Organisation

Alzheimers Otago

Purpose

Alzheimers Otago provides post-diagnostic support for those who experience this life-limiting condition.

Description

Alzheimer's Otago is a local charity organisation working to support people living with Dementia and their families and whānau. Currently out core service is supporting those caring for people with dementia by working directly with families to ensure people with dementia and their carers can access the right support at the right time. Our Community Educators currently directly support more than 300 families in the region to help them navigate the day-to-day challenges of living with dementia.

This role will be responsible for making regular "keeping in touch" phone calls to a client list of care partners. This initiative was identified in a recent consultation with carers who said they would value a regular phone call from the organisation.

The phone calls are intended to provide a touch point with our lower needs clients to ensure they have regular contact with Alzheimer's Otago and, where needed, identify any challenges the carer is currently facing and escalate these to the Dementia Advisor.

The role would be based within an Alzheimer's Otago office. Induction and dementia training will be provided.

Key responsibilities include:

• Make regular phone contact with care partners

• Be a listening ear to care partners and listen out for issues that may require escalation to the Community Educator

• Utilise the client database to review notes, record phone calls and allocate tasks to Community Educators

Requirements

• Experience and understanding of dementia would be ideal, but not neccessary as training about dementia is provided

• A good phone manner and social skills (comfortable making conversation)

• Patience and empathy

• Be able to listen to clues in conversations that may point to unspoken challenges the client is facing

• Ability to maintain clear boundaries by not attempting to solve the client's problem but instead refer onto the Dementia Advisor

• Be a team player

Time Commitment

Approximately 2-4 hours per week, negotiable. We would like this role to be based in the Alzheimers Otago office, at least initially, so that the volunteer gets a feel for the service and the staff.

Background Check

Police check required (working with vulnerable adults)

Location

10 George Street, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016

How to apply

Please email Antoinette at manager@alzheimersotago.org.nz

Please copy (CC) volunteer@otago.ac.nz into your application email. Also, we have a great email template and helpful tips on making an effective application here: https://www.unicrewotago.org/aboutpriceless