Helping Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Bipolar UK was originally formed in the 1980s as a local support system for the community by the community. Our first meeting was held in 1983 and since that day Bipolar UK has supported people living with the condition and their loved ones.  Our aim is to enable everyone affected by bipolar to live well.

Each year we support thousands of individuals through our range of peer support services, which include:

• Peer Support Groups (in-person and online)
• A call-back Peer Support Line
• Our eCommunity

In the years ahead, providing peer support services will remain central to everything we do. This vital work is only possible because of volunteers such as yourself.

How volunteers support us

We couldn’t exist without the amazing support of our dedicated team of volunteers. They help us by giving us key insights from our community. They also provide hands-on support so we can run a significant network of peer support groups and a one-to-one peer support line via telephone and email.

Thanks to the incredible collaboration between our staff team and our volunteers we currently empower approximately 1,000 people a month to stay well, and we have the ambition to reach thousands more.

Our commitment to volunteers:

We want you to get the most out of volunteering with us and we take our responsibility towards you very seriously.

 To support you, we will:

• Provide clear descriptions for our volunteering roles
• Treat volunteers fairly and in accordance with the Bipolar UK Equal Opportunities policy
• Ensure volunteers’ information is kept securely and in accordance with Bipolar UK Privacy policy, the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR
• Keep volunteers informed of relevant changes, including to policies and staff
• Provide appropriate training and support to encourage and develop volunteers in every role
• Work collaboratively with all our volunteers to improve the services we deliver, identifying training needs and providing additional learning
• Ensure our volunteering practices are compliant with current and relevant legislation
• Reimburse agreed out of pocket expenses in line with Bipolar UK’s policy and guidance
• Celebrate and recognise all our volunteers’ successes and ongoing contributions to the charity
• Support aspirations to upskill with relevant training and development

Training and development

All volunteers are given an induction and training relevant to their role before they begin volunteering so they can feel confident to carry out their tasks. Training is an ongoing commitment for both Bipolar UK staff and volunteers. Training sessions are usually held by the Bipolar UK team, although external training will be given whenever relevant and appropriate.

Who can volunteer?

As part of the volunteer recruitment process, we ask you to complete an application form. We will then invite you for an informal phone interview and ask you to provide two referees.

Roles within Bipolar UK are subject to an enhanced DBS check. The information gathered throughout this process helps us to make an informed decision about whether the volunteering role is right for you, as well as following our safeguarding procedures.

Skills and experience

We look for people who:

• Communicate well
• Enjoy teamwork
• Are able to adapt and willing to learn
• Are reliable, punctual and good at time management
• See situations with objectivity and compassion 
• All our volunteers must be 18 or older.

Bipolar UK will make sure that people are judged on their ability and potential, not on their background and situation. We will seek to treat people fairly, regardless of visible and non-visible differences such as mental health, health, gender, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religious beliefs or practices, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability, age, family/marital status, social background, pregnancy or potential pregnancy, caring responsibilities, spent criminal convictions or trade union affiliation.

We appreciate that these differences will contribute to diverse experiences of life, attitudes, values, and ways of thinking and communicating - and that these different perspectives can make a valuable contribution to our work.

What we ask of volunteers:

We ask that all volunteers commit to a minimum of two to four hours a week for our phone/email service or up to 4 hours per month for our support groups, for at least six months wherever possible.

We expect all volunteers to attend regular training as part of role development and progression, and to abide by our policies and guidelines. A commitment to our mission and values is imperative, along with a desire to make a difference to those affected by bipolar.  All volunteers represent the charity and must always remain professional when interacting with the public and external services.

Volunteers should:

• Have personal experience of bipolar if the role requires it
• Display empathy and understanding of the needs of others
• Understand and remain conscious of their own needs, including managing their own wellbeing
• Communicate effectively with the team
• Be always respectful of others, in line with Bipolar UK policies
• Have basic IT skills and computer literacy 

Our volunteering roles:

• Support Group Co-facilitator (online)
• Support Group Co-facilitator (in-person)
• Support Group Administrator
• Peer Support Line Volunteer
• Media Ambassador
• Fundraising Assistant
• Events Assistant

About the project: 

The Helpdesk Project is a unique initiative where trained volunteers offer information on local services and peer support to people attending MS clinics at the Walton Centre in Liverpool.

