Volunteer Receptionist

Job Description:

Job Description:

The Kirkwood operates a busy reception function at the Hospice. The role of Volunteer Receptionist will complement our dedicated team of Reception Coordinators, to provide a high-quality service.  The Volunteer Receptionist will work closely with their reception colleagues and other Kirkwood employees to ensure that the philosophy of welcome and care is extended to patients, families and visitors.

Key Tasks:

• Welcome visitors to the Hospice in a courteous and friendly manner and direct them appropriately
• Answer incoming calls and transfer promptly to individuals and/or departments
• Take messages as required and ensure that these are accurately recorded and passed on promptly
• Support with deliveries for patients or departments on site
• Assist with a range of services provided to visitors, staff and patients          
• Receive donations, completing the necessary documentation
• Support the service with smooth handover processes
• Operate a till system for the process of purchases

Personal Qualites:

This role does not require any specific qualifications:

• Empathy: Sensitive to the needs of the person they are speaking with. Able to show compassion, kindness and patience.
• Communication: Can adapt their communication style to the needs of the person they are speaking to either face to face or over the telephone.  Able to ask appropriate questions in order to direct visitors/callers to the correct person/department. This includes non-verbal communication and active listening. Have knowledge of what information should and should not be shared, always adhering to our strict Confidentiality Policy. Understands their responsibility in relation to safeguarding a vulnerable adult.
• Relationship Building: Confident at building a rapport by making others feel comfortable and at ease by being professional, friendly and approachable.  Displays a high level of honesty and integrity. Aware of their own emotions, and tolerance levels acting without judgment.  Appreciates the time and emotional commitment required and the potential emotional challenges involved in this role.
• Organisation: Recognises the importance of being punctual, reliable and consistent. Able to demonstrate flexibility to support our services.
• Motivation: Is genuinely committed to making a positive difference to people’s lives. They are enthusiastic and committed to the role.
• Teamwork: Understands the importance of volunteering as part of a team. Able to use initiative and act independently with the knowledge of knowing when to seek support.

Key Requirements:

We are keen to hear from anyone who have:

• Excellent communication and listening skills
• The ability to be flexible
• A desire to support the Kirkwood
• Smart appearance

And who are:

• Reliable and consistent
• Helpful and dependable
• Able to volunteer within defined role boundaries
• Able to comply with our strict Confidentiality Policy
• Willing to undertake training

Location:

The Kirkwood - 21 Albany Road, Dalton, Huddersfield, HD5 9UY

Recruitment, Induction & On-Going Development:

• Volunteers are required to complete an application form, provide two references, and obtain a Standard DBS Disclosure.
• Volunteers are required to complete on-line training and specific training/mentoring will be provide for this role.
• On–going supervision, training and development will continue throughout your volunteering with The Kirkwood and support is always available from the Volunteer Services Team. 
• To keep up to date with requirements and legislation directly relevant to this role, some training will be repeated on an annual basis.

Minimum Suggested Time Commitment Per Week:

• 2 x vacancies every Saturdays - 1.30pm until 5pm.
• 2 x Ad-hoc vacancies Saturday 1.30pm until 5pm
• 2 x Ad-hoc vacancies Sunday 9am until 5pm which could be split it 9-1pm and 1-5pm

Interested in this role?  

If this sounds like the role for you, get in touch with our Team. We aim to respond within 48 working hours.  

Email: Sarah.turner@thekirkwood.org.uk

Or call: Tel: 01484 557 900  

Volunteering at The Kirkwood

Volunteering with The Kirkwood is open to people of all ages and backgrounds. And the great thing is that a little of your time can make a massive difference to what we can achieve!

Volunteering has been a part of the fabric of The Kirkwood since the idea of a ‘Hospice for Kirklees’ was first conceived over 35 years ago. Over the years, thousands of local people have offered their time and skills as volunteers, and The Kirkwood you see today is a testament to the fantastic contribution they have made.

Everyone associated with The Kirkwood knows only too well the real difference our volunteers make to the running of our services, and it’s true to say we simply couldn’t do it without them!  

And don’t forget, it’s not ‘all work and no play'! Volunteering with The Kirkwood gives you the chance to meet new people and make new friends, join in volunteer celebration events, socialise with other members of your team.  

Is it your time to make a difference?  

About The Kirkwood

The Kirkwood is a local Charity providing specialist care, free of charge, to adults in Kirklees living with life limiting illnesses in Kirklees.  

We are a team of clinical and medical professionals, fundraisers, chefs, receptionists and cleaners. We are supporters and volunteers. We are patients, carers and families. We are a movement of people motivated by our shared vision to provide the very best care for the people of Kirklees.

Please note that only one reference is needed for our retail roles. This reference must come from an individual you have known for a minimum of 12 months.