Community Eye Health Volunteer

Do you speak Urdu and/or Punjabi in addition to English and live in Govanhill or Pollokshields? Are you interested in health issues and want to give something valuable to your community? If so, we would like your help to increase the awareness of the importance of good eye health and regular eye exams. You will be working with the Govanhill / Pollokshields Pakistani community - particularly aged between 40 and 65. We are focussing on this specific group because of the high prevalence of certain eye diseases that, if caught early, could be treated well without serious sight loss.

This role does not require you to be a member of the PVG Scheme.

What will I be doing?

• Working with the local Pakistani community, liaising with community groups, attending events and working with BME health groups

• Providing eye health information and advice on local eye care services and entitlements - mainly at local events and venues
• Facilitating small group sessions which will increase the awareness and understanding of eye health and the risk factors that can cause serious eye disease.
• Facilitating small groups in learning and social activities that highlight the value of sight - e.g. needlework, car maintenance, cookery sessions …

What skills and qualities can I bring to this role?

• A willingness to learn about eye conditions and service provision

• Ability to get on with people, be positive and be able to listen
• Ability to speak Urdu and/or Punjabi in addition to English confidently
• Be willing to attend formal and informal training sessions and disseminate the information learnt
• Knowledge and familiarity with your local community
• An interest in health issues and BME communities
• Ability to be flexible - be committed to the project and contribute to its development

When will I be needed?

This is flexible. Timings will be arranged to meet your availability and the needs of the project. You must be able to give a minimum commitment to:

• Attend three half-day training sessions
• Lead 4 - 6 group sessions (Feb 2012 - Mar 2013)

Location

You will be volunteering in the local communities of Govanhill and Pollokshields. You should be able to get to local community venues and organisations either independently or by public transport.

What will I gain from the role?

• The knowledge that you are making a difference to your local community

• The chance to learn new skills and experiences that may enhance your CV
• The chance to meet new people, network and socialise
• Awareness of additional volunteering opportunities within the voluntary and health sectors

What support will I be given?

• Training on eye conditions, risk factors and eye care services entitlements
• Training on facilitating group sessions
• All out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed including expenses to attend training

How do I apply?

To apply for this role, please complete and return the Application form (Word 79KB) to volunteering@rnib.org.uk.

If you would like the application form in a different format (such as standard print, large print, braille or audio) or if you have any general enquiries, please contact the Volunteering Team on: 0845 603 0575 or 01733 375 450 or email volunteering@rnib.org.uk

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