Access and safety improvement volunteer volunteer roles

The Night Stars is a volunteer night-safety initiative run by Westminster City Council. The program aims to provide a welcoming place for all and collaborate to ensure that Westminster’s nightlife remains a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike. Volunteers are there to help anyone who finds themselves in a vulnerable situation, whether they need water, someone to talk to, or a safe place to sober up.  It is delivered across the West End, and focuses on areas such as Soho, Piccadilly, Leicester Square, and Embankment, and operates on Fridays from 19:00 pm to 04.00am. 

This is great opportunity for students to gain volunteer experience and key skills necessary for future success. We have many volunteers, and it is a wonderful way for them to make friends and new connections, as well as learn more about London's night-time economy.

The role is highly flexible, but your aim will be to:

• Act as an ambassador for the night-time economy and interact with visitors and local businesses to create a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Provide information, advice and practical support to visitors and vulnerable people
• Signpost people to support services if required.
• Be part of the wider strategic partnership in the area which is supporting and protecting visitors. In other words, interacting with emergency services such as the police, ambulance services, BIDS, and council enforcement staff, to ensure that Westminster remains safe.
• Look after those who are unable to keep themselves safe, and support them to get home without coming to harm

During patrols, volunteers may engage with:

• Intoxicated or Lost Individuals in need of assistance 
• Victims of Crime, such as theft and assault
• Individuals in Need of Emotional or Mental Health Support
• Venue Security and Emergency Services
• Council Enforcement Staff, such as City Inspectors or Anti-Social Behaviour Officers

Skills Required

• Empathy for the needs of vulnerable people.
• Excellent team player.
• Outgoing, friendly, and positive character.
• Good communication skills.
• Able to use your own initiative but able to ask for help when needed.
• Willing to work unsociable hours.

Training and support

• Alcohol and Drugs Awareness: Handling intoxication situations.
• Conflict Resolution: Managing aggression.
• Adult and Child Safeguarding: Ensuring safety and protection.
• Women’s Vulnerability Awareness: Intervening in vulnerable situations.
• Anti-Sexual Harassment: Preventing and addressing harassment.
• Communication: Effective interaction techniques.
• Emotional Support: Assisting distressed individuals.
• First Aid: Basic emergency medical skills.
• Equipment Use: Proper handling and operation.
• Counter Terrorism: Guidance on safety procedures.
• Employee Assistance: Access to the council's support services.

These trainings ensure that volunteers are well-prepared to handle various situations effectively and safely.

Benefits to volunteers

• The satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference to vulnerable people.
• Building self-confidence and the ability to work flexibly.
• Ability to undertake specific training and gain experience of supporting the vulnerable and conflict resolution.
• Opportunity to meet new people and learn more about London’s night-time economy.
• Working as part of the team and wider strategic partnership for the night-time economy.
• Offers great experience to anyone considering a career in the social sciences, health or social care, medicine, public engagement, crime prevention or a career that requires effective communication, dynamic problem solving, and teamwork.

As a Volunteer Speed Skate Coach, you will assist in delivering high-quality speed skating training for participants of all levels. Working under the guidance of the Head Coach, you'll have the opportunity to help athletes enhance their speed skating skills, fostering both competitive and recreational development. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist the Head Coach in delivering speed skating lessons and training sessions. 

• Support skaters in improving their speed, technique, and endurance. 

• Provide feedback and encouragement to skaters during practice. 

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants during sessions. 

• Set up and maintain equipment before and after each session. 

• Track participant progress and provide constructive feedback. 

• Assist in creating a positive, motivating atmosphere for participants. 

• Encourage good sportsmanship, teamwork, and a commitment to improvement. 

Skills & Qualifications 

• Passion for speed skating and developing athletes. 

• Previous experience in speed skating or coaching (desirable). 

• Good communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work with athletes of all skill levels. 

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. 

• First aid qualification (desirable). 

• Enthusiasm, patience, and a positive attitude. 

Commitment 

• Minimum 15 hours per week, with flexible hours. 

Benefits 

• Gain coaching experience and develop leadership skills. 

• Opportunity to work alongside experienced coaches. 

• Make a positive impact on the development of speed skaters. 

• Access to skating workshops and coaching development. 

• Be part of a supportive and energetic team. 

Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality Trustee - Focus Birmingham

Role Overview
Focus Birmingham is seeking a dedicated Trustee specialising in Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality to help drive the delivery of outstanding, person-centred care across our services. In this crucial role, you will work closely with the Board to ensure that the charity not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards, with a particular focus on compliance with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) framework. Your expertise will support the Board in overseeing the quality and safety of our services, championing continuous improvement and innovation.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the strategic direction of Focus Birmingham, ensuring the highest standards of care for people with disabilities and support needs.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and guidance on care quality, safety, and service effectiveness, ensuring that Focus Birmingham meets all CQC requirements.
• Support the organisation in achieving and maintaining high ratings in CQC inspections by contributing expertise in governance, compliance, and quality improvement.
• Scrutinise and challenge policies, procedures, and performance data to ensure the highest standards of care and safeguarding.
• Promote a person-centred approach, ensuring that the voices of the people who use our services are central to decision-making.
• Work with senior leadership and operational teams to identify risks and opportunities related to care delivery and service development.
• Oversee Focus Birmingham’s Safeguarding practices, ensuring robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, adhered to, and reviewed to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Support the development of a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in care services.
• Ensure the Board is well-informed about emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the health and social care sector.
• Act as an ambassador for Focus Birmingham, advocating for high-quality, inclusive, and accessible services for people with disabilities.

What Difference You Will Make
By bringing your expertise in care quality governance and regulatory compliance, you will:

• Help safeguard the well-being of those who rely on our services, ensuring they receive safe, high-quality care.
• Strengthen Focus Birmingham’s ability to meet and exceed CQC standards, leading to improved inspection ratings and public confidence.
• Influence strategic decision-making to ensure care quality remains at the heart of the organisation.
• Support our teams in embedding a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the voices of the people we support are heard, respected, and reflected in how we shape and deliver care.

What You Will Achieve
As a Trustee, you will contribute to:

• A robust governance framework that supports outstanding care provision.
• Improved service outcomes and positive experiences for individuals supported by Focus Birmingham.
• A confident, well-informed Board that prioritises care quality in strategic planning.
• A proactive approach to regulatory compliance, reducing risks, and enhancing our reputation.
• The growth and development of innovative, person-centred services that empower people with disabilities to live life to the fullest.

Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for an individual with expertise in health and social care governance, particularly in relation to CQC compliance, service quality, safeguarding, and person-centred care. Ideal candidates will have:

• Strategic-level experience working in or alongside CQC-regulated services such as social care, healthcare, or disability services.
• Knowledge of best practices in care quality, safeguarding, and risk management.
• A strong understanding of governance and supporting services.
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and strategic insight to ensure continuous improvement.
• A commitment to our values and mission, with a passion for empowering people with disabilities.
• A team player, willing to work collaboratively with other trustees and staff to achieve our strategic vision.
• The ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and develop creative solutions.
• Availability to attend Board meetings (4 per year), committee meetings (4 per year), other meetings, and engage with individuals with disabilities on an ongoing basis.
• A strong commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting their active participation in decision-making.
• The ability to understand and empathise with the diverse needs and perspectives of adults with care and support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for facilitating engagement and collaboration.

This is a voluntary role, but the impact you will make is invaluable. If you are passionate about driving excellence in care and safeguarding, we would love to hear from you.

To Apply
Please submit a complete application form via CharityJob.

Closing Date for Applications: 11th May 2025

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a new Trustee to our team!