Dementia Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Group - Volunteer

Role Purpose:  

To support in the running of the Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) group and to assist in delivering high-quality, person-centred Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) groups for people living with mild to moderate dementia.  This role will cofacilitate in ensuring the smooth running of the group and to support the group facilitator to run the group efficiently.  

Main Responsibilities:  

• To support our two practioners in facilitating CST groups (typically 8–12 participants) in line with the CST model.  
• Support in delivering structured yet flexible sessions (45–60 minutes) using dementia-inclusive communication, sensory supports and differentiated prompts to meet varying cognitive and communication needs.   
• To aid in the development and co-facilitation of CST groups, using your own ideas and NHS approved techniques.  
• To provide a warm welcome to anyone attending the group and promote inclusivity, breaking down barriers to participation.  
• Maintain continuity by supporting the same cohort for the full 14-week cycle wherever possible, building rapport and psychological safety.   
• Assist in collect and record baseline and end-of-programme outcomes and feedback (adapted for accessibility).  
• Promote participation and retention: provide clear information.  
• Identify, assess and manage risks dynamically during sessions (e.g., distress, behavioural change, wandering, physical health concerns), applying de-escalation and dignity-preserving approaches.   
• Recognise, record and escalate safeguarding concerns immediately in line with Havant and East Hants Mind policy and local multi-agency procedures; seek advice from the Team Leader/Designated Safeguarding Leads as required.   
• Contribute to quality assurance: participate in supervision, reflective practice, peer observation and fidelity checks; implement learning and service improvements.   
• Assist with room set-up and report and resolve any hazards/issues.   
• Represent the service professionally within the community and across partner pathways, supporting awareness-raising and equitable access.   
• Support paid practitioners with the facilitation of  occasional carer peer support sessions that run alongside the CST group in a caring and supportive way.  

Skills

Essential Requirements:

• Friendly and approachable.  
• Skills in managing your own health and wellbeing.  
• Ability to understand and communicate effectively.  
• Willingness to undertake training, in particular around CST online and other e-learning.  
• To be confident in working with a group and facilitation skills.  
• An Enhanced DBS will be required.  
• To have own transport or be able to get to venues.  
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.  
• Enthusiasm for supporting Havant and East Hants Mind’s purpose and objectives.  
• Demonstrate dependability on agreed role commitments, providing sufficient notice and open communication regarding any changes (e.g. your availability).  

Desirable Requirements: 

• An understanding or lived experience of dementia.  
• Accredited CST training or experience of CST.  
• Qualification in health, social care, psychology, occupational therapy, nursing, counselling or a related field (or equivalent experience).   
• Access to own transport.  
• Knowledge of the issues surrounding older people with mental health problems and the effect these can have on their day to day lives.  
• Knowledge of Older persons services, carers services and dementia related issues.   
• Good verbal and written communication skills.  
• Ability to overcome communication barriers and knowledge of specific tools required to do so. 

Additional Notes:  

This role requires two references in line with our safer recruitment policy as well as an enhanced DBS check.  

Due to the training we ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months for this volunteering role and a weekly commitment.  

For further information about this volunteer role please contact: volunteering@easthantsmind.org