You do not need your own vehicle to apply for this role as we can provide a car and insurance. You do need a full, clean driving licence though.
The Supportive Transport Service is a key part of what we offer. It provides transportation to individuals living with or affected by HIV and/or Hepatitis C, helping them meet medical, social care, and daily needs. This might include transport to medical appointments, community activities, or essential errands like grocery shopping. Many Service Users face barriers to traveling independently due to factors such as limited mobility, social anxiety, or financial constraints. In addition to transportation, our drivers often provide a supportive presence by listening or helping individuals reflect on information shared during appointments. Many service users emphasise that this service enables them to attend vital medical appointments that they might otherwise miss. Our drivers contribute much more than just transportation – they play an important role in supporting overall wellbeing.
About Positive Help
Positive Help’s mission is to provide practical support to enable people to access treatment and support to live well with HIV and/or Hepatitis C in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Our friendly support services are delivered by volunteers supported by staff. Our tailored support addresses an individual’s fundamental and individual needs, such as medication, nutrition, and safe living environments, while fostering social connections to reduce isolation and stigma. As many Service Users are receiving medical treatment, trying to stay healthy is important. Visit our website to learn more: https://www.positivehelpedinburgh.co.uk.
Experience Required
We do not require any experience for any of the roles. We do ask for Supportive Transport drivers to have a full UK driver’s license. We are looking for friendly and understanding volunteers who are ready to support individuals to a range of appointments. Empathy, patience, reliability, and a caring, non-judgmental attitude. Good listening, timekeeping, and relationship-building abilities. Upholding Service Users’ confidentiality and maintaining boundaries.
Training Details
Our training covers a range of topics including information on HIV and Hep C; stigma and discrimination; maintaining boundaries; Adult protection protocols and trauma informed approaches. All volunteers are required to complete a mix of in-person and online training with other volunteers. This is usually four 2-hour sessions in the evenings for a 4-week block. We will also provide you with First Aid training. Once you start volunteering, you will meet with your Coordinator for support meetings every 6 months, however this can be more regular if you need. We also offer ongoing training and peer support sessions to enable you to fulfil your volunteering role with confidence! We are happy to provide references for you to help you into future employment or education.
Flexibility & Commitment
School Holidays;Term Time
The service runs Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. We do ask volunteers to provide us with a specific day/time which they are available in advance. This is so we can plan effectively.
Location/Travel Details
You will be setting off from your home address then travelling to Service User’s homes to pick them up or provide home support. You will be given your schedule two working days before your volunteering day. We request all volunteers to provide a Log on/Log off message to ensure personal safety.
Expenses
After each session you will complete a feedback and expenses form. You can claim money back for the cost of public transport/fuel. You will then be reimbursed within a week of submitting the form.
Accessibility Details
- Happy to have a conversation about volunteer’s needs
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