BRITISH THYROID FOUNDATION (BTF) (Reg Charity No 1006391)

Role of BTF Local Support Group Coordinator (LC)

TASK DESCRIPTION

Introduction

BTF’s aim is to provide support and information in as many parts of the country as possible. In order to achieve this we welcome the input of volunteers who want to become involved and take on this important role.

Supporting meetings at which people with thyroid conditions, their families and medical staff can come together to exchange information and support, and share experiences is one of the BTF’s objectives. These meetings are organised by volunteers who coordinate local group activities. Many of our local coordinators have found their role to be a rewarding experience.

“Reading and learning about thyroid conditions made me realise that there were other people who may need help. I vowed that when I felt better I would offer tohelpothers. BTF gave me this opportunity after I initially undertook extensive training and providing me with the ongoing support that is needed in this important role.”

Wilma Beckett, Milton Keynes Local Coordinator

Who Can Set Up a Local Group?

Anyone can set up a group. If you are interested in setting up and coordinating a local group please fill out an application form and send to BTF Head Office:

If you would like to speak to another local coordinator to find out more about running a local group, please contact the BTF Head Office and we will put you in touch.

The role of the Local Support Group Coordinator is to:

  • represent the BTF and its aims and objectives
  • provide support and BTF information on the phone and at meetings to people with thyroid disorders and to their families
  • help to publicise the BTF locally via BTF posters
  • organise meetings for local BTF members, and members of the public
  • hold at least two meetings per year preferably with at least half of the meetings involving a thyroid specialist presentation
  • encourage membership of the BTF
  • inform medical professionals in the area about the group and its activities
  • not advocate information that conflicts with current medical evidence-based views
  • work collaboratively and positively with BTF Head Office
  • keep simple records and accounts
  • support other BTF local co-ordinators and telephone contacts
  • provide a good listening ear, understanding and a positive attitude to callers and at your meetings

Responsibilities

  • to share ideas, queries, concerns, or needs with the BTF
  • to respond to requests for information from the BTF
  • to keep the BTF updated with contact details for administration purposes, for the BTF Newsletter, and for the BTF website
  • keep a record of expenditure and receipts
  • log phone enquiries and keep BTF head office informed
  • not give out medical advice
  • maintain confidentiality

BTF’s role is to:

  • endeavour to identify hospital consultants or specialist nurses to support your meetings and your work
  • provide you with information and guidelines to help you to run your group
  • keep you updated with information to pass on to your group members and people who call you on the phone
  • help you to respond to queries
  • publicise your activities and meetings in our newsletter and on our website and assist with advice on advertising in your locality
  • provide you with support and tools to enable you to carry out your role
  • share “good practice” and information
  • help you with training opportunities
  • provide necessary stationery and equipment
  • meet pre-approved group-related expenses

A Local Group Coordinator

  • should be a member of BTF
  • should preferably have an email address
  • may apply to become a Telephone contact, by contacting the BTF Head Office
  • may step down at any time, by writing/emailing the BTF Head Office

Next Steps

We will take up references. When your reference has been accepted, we will email you a welcome pack containing the BTF Guidelines and other useful information including an agreement form for signature, and a membership form if necessary (you will need to be a BTF member, before taking on the role).

You are now ready to organise your first meeting.

April 2015