Exploring the role of volunteers in social care for older adults
Quality in Ageing and Older Adults
ISSN: 1471-7794
Article publication date: 1 July 2020
Issue publication date: 15 July 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to report the findings of a study that explores the contribution volunteers make to social care for older adults, identifying lessons for the social care sector and policymakers.
Design/methodology/approach
An exploratory multiple case study design was used to capture the perspectives and experiences of managers of services, volunteer co-ordinators, volunteers, paid care staff and older people. Seven diverse social care organisations took part in the study drawn from three locations in the South West of England.
Findings
This study identified three distinct models of volunteer contribution to social care services for older people. Although the contributions made by volunteers to services are valued, the study drew attention to some of the challenges related to their involvement.
Research limitations/implications
The organisations taking part in this small-scale study were all based in the South West of England, and the findings are therefore not generalisable but contribute to the growing evidence base related to this important field.
Practical implications
This study demonstrates the importance of the volunteer co-ordinator role and suggests that it is properly funded and resourced. It also confirms the importance of volunteers receiving appropriate training and support.
Originality/value
Given the increasing involvement of volunteers in the provision of social care, this paper provides lessons to ensure the role of volunteers in social care enhances rather than diminishes the quality of care provided.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This study presents independent research funded by the NIHR School for Social Care Research (Grant Number C088/CM/UBDA-P119). The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NIHR School for Social Care Research or the Department of Health and Social Care, NIHR or NHS.
Citation
Cameron, A., Johnson, E.K., Willis, P.B., Lloyd, L. and Smith, R. (2020), "Exploring the role of volunteers in social care for older adults", Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Vol. 21 No. 2, pp. 129-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/QAOA-02-2020-0005
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited