Job Vacancies

Carers’ Dementia Guardian Project Officer

Post:	Carers Dementia Guardian Project Officer
Salary:	£24,000 pro rata (based on a 37 hour working week)
Hours:	30 hours per week
Duration:	2-year fixed term with an extension dependant on funding
Base: Responsible to:	Hybrid Working with base at is VASL, Torch House, Torch Trust, Market Harborough LE16 9HL Carers Service Manager

General Information about VASL Carers Dementia Guardian Befriending Project

The Carers Dementia Guardian started as a pilot scheme and has now successfully secured funding for a further two years. The main purpose of the role is to manage a befriending scheme which provides social and practical support to family carers whose quality of life has been severely impacted by caring for someone with dementia.

Job purpose

The Carers Dementia Guardian Project, initiates, supports and monitors a relationship between a volunteer carer guardian and a carefully matched carer. The aim is to offer companionship and support, not a care service.

The post holder will be required to manage all aspects of the Carers Dementia Guardian Project, including recruiting, training and supporting up to 10 volunteers. You will be responsible for the publicity, promotion and raising awareness of the project. You will be required to inspire, enthuse volunteers, partners and the local community to become involved with project. The role will also be responsible for developing the framework and training programme for volunteers and quantifying the benefits to apply for future funding.

Main tasks

Recruit, train, monitor, manage and maintain Carers Dementia Guardian befriending volunteers
Actively identify and liaise with VASL Support for Carers Team to identify carers eligible and who would benefit from a volunteer.
To make initial assessment and any further assessments as may be necessary to those carers referred to the scheme.
To match and introduce suitable volunteers to carers referred to the scheme.
To maintain appropriate records for the scheme, including volunteer and carer records, expenses claims, correspondence and case studies
To attend events organised by outside agencies where appropriate
Manage the messages on the Carers Dementia Guardian section of the VASL website
Work with partner organisations to maximise the impact of the project and foster good working relationships
Effectively manage small budgets and ensure grant conditions are met
Complete monitoring reports to VASL board and funders as required

Additional Requirements:

To play a full part in shaping the future of VASL through taking an active and contributory part in staff meetings/workshops/strategy discussions
To recognise and actively promote the VASL Equality Opportunities Policy.
To work under the principles of good practice in volunteer management.
To comply with safe working practices in accordance with VASL’s Health and Safety policy and current Health and Safety legislation.
The post holder should have regular access to a vehicle. You will be based at VASL offices in Market Harborough, however there will be a significant amount of travel and outreach work across the Harborough District is required that the vehicle has a suitable level of insurance cover (i.e. business and professional cover).
To attend any relevant training courses as may be required.
To respect all aspects of confidentiality and work to the VASL’s current confidentiality policy.
To carry out tasks as directed by the Charity Manager
Please note the successful candidate will need to be flexible, with regard to the responsibilities and duties of the position in line with the ongoing requirements of the funders.

For an application form and further details please contact hr@vasl.org.uk
Closing date is 7th August 2024, however if there are a high number of applicants the date may be brought forward.

Posts are advertised on our website, our facebook Twitter and Instagram pages, and on Indeed.

Registered Charity No: 1141274

Registered Company No: 7517828

Details of our volunteering opportunities