Children

Cancer Focus NI

Family Support Assistant

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland is a local cancer charity working since 1969 to reduce the impact of cancer on people's lives. We provide care and support services for cancer patients and their families; offer a range of cancer prevention programmes to help people lessen their risk of getting cancer; fund scientific research into the causes and treatment of the disease and campaign for better health policy to protect our community and its future.

Role Description:

Purpose of the Role:

An essential part of that help is to support the children through a difficult and scary time in their lives through talking and creative play. This voluntary role assists the Family Support worker with the smooth running of our children's groups, bereavement projects and Parents Support Evenings.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• To help set up the rooms and prepare the activities for the children
• To take part in the group on all levels to support the children- holding discussions/role play etc.
• To provide a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults, listening to their concerns and responding appropriately
• To help with arts and crafts
• To play with the children
• To clear up after activities and refreshments
• Must be over 21 years old
• You must be available the first Wednesday of every month from 6pm to 9:30pm
• Volunteers will get the most out of this role if they help out for the full academic year

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience of working with children
• An ability to use your initiative
• An ability to be calm and dependable and adapt to changing situations
• To  be able to play and have fun
• Excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work as part of a team

Additional:

• We have Family Support groups operating in Ballymoney and Armagh as well as our offices in Eglantine Avenue, Belfast.
• This role entails an application process including Access NI police check and reference check.
• Full training will be provided covering all aspects of the role
• Out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed (in line with agreed guidelines)