Community Visitor

This post forms part of our community support services and has arisen from a review to determine how we can better meet our clients’ needs. Many clients, having had their immediate needs met through the community outreach workers, may struggle to cope in the long term with issues such as bereavement, coping with chronic illness or receiving a terminal diagnosis, struggling as a carer or having to move home due to frailty or infirmity. Although their immediate issues are resolved, these clients need ongoing emotional support to enable them to cope with their situation on a daily basis. The community visitor will support and encourage clients to cope better with their situation and work towards them being able to live a happy and rewarding life.

Core functions of the post

• To carry out regular home visits (currently door step visits) and phone calls to clients as requested by your line manager
• To work with clients towards developing a strategy enabling them to cope better with their situation
• The role involves face to face interaction with older people (some of whom may be living with dementia and other mental health issues, substance use and dual diagnosis) and also with family carers and volunteers
• You will need to have a strong commitment to equality and diversity and to understand your responsibilities relating to safeguarding older adults.

Experience

Essential -

·Experience of working or volunteering with older people

·Experience of mentoring /coaching others (paid or unpaid)

Desirable –

·Experience of working with people with dementia and/or other mental health issues

·Experience of working with people with substance use issues

·Experience of working in a team

·Experience of recording information on a database

·Experience of working for a charity or in the voluntary sector

Knowledge & Understanding

Essential -

·Knowledge of the issues affecting older people

·Knowledge of Irish culture and issues affecting older Irish people

·Understanding of confidentiality requirements and data protection

·Computer literate

Desirable –

·Knowledge of safeguarding and the issues of working with adults at risk

Skills and Attributes

Essential –

·Excellent interpersonal skills

·Excellent organisational skills

·Ability to listen effectively

·Ability to make and maintain great relationships with others and someone who is able to help others make contacts and friendships

·Ability to work on your own initiative and also be a great team player

·Demonstrate tact, diplomacy and empathy in dealing with a wide range of people

·Demonstrate a flexible attitude to the demands of the role and the needs of the charity

Southwark Irish Pensioners Project (SIPP) is a small charity working with more than 400 older Irish people across 3 south London boroughs, providing day services (currently closed due to coronavirus) and community support services to enable them to live happy and healthy lives.
Our mission is to alleviate their isolation so they can live with dignity consistent with their personal choices and preferences.
Our Values
• We act with kindness and compassion
• We respect every individual
• We are culturally aware
• We are practical and hands on
• We build trusting relationships
• We encourage friendships, happy memories, community spirit and a deep sense of belonging.