Carer Coaching: Volunteer Assistant (Home based & In person)

Who Are We? 

Carers Support West Sussex is an independent local charity supporting some of the 70,000 family and friend carers living in West Sussex. With more than 30,000 carers currently registered with us, we are dedicated to offering unpaid Carers information, guidance, and emotional support. Our aim is to deliver a well networked and supportive approach for each carer in the city/town or village in which they live.

We have more than 80 members of staff and over 35 volunteers, as well as a dedicated team of Trustees, we are committed to ensuring carers are recognised and listened to. Carers save the UK economy more than £1 billion pounds to the West Sussex economy and more than £150 billion across England and Wales.

The Role: 

As a Carer Coaching assistant with Carers Support West Sussex, you will assist and support with delivering our Coaching group sessions (online or in-person). Using Coaching as a tool, these sessions are designed to help carers reflect on their wellbeing and take positive steps toward change. Click here to find out more about Carer Coaching https://www.carerssupport.org.uk/carer-coaching/. Working closely with the Lead Facilitator, you will help carers get the most from the session by creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

What Difference Will You Make? Our Volunteer Led groups play a crucial role in connecting and supporting carers throughout West Sussex. These groups are primarily led by individuals who are either carers themselves or have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by unpaid carers.

Tasks may include:

• Plan & Prepare: Awareness of and input into coaching session plans, resource preparation, and setup.
• Co-facilitate Sessions: Support lead facilitators in engaging participants and delivering activities.
• Foster Positive Dynamics: Encourage open communication, respect, and group cohesion.
• Attend Meetings: Participate in team discussions to share insights and celebrate successes.

Key Details:

• Location: Online via Zoom or in person. (venues used across the county) 
  
• Commitment: 5 consecutive weeks (2.5 hourly) sessions per Group Coaching Programme for ideally at least 12 months. There will be a two-week period in between each block. Additional time for team meetings and mentoring. Potentially Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. 

What skills do I need?

Skills & Attributes Needed:

• Passion for working with people and understanding carers’ challenges.
• Knowledge of coaching principles (desirable) and strong interpersonal skills.
• The general level of IT skills and competencies
• Empathy, patience, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Non-judgmental and able to manage personal and professional boundaries.
• Team-spirited and reliable