Service Background
Cazaubon Ward is a 21-bed inpatient dementia assessment ward based at East Ham Care Centre.
The ward provides specialist assessment and treatment for older people from Newham, Tower Hamlets, Hackney and the City of London who are experiencing complex mental health needs associated with dementia and other degenerative brain disorders.
Cazaubon Ward provides short-term assessment, with an average length of stay of approximately six weeks. The service works with patients, families and carers to understand each person's needs, life history and circumstances and to provide individualised, person-centred care.
The multidisciplinary team includes Consultant Psychiatrists, junior doctors, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, art and music therapists, community nurses, social workers, clinical support workers and care staff. The team also works closely with care coordinators, GPs and other community professionals.
East Ham Care Centre provides a dementia-friendly environment, with large en-suite bedrooms, therapeutic spaces and access to private gardens.
Patients are supported through individualised therapeutic programmes and a range of meaningful activities, which may include food preparation, reminiscence, discussion groups, arts and crafts, music and other social activities. These activities support engagement, independence, wellbeing and quality of life during the patient's stay.
Essential Skills:
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To be over the age of 19 years old.
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Must be a student (2nd year student plus) who is currently or has previously studied in a Healthcare related course.
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To be physically able to carry out the work required.
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To be able to communicate clearly and have good interpersonal skills.
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To have positive body language
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To have good time management skills.
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The desire to help others and engage in therapeutic activities.
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Patience.
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Ability to remain calm and be a good listener.
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Reading aloud to service users.
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Speaking to carers/staff.
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Knowledge of dementia or willingness to learn about this diagnosis and its impact on the service user and their family/carers.
Desirable Skills (not essential):
Languages of Residents
Various – languages of current service users include English, Bengali, Swahili, Greek and Turkish.
Benefits for Volunteers
This is an opportunity for people who have an interest in working with older adults who have dementia. You will be able to develop a sound and holistic understanding of this client group.
You will be able to improve rapport and communication skills using a friendly, empathetic approach.
You will be able to utilise skills of individual and / or group work in a person-centred manner. You can make use of peer support with other volunteers during your time supporting the residents.
You will gain further understanding of the inner workings of NHS mental health services.
You will be able to interact with NHS staff members, ask questions and learn from them developing networking connections and opportunities.
Benefits for Patients
You will help to improve the well-being and quality of life of care service users. You may brighten their day by having a friendly chat or supporting them to engage in activities that takes their interest. The time you spend with them will be greatly valued.
Benefits for Staff
Staff members at Sally Sherman and external partners will be grateful for your time spent with service users. Your input will help to provide out of hours therapeutic engagement to service users that may otherwise prove difficult.
Ward Induction Details
- A formal induction on the ward during regular office hours will take place prior to volunteers beginning their role.
- You will have the opportunity to observe group sessions currently taking place.
- You will be provided with information for your learning about dementia and invited to training sessions.
- You will receive continuous support from the ELFT Volunteer Service Team as well as the ward team.
Development Opportunities
You will develop various skills in your volunteer role. You will also learn about physical and mental health conditions, relevant to the patients who you will support.
You will receive continuous support from the ELFT Volunteer Service Team as well as the ward team.
Expenses
- Travel can be claimed for journeys to and from your volunteering base.
- A receipt is required/ bank statement.
Health & Safety, Confidentiality & Equal Opportunities
Volunteers must abide by the East London NHS Foundation Trust policies on Health and Safety, Confidentiality and Equal Opportunities.
Insurance
In the event of an accident whilst undertaking any part of the volunteer role on behalf of East London NHS Foundation Trust you will be covered by the relevant Trust insurance policies as long as relevant health and safety procedures have been followed.
