ABOUT VOLUNTEERING for the WEST SUSSEX LOCAL INVOLVEMENT NEWORK

With the exception of the small host team that manages and supports the West Sussex Local Involvement Network (LINk), the work of the organisation is undertaken almost entirely by volunteers. For example, it is volunteers who make up the elected Stewardship Group and the teams who visit hospitals and care homes ('Enter & View') to report on how services are delivered.

As the network's work programme expands and develops, there are even more varied and flexible volunteer opportunities. Volunteers don't have to have a background in health or social care or be in a position to commit large amounts of time, but they will be concerned about care, justice and compassion in the delivery of Health & Social Care services.

As a volunteer, and depending on your skills, experience and preferences, you could be involved in a range of activities including helping to review dignity and quality of care in hospitals and care settings, being a mystery shopper for health and social care services, monitoring the impact of changes in social care services (including interviewing users), and or presenting our 'Stroke Awareness' DVD to community groups. There could be opportunities to help out with interviewing, administration and project management.

For young people or students, some time spent working with the LINk could be a useful addition to their CVs.

All volunteers will receive free training as required (like interviewing techniques, and infection control in care homes) and because of possible contact with vulnerable individuals and confidential information, all LINk volunteers are CRB checked. And of course, expenses incurred in volunteering activities are reimbursed.

If you think you might be interested, click here for more information or email Mark Habibi at mark.habibi@helpandcare.org.uk