Information

We know from research and our own experience that creativity stimulates conversation, aids concentration and even improves memory retention.

With pencil or paintbrush in hand, we see people with dementia expressing themselves freely and finding new ways to communicate.

In the company of art tutors and others with dementia, our artists find friendship, purpose and acceptance. As their confidence grows, so do their smiles.

Main Function

We are looking for volunteers with either social or artistic skills, talent or experience to support adults with dementia who come along to our Heart for Art groups. You will work in a group or 1-1 to help group members to realise their ideas on canvas/paper using a variety of art materials.

Main Duties

Work in a group or 1-1 with an adult with dementia during an art session.

Befriend those with dementia and provide guidance to group members, helping them to realise their ideas onto canvas whether landscape or portrait, still life or abstract. No art experience is necessary as the art tutor is on hand.

Help set up and clear away art materials.

Personal

You will be invited to visit the service and meet the staff team and other volunteers prior to starting. At these visits, both or either party may decide not to proceed with the application.

The application form asks for 2 references (not necessarily from an employer) and completion of a self-declaration form.

A PVG (Protected Adults) must be completed and must be returned by Volunteer Scotland before you can start your volunteering..

Induction Training and Support:

You will be given an induction when you start, and a range of training including Safeguarding, Data Protection/Confidentiality. Additional training will include dementia awareness.

Ongoing review: There will be the opportunity for a review during the first month of volunteering, and at this review, both or either party may decide to end the volunteering arrangement.

Mission Statement

Just as we work with clients of all faiths or none, we welcome service volunteers from all walks of life. We do ask that our service volunteers are in sympathy with our Christian ethos and values, but they are not required to share our faith. Our Mission Statement is:

“In Christ’s name we seek to retain and regain the highest quality of life which each individual is capable of experiencing at any given time.”

Skills and Abilities

 We are looking for people with:

• Talent or an interest in activities, arts and crafts
• An art background is appreciated but not required
• A welcoming and friendly manner
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Commitment
• A sense of humour

• Kind and compassionate manner
• Good listening skills