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One third of people with dementia experience loneliness (NIHR, 2020). Loneliness in Dementia can be due to sensory loss, including visual and hearing impairments, and changes in cognitive functioning, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (Karska, et al, 2024). Lack of social interaction and stimulation is linked to further cognitive decline.
Memory Lane Volunteers aim to reduce loneliness whilst in hospital, providing stimulation and engagement, thus, improving quality-of-life and support for those living with dementia and their carers whilst in hospital.
ROLE SUMMARY – KEY AREAS:
• A Memory Lane Volunteer will provide 1:1 companionship and befriending within Macclesfield General Hospital.
• A ‘Memory Lane’ Volunteer will aid in enabling patients with dementia to feel engaged and involved, reducing social isolation and lack of stimulation.
• The Memory Lane Volunteer will undertake activities that maintain wellness, such as jigsaws, colouring, reminiscence, etc.
• Your involvement will aid people to feel confident, active, and focus on their strengths and abilities, reducing fatigue, and improving wellness whilst in hospital.
• This role will also aid a sense of ‘personhood’ recognising uniqueness of patients, including their hobbies, likes, and interests.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• To visit a person with whom you have been matched with (by the Admiral Nurse and/or Ward Manager), building a positive relationship with them.
• To provide company and companionship to this individual.
• To complete a visit sheet after each interaction, demonstrating activities that took place, and time spent.
• To liaise with staff on the ward where appropriate.
• Make and engage in activities of a stimulating nature, this includes memory boxes, reminiscence, board games, colouring, arts and crafts, listening to music, reading, and so on. A volunteer pack will be created for ideas and engagement for volunteers to use to inspire them.
• To provide companionship, reducing loneliness and social isolation.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
This role may be for you if:
• Are 16 years old or above.
• You want to help people with dementia stay active and stimulated
• You are passionate about supporting individuals to improve quality-of-life and reduce social isolation.
• Have knowledge of dementia, or willingness to learn.
• Have good communication skills.
• Able to maintain confidentiality, and show this in practice
• Willingness to attend induction and relevant training to this role.
• Are comfortable following role specification, including understanding of role limitations.
• Punctual and reliable
• Recognise protected characteristics and promote equality and promote dignity.
• Subject to DBS check.
TRAINING AND SUPPORT
• You will be required to attend the Memory Lane Induction training and participate in further training and network events that are offered.
• Ongoing support/supervision will be given by the Admiral Nurse and Volunteer Lead.
• Regular reviews will take place, with opportunities for peer support.
• Regular newsletters and updates will be provided via the Memory Lane Volunteer Service and sent to you via email.
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