Volunteer Tai Chi Instructor (Oaklands Centre)

Oaklands Ward is a low security, 16-bed mixed ward for people with acute mental health problems. Some diagnosis include psychosis, bi-polar, EUPD, depression and anxiety. Ward has a secure garden, Sports Garden, Female lounge, TV lounge, Dining Area, Communal Space, Therapy Room and mixture of en-suite bedrooms and shared facilities.

We are looking for a Tai Chi Instructor to facilitate cross ward sessions for the benefit of our service users.

The volunteer will co-facilitate the group alongside their OT team supervisor and / or a member of the OT team. The supervisor will be responsible overall for the group allowing the volunteer to focus on and lead the activity.

As a volunteer instructor you will be responsible for introducing Tai Chi and facilitating Tai Chi sessions - taking into account feedback from the OT team supervisor and service users, especially in regards to any physical limitations a person may have or impact of mental health on ability to participate. You will be expected to be able to accommodate a range of physical ability. All Tai Chi exercises demonstrated will be non contact.

The volunteer instructor will need to be able to communicate clearly and encouragingly to participants in the session and may be asked to help encourage participation beforehand.

We ask that volunteers commit to one shift per week for a minimum of 6 months.