunteers more regularly or for longer hours than others. If one of our services requires more time than you are able to give, we may have other volunteering opportunities that fit your schedule.

Will volunteering cost me anything?

We reimburse all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses when you volunteer for us. Volunteers are asked to keep expenses to a minimum and to supply receipts. Please feel free to discuss this with a volunteer advisor beforehand if you have any worries or questions.

Why are volunteers needed?

Without volunteers we would never be able to give people the help they need in a crisis. Because we offer so many services across the UK, we depend on people who generously give up their time to help others.

How do I apply?

You can search and apply online for care in the home volunteering opportunities. You can also talk to a service manager about current opportunities near you.

Apply now

Related

The people we've helped

Our volunteers helped a couple through numerous health problems at a difficult period in their lives.

When Marjorie Stacey was discharged from hospital, she faced a problem – there was no-one at home to care for her.

More caring stories  >