Volunteer Complementary Therapists help provide complementary therapies to patients and carers connected to the Wellbeing Service at the Hospice. The St Leonard’s Wellbeing Service encompasses a range of services to support patients affected by life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families, friends, and carers, across our region. Treatments take place in a dedicated therapy room under the direction of the Complementary Therapy Lead. When treating patients, treatments are short and generally very gentle due to the nature of their illnesses.

This a highly rewarding role helping to promote relaxation and a feeling of wellbeing. It is possible that this role will in time be extended to include treating visitors, staff, and volunteers.

Note:  Volunteer Complementary Therapists are subject to an Enhanced DBS, checked against the Adult barred list.

When am I needed?

Initially we need volunteers who are qualified in massage, reflexology or reiki on Wednesdays 12.30-4.30, usually on a fortnightly basis. We will be expanding this service to encompass a wider range of therapies on alternative days and times so please let us know your skill set and availability.

What will I be doing?

The role is likely to develop over time but initially your role will include:

• Providing pre-agreed complementary therapy according to your skill set and under the direction of the Complementary Therapy Lead
• Liaising with other staff and volunteers across the Hospice
• Preparing the therapy space prior to and after each treatment
• Making accurate records of treatments
• Maintaining the highest standards of practice and professional responsibility
• Reporting any concerns for a patient’s wellbeing, or any disclosures made to you, in a timely manner and in accordance with hospice safeguarding procedures (training will be given)
• Adhering to policies concerning confidentiality, infection prevention and control, moving and handling, and health and safety

What skills and qualities will I need?

• A nationally recognised qualification in your given therapy
• Current registration with a professional governing body and evidence of valid insurance
• Evidence of at least 1-year recent professional practice
• Be willing to undertake CPD activities and maintain active registration with a recognised Complementary Therapy body
• Be comfortable working with patients with life limiting illnesses – it might be possible to offer therapies to staff and volunteers only. Please let us know if this is your preference
• Be aware of contraindications or precautions in relation to the therapy practised and be able to adapt a treatment accordingly
• Be warm, compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental
• Be able to engage people and put them at their ease
• Have good quality listening skills – training and refresher training will be offered
• Be self-aware and able to reflect on your own experiences and feelings – regular opportunities to reflect will be offered by the wider Wellbeing Service staff
• Have a good understanding of personal and professional boundaries
• Be able to maintain confidentiality within the bounds of our safeguarding obligations

How will I benefit from being a volunteer Complementary Therapist?

• Use your time and skills for a good cause
• Make a huge difference to peoples’ sense of wellbeing
• Gain new skills and experiences
• Boost your CV
• Be part of a friendly and inclusive team
• Be valued and respected

Support and Supervision

Volunteers will be supervised by the Complementary Therapy Lead who will provide you with full role training and support and liaise with you over all aspects of your role. Additional support will be provided by the wider Wellbeing Service team. 

The Volunteer Services Team will help guide you through the application and induction process and be your point of contact for general enquiries about volunteering.

Volunteers are required to complete mandatory training modules which are usually delivered via our online platform. Additional, booster and refresher training may be delivered as needed via e-learning, video links or face to face. You may also be invited to attend role specific in person meetings where appropriate.

For all volunteering enquiries please contact the Volunteer Services Office on 01904 777765 or email volunteers@stleonardshospice.org.uk

About the Hospice

St Leonard’s Hospice provides care and support to those living with life-limiting illnesses and to the people they care about. We couldn’t carry out the important work we do without a committed and talented team of Volunteers and Supporters – people of all ages, and from all walks of life who help us provide care, assistance, and support throughout the organisation, as well as promoting the work of the hospice in local communities and raising crucial funds.