Community Music For Dementia group assistant

We have delivered our ‘In Time Together’ programme for many years, working with older people and those living with dementia in dozens of care settings across the county. Alongside our work in residential homes we recognise the need for a similar provision that can be accessed by those living with dementia in the community.

Initially delivered as a pilot project, the Community Dementia group will take the principals and approach of our work in care settings and bring it to a warm and friendly community setting which is open to anyone living with dementia. We are inviting particiapants to join us with their family, friends or carers to sing familiar songs, try a range of instruments and to have a chat with a cuppa! The main duties include:

• The practical support of participants, for example through the sharing of instruments, aiding the holding of equipment, giving basic instruction and guidance
• Encouragement and engagement of participants
• Supporting the refreshment break by making and delivering teas and coffees
• To welcome participants and their carers into the space (providing housekeeping and venue tours where required)
• To provide a compassionate and non-judgemental listening ear
• To support the music leader in the smooth delivery of the session, such as handing out and collecting instruments, singing along to songs, conducting
• Supporting the collection of information for registration and monitoring purposes where required
• Working as a team to set up and pack down the space, including the cleaning of equipment where necessary.
• Responsibility for ensuring safeguarding issues are managed in accordance with Musical Keys safeguarding policies and procedures
• It is not necessary to commit to every Saturday, we have a pool of volunteers that we are looking to increase so that at least two volunteers can support the group at each session.

First Friday of the month, Martineau Hall, Norwich, NR3 1BN 10.15 - 12.00 (music 10:30 - 11:15 with refreshments 11:15 - 11:45)

Please note that all voluntary positions are subject to a formal employment process, including references and employment history, and the completion of a DBS and appropriate safeguarding training.