More than 130,000 people live with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the UK. Every one of them shares the uncertainty of life with MS.

People are most likely to find out they have MS in their thirties, forties and fifties; news that can be worrying and heartbreaking. Having somebody who has local knowledge and can signpost to information and services can provide vital support to people at the start of their MS journey.

About the role:

Do you have good organisational and communication skills?

We are looking for a volunteer who could help with supporting people with MS at the support desk. Please see the Role Description for more details about the tasks you may be involved in.

Time and Commitment

This role will take place at the Walton Centre Hospital.

We are looking for volunteers who can offer two or three hours a week, where you would attend the hospital help desk.

There will also be quarterly volunteer support sessions you will be asked to attend.

Training and support:

You’ll receive role-specific training and support from the MS Support Team and the Regional Development Officer.

About the project: 

The Helpdesk Project is a unique initiative where trained volunteers offer information on local services and peer support to people attending MS clinics at the Walton Centre in Liverpool.

More than 130,000 people live with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the UK. Every one of them shares the uncertainty of life with MS.

People are most likely to find out they have MS in their thirties, forties and fifties; news that can be worrying and heartbreaking. Having somebody who has local knowledge and can signpost to information and services can provide vital support to people at the start of their MS journey.

About the role:

Do you have good organisational and communication skills?

We are looking for a volunteer who could help with recruiting and supporting other volunteers within the project. Please see the Role Description for more details about the tasks you may be involved in.

Time and Commitment

We are looking for volunteers who can offer two or three hours a week.

This role can be carried out at home and we would also like you to attend the hospital help desk on an occasional basis 

There will also be quarterly volunteer support sessions you will be asked to attend.

Training and support:

You’ll receive role-specific training and support from the MS Support Team and the Regional Development Officer.

Are you looking to volunteer in a small and friendly office team? We're looking for someone to help us with our membership admin, including assembling membership packs, preparing resources for mailings, helping us prepare for membership events and lots more - no admin day will be the same and there is always plenty of tea and coffee on tap and biscuits available!

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is one the region’s largest and oldest charities managing over 100 nature reserves and works with many other land managers assisting them to improve wildlife. The Trust works to involve people in nature conservation through events, environmental education and community involvement.

The supporter services team is part of the Fundraising and Engagement Directorate which includes the Membership, Events, Communications and Fundraising team.  As part of their work, the Supporter Services team process all new membership and are looking for a volunteer to help pack our mailing of welcome packs and other post.  Ideally our volunteer will also help keep both our literature and events storeroom tidy.

What you'll be supporting us with:

• Assembling membership welcome packs for new Yorkshire Wildlife Trust members
• Packing membership packs ready for the Friday mailing
• Putting together other regular mailings to new and existing members
• Filing of confidential information
• Keeping the storeroom tidy and in order.
• Discarding any out-of-date literature.
• Putting away stock after events.
• Informing staff of low supplies.
• Help gather equipment for events.
• Help take in deliveries.
• Helping with other tasks as required.

What's in it for you?

This is a great opportunity to volunteer for a successful wildlife and environmental charity with a friendly team.  Our team is very busy and we greatly value the help of our volunteers.  Hot drinks and biscuits are always available!

At Watford & Three Rivers Refugee Partnership, our objective is to provide practical and emotional support, ultimately helping our clients achieve a sustainable position as full members of our society. Many of our clients are destitute, homeless and have no access to assistance from the government. Our mission is to provide access to advice and essential services until statutory services are in place.

Volunteering at the Drop-In centre provides an opportunity for you to help our refugee clients with any issues they might have. We have sessions running every Tuesday between 11am and 1pm at St Mary’s Church, High Street, Watford. The Drop-In provides an opportunity for refugee clients to come and discuss any issues they have and to be listened to by one of our volunteers. Many of our clients are likely to have lived here for a while but an issue or crisis in their lives means that they need to discuss it and seek some help. They may also be in the process of seeking asylum. We can provide advice and sometimes resolve their issue there and then and at other times we refer them to another agency or invite them to come back once their issue has been looked into.

The Drop-In Centre could not function without our team of committed volunteers, and we are always looking for additional help.

Full training given on starting the role as well as regular training sessions and continual support from more experienced volunteers.

Responsibilities:

· Help with filling in forms and interpreting official documents.

