Freedom of information requests volunteer roles

Research Volunteer [Norfolk]

Do you want to help identify the housing issues that shape our campaigns?

Information about the role

At Shelter Norfolk we’re building a coalition to secure long-term change. As a Research Volunteer, you’ll be a vital part of our work to achieve this. You’ll research important areas to help us learn more about the issues and the ways to fix them. Your research will contribute directly to our campaigning work to change housing in Norfolk. 

Location: Shelter Norfolk Hub, 50-52 Fishergate, Norwich

Suggested contribution: One day per week (can be flexible around your commitments)

Availability: Volunteering will take place at a time that suits you, within Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now or read on more for details.

Main activities may include:

· Supporting Shelter Norfolk’s project work by carrying out research and data collection.

· Using the internet to research relevant topics, for example, Landlord Licensing Schemes and Council Enforcement Schemes.

· Making Freedom of Information requests to Local Authorities.

· Gathering data on the experiences of people affected by homelessness and bad housing, for example via questionnaires or surveys.

· Compiling the data collected in an accessible format. 

· Providing updates of your findings to the relevant action groups at Shelter Norfolk

This role fights the housing emergency by identifying local issues, so we can make sure our campaigns are relevant to the changes that are needed in the local area.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.

Your skills and experience

We’re looking for someone who is interested in housing and homelessness and who has enthusiasm for improving the experience of renters in Norfolk. The volunteer in this role will need some basic IT skills, including using the internet and sending emails.

Supporting you

· You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook.

· The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

· You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

· You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders.

Next steps

Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further.

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions and complete a basic level Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information.