Forget-Me-Not Cafe Champion

Forget-Me-Not Dementia Support is looking for long term volunteers to support the delivery of their monthly Forget-Me-Not Cafe by creating a welcoming, inclusive & supportive environment for people living with dementia & their family members, carers & supporters. These sessions will be run in the Geraldton library, once a week on a Monday morning.

The role focuses on encouraging social connection, reducing isolation, facilitating conversation and participation in activities, and helping attendees build meaningful relationships within their community.

Essential: • Friendly, welcoming and approachable manner. • Interest in supporting people living with dementia and their family/carers. • Open-minded attitude and willingness to learn. • Patience, empathy and understanding.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to actively listen and engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to encourage participation and facilitate social interaction.
• Reliable and able to work as part of a team.

Desirable:

• Lived experience supporting or caring for a person living with dementia, or personal experience of dementia within a family or close support network.
• Experience working with older adults, people living with dementia, carers or support groups.
• Experience facilitating games, activities or group discussions.
• Knowledge of Dementia-Friendly communication techniques.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with setting up and packing down the café space, activities, etc.
• Welcome participants, family members and carers as they arrive and help them feel comfortable and included, provided each person with a name badge to wear during the event.
• Engage in friendly conversation and support social interaction between attendees.
• Encourage participation in available activities such as puzzles, word searches, quizzes, riddles, interactive animals and other engagement activities.
• Facilitate a group reminiscence activity or game that encourages attendees to share memories, stories and experiences.
• Support a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere where all participants feel respected and valued.
• Provide a listening ear and demonstrate empathy and understanding when interacting with attendees and carers.
• Observe participant wellbeing and refer any concerns to the support worker/carer.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Be punctual and notify a Forget-Me-Not committee member in advance if unable to attend.

If you are 21 years and above, and have the much needed experience, please apply and support this meaningful cause.