· Liaising with statutory and voluntary agencies.

· Referring clients for follow up action by our Case Review Team and linking them with a befriender.

· Referring clients to our partner solicitor who specialises in immigration law and comes to the Drop-In 4th Tuesday of the month.

· Advice on how to access appropriate housing and free food in the area.

· Access to the charity’s other services, such as free English classes.

Requirements:

· Able to attend at least one Tuesday Drop-In a month.

· Complete training as required and attend bi-monthly volunteer support meetings.

Skills:

· An ability to communicate and empathise with people from a variety of backgrounds and needs.

· Basic IT skills.

· Assist clients in accessing essential services such as legal, housing, financial and food.

· Can work well as part of a team.

· Enthusiasm to help refugee clients.

Desirable experience: 

· Previous volunteering experience.

· Previous experience working in a people-facing role.

If you are interested in becoming a Drop-In volunteer please apply via Charity Jobs or contact us and a volunteer coordinator will contact you to discuss this further.

Our Enfield team is looking for reliable and enthusiastic volunteers to help support children in our refuges.

About the role

Solace’s refuges provide safe accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic abuse. Volunteer CYP Playworkers will lead and assist a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, games, etc. to engage and support the children’s emotional wellbeing and enhance their confidence and resilience. Activity sessions will be carried out in the refuges, supported by the Sessional Play worker.

Who are we looking for?

The ideal volunteer will:

• Have direct experience of working with children and young people is desirable.
• Be reliable and committed to promoting the enjoyment and wellbeing of children and young people.
• Be understanding of domestic violence issues and a discretion in handling confidential and/or sensitive information.
• Be approachable and empathetic
• Be non-judgemental.
• Have the ability to maintain confidentiality.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

As part of this role you will have the opportunity to:

• Gain experience and understanding of working with children using a trauma-informed approach.
• Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
• Gain hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Work as part of a feminist organisation.

We offer great volunteer induction training, where you will be fully supported to understand, and carry put every aspect of the role. Training includes CPD accredited courses, and the opportunity to apply to complete the level 3 Understanding Domestic Abuse Award (DAPA), which is recognized by the Home Office.

Solace Women’s Aid values diversity promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applicants from black minority and ethnic communities.

This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, and Part 1. Section 7(2) e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 apply. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

As part of safer recruitment, we require all successful candidates will be required to complete a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) disclosure.

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation into STEM? If so, we'd love for you to volunteer with us at the UK's BIGGEST STEM event for young people! We're looking for volunteers for 1, 2 or 3 days to get involved at The Big Bang Fair 2024. So wheather you're an apprentice, student, graduate, career starter, a professional with years of experience or retired, this could be the opportunity you're looking for!

What's in it for you?

• A fun and rewarding opportunity to make a difference in young people's lives
• A chance to build your personal development and network

The Fair takes place from 19 to 21 June at the NEC in Birmingham. A day runs from 8am to 4pm and lunch will be provided. 

No experience necessary and full training will be given.

We want young people to see themselves represented in the volunteers who work with us, so we actively encourage volunteers from groups who are currently underrepresented in the engineering and technology professions.

Amazing, giving, inspiring and awesome are just a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

We are looking for Peer Group Facilitators (Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities) to support our Community Services in Bristol.

You will be based at St Pauls and, ideally will be able to commit one and a half hours per week to volunteering (14:30 to 16:00 on Wednesday's)

This role is dedicated to providing a safe space for people to discuss the impact of racism. You will be allowing the participants to lead the group and discuss change that could come about through different organisations - for example, how can organisations (mental health organisations/charities) change things to better support people.

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service

Our service is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness. The Bristol Services team includes a Service Manager, Recovery Coaches, a Digital Officer, a Group Development Coordinator, a Community Development Worker and a Peer and Volunteer Coordinator.

What you will be doing as a Peer Group Facilitator

• Engaging with group members
• Keeping the group focused
• Welcoming people into the space
• Facilitating the space and allowing participants to lead

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• Being non-judgmental and open minded
• Passionate about tackling racism
• Understanding the importance of confidentiality
• Being able to empathise

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”

We welcome applications from everyone, applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning+ (LGBTQ+), people with a disability, or those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds are actively encouraged to apply. We are proud to have also been awarded Disability Confident employer status. We have an ambition of becoming an anti-racist organisation and we recognise there is more to do in ensuring our recruitment is fair and inclusive, which is why we are recruiting new roles in helping us to achieve this.

