Volunteers:Media

Volunteer role description

Media volunteer

Volunteers are vital to Alzheimer's Society's goal of improving the lives of people living with dementia. Thank you for giving your time. This role description is designed to give you clarity about what you are going to do and who will support you in it.


How does this role make a difference?


By speaking publicly about your experience of living with dementia you will help to raise awareness of dementia and challenge the stigma that surrounds the condition. The press office can give the media facts and figures, provide experts and talk about research, but it is personal experience that makes a real impact.


What will you be doing?

• Speaking to journalists about your experience of dementia

• Giving interviews to broadcast journalists, this could be at home or in a studio

• Taking part in filming in your own home, for example, TV crews may want to film you carrying out your daily activities

• Providing photographs or having your photo taken to support the story

• Representing your own experience rather than representing Alzheimer's Society.

Volunteers are good at adapting to local need. So this role description highlights the kind of activity you may be involved with. Every media request we receive is different and volunteers always have the opportunity to decline an interview or request.


Will the role be suitable for you?


No previous experience is required. The role may be ideal for you if:

• You have current experience of dementia and are happy to speak about it

• You want to help raise awareness and address stigma

• You have good oral communication skills

• You are not a representative of Alzheimer's Society in another capacity.


How will you be supported in this role?


One to one support from central press office and the External Affairs Manager in your region/country


How much time will you need to give?


This role is flexible. Your details will be kept on a database and you will be contacted as opportunities arise. Requests will often be short notice and to a very tight timescale but you can always turn down requests.


How will Alzheimer's Society support you?



• You will receive relevant induction for the role

• You will benefit from ongoing telephone support

• You will be provided with one to one and/or group based support

• You can become a member of our Campaigners' Network to keep you up-to-date on Society campaigns

• You will be reimbursed your agreed out of pocket expenses in accordance with Society policy.