TIDES APHASIA GROUP SLP VOLUNTEER

Volunteer Activity/Position Description

Purpose of Position:

Volunteers work under the direction of the TIDES Speech Language Pathologist to assist clients with speech impairments (Aphasia), in improving their social, pragmatic and communication skills in a group setting.

Skills or Qualifications Required:

1. Mature individual with strong interpersonal and communication skills

2. Reliable and responsible

3. Sensitivity towards the implications of speech impairments

4. Interest in the field of Speech Language Pathology

5. A desire to learn about augmentative and alternative communication

6. Ability to take initiative while always staying within the boundaries of this position description

7. Must have received a recent flu shot to work between Dec. 1 and March 31 each year.

8. Ministry of Justice Criminal Record Check

9. Vancouver Coastal Health online training- Hand Hygiene and Confidentiality

Training & Support:

1. Volunteer Orientation provided by Coordinator, VCH Volunteer Resources

2. A 3 hour training program provided by the Speech Language Pathologist on how to support client’s individual communication strategies

3. Onsite support during group sessions by the TIDES Rehabilitation Assistant

4. Ongoing supervision and support provided by the Speech Language Pathologist

Duties/ Responsibilities:

The goal of the Aphasia group is to provide an opportunity for clients to continue to work on improving their speech. Clients work with volunteers to practice communication strategies, to encourage communication, to build confidence in a safe environment and to improve self-monitoring. Volunteers will be expected to meet prior to and after each group session to plan and complete paperwork.

Shift Days /Times:

1.5-2 hours per week.

Minimum Commitment:

6 months

Location:

Community based group meeting place, to be determined.

Supervising Staff Person:

Speech Language Pathologist