Amazing, giving, inspiring and awesome are just a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

We are looking for Peer Support Volunteers to support our East Kent Peer Support service. You will be based at Ashford and, ideally, you will be able to commit 3 hours per week to volunteering.

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service and role

The East Kent Peer Support Service currently run group sessions for service users in Ashford, Dover and Folkestone.

The role of the Peer Support Volunteer is to provide additional support at our Peer Support group sessions.  This could be, for example, by empathising with potential clients about the difficulties that having a mental health problem can create, helping to set up the room, explaining the services that are on offer and how these can be accessed, putting people who are anxious at ease by welcoming them.

Our team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve their recovery goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness. The team will engage with other local providers to ensure a clear and seamless pathway for those that require support from multiple providers.

What you will be doing as a Peer Support Volunteer

Peer Volunteering is an opportunity for people who have themselves used mental health services, to volunteer and support other people currently using mental health services. 

As a Peer Volunteer you will have lived experience of mental health and support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved. You will bring added skills and experience to our service and add real value to our team.

You will support the following people and teams:

• Potential clients
• Rethink Peer Support Workers
• Volunteers
• Members of the public
• Visitors and other organisations

The role will include the following:

• Support the Peer Support Workers to run the group sessions e.g. by helping to set up the room and by welcoming people
• Help to create a safe space where people can share as much or as little as they wish to about their experiences
• Foster the principles of co-production
• Work with other volunteers who support the service
• Signpost people to services in the local area that meets their needs
• Describe and explain services that are on offer from Rethink Mental Illness and other local community assets that can provide help and advice relevant to people's needs

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• As a Peer Volunteer you will have lived experience of mental health
• Able to support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved.
• You will bring added skills and experience to our service and add real value to our team.
• Ability to empathise with others
• Good communication skills
• Reliable and punctual

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”

About Us
oin us in making a meaningful impact! East Sussex Hearing, an independent countywide charity based in Eastbourne, has dedicated over two decades to serving the deaf and hard of hearing community across East Sussex. Our mission is to empower individuals with advice and practical support, enabling them to lead vibrant, active lives and be integral members of their community.

The heart of our efforts lies in the events we organise, acting as lifelines to generate crucial income. This income supports and enhances the services we provide for the benefit of the hard of hearing and deaf community. Now, we are on the lookout for a passionate Event Volunteer to join our cause on a voluntary basis

What you'll be doing
As an Event Volunteer, your role is diverse and impactful. From setting up our Gazebo and displaying banners to selling merchandise and collecting donations at events, your contribution makes a significant difference. Picture yourself engaging with the locals in Eastbourne town centre, sharing information about our upcoming events, or manning stalls at community gatherings like the Festival of Transport, an annual weekend event near Hailsham. You could be handing out flyers, offering advice, or simply fostering conversations about our invaluable services.

Our events are scattered throughout the year across East Sussex, with exciting plans for more in 2024! Whether you can commit to helping with one or two events annually or wish to make a more regular commitment. If you are seeking
a hands-on role that lets you support East Sussex Hearing while having a good time, helping at our events is the perfect opportunity! Let's make a difference together, as were ‘Here to Help You Hear.’

Specific Tasks & Responsibilities
• Meet and greet members of the public
• Support the setting up and taking down stalls at events which may include gazebos
• Hand out event flyers at specific locations
• Act as a Charity ambassador by promoting the event among your friends, family and colleagues
• Distribute event materials such as leaflets in your local area
• Provide general hearing loss information and advice, including signposting to other services

What will you gain from volunteering with us
• A chance to meet new people, make new friends
• Develop new skills, take on new challenges and enjoy new experiences
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to East Sussex Hearing and support the deaf and hard of hearing community
• Travel expenses can be claimed
• FREE admission to our BSL Sign Language classes
• FREE admission to our Lipreading classes
• Access to exclusive discounts, cashback & vouchers for charity workers & volunteers.

What we are looking for
• You're friendly, welcoming and enjoy being part of events
• You enjoy engaging with people and being part of a team
• You’re flexible and willing to take on a variety of tasks

Training & Support
East Sussex Hearing will provide all relevant training at their Eastbourne centre, and locally.

