Volunteer Opportunities

Client Outreach and Support - Christchurch

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We are looking for a friendly, self-motivated person to facilitate connections, relationships and support within the ME/CFS community in greater Christchurch.

Can you help us make a significant different in the quality of life of people impacted by this chronic illness?

Tasks include:

  • Assist the facilitator of our in-person group meetings in Christchurch (set up and pack down, provide friendly conversation).
  • Facilitate in-person connections between local people e.g. share contact details, or meet with a small group at a park.
  • Provide and facilitate social, emotional and practical support for local people, including friendly calling or transport (only as able).
  • Participate in our online peer support group (Facebook) to encourage connection and improved wellbeing.
  • Refer people to our Registered Nurse Service or Work and Income Advocacy team, when required.
  • Refer people to our Outreach programme for practical support including housework, gardening, IT issues, etc.
  • Share approved information about ME/CFS or that is relevant to living with a chronic illness.
  • Maintaining client records of interactions and services provided.

A position description is available for this role.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19xeuRAaLn-6gt4pfTZ2a9E5LMSNVCmck/view?usp=drive_link

Did you know?
People with ME/CFS, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis /Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have a reduced level of functionality that means they cannot complete normal activities of daily living. An additional burden is that doing too much physically or mentally can trigger Post-Exertional Malaise – a worsening of symptoms that can last for days or more. Many people with ME/CFS are house or bed bound, are unable to work, and do not have access to adequate financial, home and mobility supports through the welfare and health systems.

Requirements:

ESSENTIAL:

  • Able to always exhibit and share the values of MECFS Canterbury: Compassion, Respect, Equity, Patient-centred, Collaboration.
  • Warm, kind, non-judgmental, and calm manner.
  • Develops trusting and productive relationships.
  • Good time management and organisational skills, and able to work without close supervision.
  • A full New Zealand Driver’s Licence.
  • Clean police check.
  • A good level of English language skills and an ability to communicate clearly

PREFERRED:

  • A qualification or experience in the health, disability or social work sectors
  • An understanding of ME/CFS, or a similar chronic disabling condition, the impacts on quality of life, and associated disabilities.
  • An understanding of the impact of stigma and inadequate health, social and financial supports for our clients.

A Police background check is required for this role.

Time commitment:

We estimate up to 6 hours per week.

Christchurch in-person meetings are on the last Wednesday of each month from 1pm to 3pm.

Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.

Ref: 522

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Demographic information:
Used anonymously for statistics to demonstrate our impact to funders.
Other information (optional):
In applying for this position I confirm that I have read the requirements of the position and believe I have the skills and attributes required to carry out this role safely and effectively.

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