Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions asked by those thinking of becoming an Association visitor - and their answers!

• How much time will it take up and will I be able to do hours that fit in with my other commitments?
• Will I be paid expenses?
• Who will support me?
• Will I be expected to liaise directly with health and social care professionals?
• Are there opportunities to develop in the role?
• Do I need access to a car?
• Is there likely to be a conflict of interest with my day job as a health and social care worker?

How much time will it take up and will I be able to do hours that fit in with my other commitments?

We look for a minimum commitment of approximately two – four hours a week. This will vary from person to person. As the role involves working with individuals whose needs will often change over time it is difficult to be prescriptive so a degree of flexibility is required.

Will I be paid expenses?

Our volunteers give us their valuable time, commitment and expertise to making a difference to people living with MND. The Association strongly believes that it should not cost them to do this and that all out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

Who will support me?

Support is available from a number of different places. You will use members of staff, other visitors, MND Connect, and other members of your branch as well as structured supervision and support meetings.

Will I be expected to liaise directly with health and social care professionals?

The core role of visitors is to offer support, provide information and signpost. It will involve visitors developing and building relationships with local health and social care professionals.

Are there opportunities to develop in the role?

There are many ways the role of the visitor can be developed. You may take on a strategic or influencing role in your area. You could make links with care centres, be involved in buddying other visitors or help to develop local support systems in your own and other areas.

Do I need access to a car?

No, it is possible to offer support to people by telephone, email or visiting using public transport but it may limit the opportunities and the amount of people you can visit.

Is there likely to be a conflict of interest with my day job as a health and social care worker?

Attending the visitor training course will help individuals to clarify the boundaries between their voluntary and professional roles. In practice many visitors with health and social care backgrounds choose to volunteer outside the area they would normally work in.