To apply for this role, you need to be over the age of 16. 

About the program

Our summer camp program is a comprehensive initiative that is designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for children between the ages of 4 to 16 during school breaks.Kasoa is a market community and most of the women and men work as hawkers, shop attenders, petty traders etc which makes them leave home very early in the morning leaving their children to roam about the neighborhood and street.  This is a non residential camp for the children but residential for volunteers.

 The program focuses on preventing child delinquency by offering various fun and educational activities that keep children occupied and engaged.   Our camp offers a variety of activities such as outdoor games, sports, arts and crafts, music, drama, reading, storytelling, French, and other recreational activities that help children develop social skills, improve their self-confidence, and foster positive relationships with others. 

During summer breaks, schools and various institutions organize vacations or summer schools. However, the high cost of attending these programs often makes it impossible for children from poor homes to participate. Consequently, these children end up roaming the streets and engaging in various social vices. The program takes place within the community where children from the slums, streets and poor backgrounds are brought together and taken through indoor and outdoor games and activities.

Our Summer camp is a call to action to provide an opportunity for children to be productive during the school break. The program starts from July through to end of August 2024 every year and volunteers can participate any date within the summer period. Volunteers are allowed to develop and introduce their own indoor and outdoor games. Volunteers who have special activities they want to introduce may want to bring the tools and items they may use since we may not have them. Volunteers are encouraged to come along with some crafts, paper, colors, pencils, paints, etc.

We are looking for volunteers dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in their care. Our summer camp is the perfect place for children to learn, grow, and have fun during their school breaks whilst volunteers also learn the local culture, make new friends, touch lives, and make meaningful contributions to the lives.

What You Can Bring

 Volunteers can bring materials like paints, pencils and pencil colors, crayons, drawing papers, toys, etc. Some of these materials can also be found in the local market for ready purchase. Most importantly you bring a big heart and smile.

What we expect from you

You must be passionate about children and ability to work with children from all kinds of backgrounds and with specific needs and attention.

What you can expect from us

Our staff is available to you 24/7 to give any necessary support. We will assign one staff to take care of your needs.

Who You will Work with

Volunteers work closely with our staff and other volunteers. Volunteers are paired with other volunteers if any to work on similar activities.

How Do I Get to the placement?

For the first day, volunteers will be taken to the center. Our staff will show volunteers how to get to the center, the direction to take, the particular vehicle if any, and the amount to pay for the transportation. This is repeated the next day if the volunteer thinks he still can't make it until the volunteer can make his/her way. The same is done for the return to the homestay from the placement center.

A Wellbeing Buddy is a volunteer who is matched with someone who has been referred to us for support for a period of 12 weeks and volunteers with them in person.

Face-to-face Wellbeing Buddies meet their match each week with an overall aim of helping them to build confidence and improve their quality of life. This might involve going for walks with the person, going on public transport with them, assisting them with food shopping or just offering some company in their normal routine.

The time you give to volunteering can be decided by you, as long as you can commit to at least once a week for 12 weeks with one person.

Please note that at the moment, to become a volunteer with us you will need to have some availability during the working week (9-5 Monday-Friday). Wellbeing Volunteers are not able to do this role during evenings and weekends. This is so that there are staff members available for support. 

What do you need to become a Wellbeing Buddy?

You don't necessarily need to have experience in a role like this, but any experience in offering objective support to people would be beneficial. We are mainly looking for kind-hearted, personable, reliable individuals who love to chat and can give a small amount of time each week to help someone who needs it. You will be given training and support from the volunteer coordinator whenever needed.

To volunteer, you must:

- Be over the age of 18
- Be able to travel within your local area, whether by public transport, Beryl bike or driving
- Have access to the internet to use our volunteer database
- Undergo a DBS check (free to you)
- Complete the necessary training

What do you get out of it? 

Volunteering with us will give you a chance to develop your skills and experience in empathy and active listening, as well as supporting and safeguarding people. We can offer you a rewarding opportunity to help empower people to live their best possible lives, a way of meeting other volunteers and likeminded people and social events for volunteers. We also offer reimbursement for expenses, access to schemes such as free Beryl Bike minutes and opportunities to attend personalised and tailored training and workshops.

