Support us (Walk the Wight) Volunteer Become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer today! Can you help Islanders adjust to the death of someone close to them? If you’re compassionate, a good listener, and keen to support people through grief and loss, becoming a bereavement support volunteer could be the perfect role for you. Our volunteers are here to listen to anyone who has been bereaved in our local community. We want to help as many people as we can – but we can’t do it without you. You’ll be supported every step of the way with high‑quality training and regular guidance from the Mountbatten Isle of Wight team. Apply here: Click here to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer “Being able to help people when they are at their most vulnerable is incredibly humbling and fulfilling." Click here to read why Penny values being a bereavement support volunteer. What does being a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer involve? As a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer, you will: Offer a calm, compassionate, listening ear to people who have been bereaved Support people to talk about their feelings, memories, and experiences in a safe, non‑judgemental space Help us accurately maintain our records after each contact, so that we can provide safe and consistent care Work alongside Mountbatten staff and fellow volunteers as part of a supportive team Take part in regular support and reflection sessions to help you in your role You’ll join a friendly, experienced team, meet new people, build your skills, and know that you’re making a real difference at a very difficult time in someone’s life. Apply here: Click here to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer What do you need to become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer? We’re looking for people who can: Offer warmth, patience, and empathy Be a compassionate and caring listener Communicate clearly and respectfully with people from all walks of life Understand and respect patient confidentiality and professional boundaries Be emotionally resilient in difficult or sensitive situations Work within Mountbatten’s policies, procedures, and guidance You don’t need previous counselling qualifications – we’ll provide full training. Experience of supporting others, or working in a caring role, is helpful but not essential. Time commitment A variety of hours are available to suit your availability We do ask for a regular commitment so that the people you support can rely on you There is no cost for training, but we ask volunteers to stay with us for about a year Recruitment checks To keep everyone safe, you will need to complete: An application form A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check – we will organise and pay for this Any other standard pre‑volunteering checks required by Mountbatten Isle of Wight Apply here: Click here to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer What training do Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteers receive? You will receive comprehensive training before you start, as well as ongoing support once you are in your role. Training includes: Bereavement models and theories An introduction to the key models and theories used to support people who are bereaved How these approaches help you understand and respond to different grief experiences Listening and communication skills How to listen actively and sensitively Asking gentle, open questions Supporting someone who is distressed, angry, or withdrawn Input on how volunteers can look after their own health and wellbeing when supporting others How the training is delivered A mixture of presentations, small group work and pairs exercises Role‑play demonstrations will be carried out by the staff facilitating the training – not by volunteers There is no cost for the training. In return, we ask that you commit to volunteering with us for about a year, so that we can offer continuity and make the most of the skills you develop. Apply here: Click here to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer Why become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer? Grief can feel isolating. By volunteering your time, you help ensure that no one in our Island community has to face bereavement alone. As a bereavement support volunteer, you will: Offer comfort and understanding at one of the most challenging times in a person’s life Help people feel heard, valued, and less alone Extend the emotional and practical support Mountbatten Isle of Wight can offer to local people Gain valuable skills and experience in communication, resilience, and supportive listening Your time and presence are powerful. Even a single conversation can make a lasting difference to someone who is grieving. How to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer. Ready to help? Join our volunteer team and make a visible, local impact. Click here to apply and become a Mountbatten Isle of Wight bereavement support volunteer Need more information about volunteering with Mountbatten Isle of Wight? Click here to find out more about volunteering with Mountbatten Isle of Wight Manage Cookie Preferences