How to join us:

To become a Wellbeing Buddy you will need to complete the application form attached to this opportunity (you can also find this on our website). You will then be invited to a an informal meeting with the volunteer coordinator (in person or online). If successful, you will need to attend a short training session at Beech House in Poole. This opportunity requires you to undergo a DBS check (free of charge to you).

Amazing, giving, inspiring and awesome are just a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

We are looking for a Criminal Justice Volunteer (BME) to support our Bristol Community Service in Bristol. You will be based at St Pauls and, ideally, you will be able to commit one and a half hours per week to volunteering (14:30 to 16:00 on Tuesday's)

This group is a female only Black, Asian and minority ethnic criminal justice group aimed at women who have had experiences of racism in the criminal justice system. You will be facilitating the group and allowing the members to lead the conversation and speak about their experiences. Through facilitating the group, it is your responsibility to keep the conversation focused. You will also help the group to discuss changes that the members may want to see within the criminal justice system, and how this change can be implemented. Within this role, confidentiality is extremely important so you will be expected to share this value with the group.

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service

Our service team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness. The Bristol Services team includes a Service Manager, Recovery Coaches, a Digital Officer, a Group Development Coordinator, a Community Development Worker and a Peer and Volunteer Coordinator.

What you will be doing as a Volunteer Group Facilitator Criminal Justice

· Keeping the group focused

· Remaining non-judgmental

· Comfortable engaging with women, provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity

· Due to the nature of the group, you must identify as female to volunteer for this role

· Helping to set up the space and welcome people in

· Understand the importance of confidentiality

What will make you a great fit for this role?

· Passionate about the criminal justice system

· Passionate around tackling racism and inequality

· Experience of working in/facilitating a group

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”

We welcome applications from everyone, applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning+ (LGBTQ+), people with a disability, or those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds are actively encouraged to apply. We are proud to have also been awarded Disability Confident employer status. We have an ambition of becoming an anti-racist organisation and we recognise there is more to do in ensuring our recruitment is fair and inclusive, which is why we are recruiting new roles in helping us 

Role title: Peer Navigator Volunteer X 40 posts

Responsible to: Lived Experience and Community Development Manager

Hours: Available 4 - 15 hours per week (flexible)

Team: The Peer Pathway – The City and Hackney Wellbeing Network

Location: Remote working / 8-10 Tudor Road / 15a Homerton Row options available

We are looking for a volunteer with lived experience of Mental health to use their valuable insights to support other. This role aligns with the visions of Mind CHWF, The Wellbeing Network and Peer Pathway.

You will contact residents who have made a referral to the Wellbeing Network but are not eligible for our core service. This means that more people seeking support will be contacted, leaving less people facing their challenges alone. There will be a focus on supporting people most underserved by mainstream mental health services, including BAPOC & LGBTQ+ people. 

About Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest:

We are a multi-disciplinary provider of specialist mental health services and a part of the Mind Federation.

We promote both recovery from ill health for people with recurrent and enduring mental health difficulties and early intervention for those at risk of developing mental health issues, or who struggle with common mental health conditions.

We currently support around 5,000 people a year through a variety of services focusing on psychological, social, economic and workplace wellbeing, and support minoritised communities.

Our values are:

Connected: Creating a compassionate and supportive community.

Fair:  We strive for equity- no-one's needs should go unmet.

Brave: We walk with people, offering help by doing what works - proven or new

Working with Mind CHWF means you’ll be part of a dedicated, passionate, and professional workforce who cares about the work they do and make a real difference to the lives of the people in the City of London, Hackney, and Waltham Forest.

We are committed to actively becoming anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind CHWF. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation that recognises different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services.

We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Those with lived experience of Mental Health are encouraged to apply.

Value-based Recruitment:

We know that for various reasons, not everybody who can successfully perform in a role, performs their best under traditional interview/selection procedures. We are therefore seeking ways to breakdown further barriers in our recruitment & selection process.

Shorted-listed candidates will be provided with some questions to help them prepare for the interview.

How to apply:

For more information on the vacancy and how to apply, click the ‘Apply’ button - Please note that we are unable to consider incomplete applications.

The closing date is by 24 May 2024, however, please do not delay applying as this advert may close before the stated deadline if we find a suitable applicant for the role.

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