Sight Loss Information Volunteer Volunteer Roles
Essex Sight is passionate about improving the lives of blind and partially sighted people and we are now looking for additional trustees to strengthen our dynamic and committed board.
What will you be doing?
Essex Sight in the trading name of Essex Blind Charity. We have been operating across Essex since the 1920s and our purpose is to provide practical and emotional support and advice to enable blind and partially sighted people to enjoy a full and active life in the way they want to. Following the sale of our care home last year, we are now focussing on our community services. This includes: information, advice and guidance; assessment services; home visiting; and social activities, all with the aim of helping people to improve their independence and wellbeing.
We are in the fortunate position to be partly self-funding for the foreseeable future as we look to invest the funds from the sale of the care home in the continuation and development of our community services. We also operate under a contract for Essex County Council.
We are looking to appoint several new trustees to support our succession planning process and to bring additional skills to the board. We are keen to hear from people with a range of skills and experience but we are also looking for people with some of the following specific skills, knowledge or experience (we don't expect to final all these skills in one person):
1: Finance
2: Marketing and Digital
3: Service Delivery/Charity Management
4: Lived experience
Our trustees typically meet 10 times per year and generally serve a three year term with the option to extend for another term.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a range of skills and experience but, in particular, would benefit from experience in the following areas:
1: Finance - to bolster our ability to scrutinise, manage, report and make effective decisions based on our financial situation, including managing our investments. This person will develop good relationships with our management accountants, auditors/independent examiner and investment advisors.
2: Marketing and Digital – to help us build our reach and amplify our impact with the visually impaired community, volunteers and local and national networks including employers and other charities.
3: Service Delivery/Charity Management – to help us ensure that the services we develop and deliver are based on a good understanding of existing needs and services and are managed in the right way. This might include experience around charity management, volunteer management and/or safeguarding.
4: Lived experience - to ensure we build lived experience of vision impairment into all our work and reflect that experience in what we do.
What difference will you make?
You will need a real passion for our work and a high degree of personal integrity, playing a key role in developing the charity as we evolve and grow. You will have a chance to help improve the independence and wellbeing of blind and partially sighted people across Essex, the opportunity to use your existing skills and knowledge to make strategic decisions, and the opportunity to develop new skills.
It is estimated that there are more than 50,000 blind and partially sighted people living in Essex and our services can make a vital difference to people's ability to live the lives they want to lead. This is an exciting time to be part of our work as we look to develop and expand our existing community services. We are looking for candidates who share our values and can help us deliver our purpose.
Before you apply
Please apply through Reach in the first instance, attaching your CV with a supporting statement detailing why you would like to work with Essex Sight and what attracted you to the role. Candidates will then be invited to interview with some of our existing trustees.
Size: 6 - 10
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why do we need you?
• We need your help to assist visually impaired people to use their smart phones, tablets and laptops by adjusting accessibility settings, support with apps and how to use speech and voice feedback.
What activities will I be involved in?
• One to one, hour long appointments with service users
• Adjust accessibility settings and teach how to use speech and voice feedback
• Introduce Apps that can help users read documents or listen to audio books.
• Help to troubleshoot technical issues
• Explain the benefits of IT to those who are wary of, or intimidated by modern technology.
What skills and abilities will I need to have?
• A good understanding of using smart phones and tablets.
• Knowledge of Android, Apple or Microsoft operating systems
• Understanding of accessibility settings
• The ability to share your knowledge and skills in a constructive and supportive way
• To be flexible and a problem solver
• Patience and a good sense of humour helps
How much time should I offer?
• This role is flexible but we do look for a regular commitment.
• IT appointments are at our support centres at locations around Warwickshire.
• Rugby, Nuneaton , Coleshill, Atherstone and Bedworth
• Depending on the location sessions are weekly or monthly either 9:30am to 11:30pm or 2:30pm to 4:30pm
Is there an induction and training?
• You will receive an induction when you start
• We will provide any training you need to complete the role
What on-going support/guidance will there be?
• You will be supported by our IT4U team
• Opportunities to meet and network with staff and fellow volunteers during the year
Will I need my own transport?
• Access to your own vehicle would be an advantage.
What are the benefits to me?
• The opportunity of meeting new people and working as part of a dedicated team
• A great opportunity to learn new IT skills
• The satisfaction of knowing that you are making a vital difference to people living with sight loss
Will my expenses be paid?
• We pay volunteers “out-of-pocket” expenses in accordance with our guidelines.
Do I need to submit to a Disclosure and Barring Service check?
• As a volunteer working with vulnerable people you will need to undergo a DBS check in accordance with our policies
Areas :- Nuneaton, Coleshill, Bedworth, Atherstone, Rugby
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.
What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
Thank you!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.
What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.
What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.
What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Driver
Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?
Where?
Milton Keynes (Peartree Bridge and/or Stantonbury Fields)
What you will be doing?
Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.
What skills and experience are needed?
· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual
· Willingness to work independently
· Full Driver’s License
· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance
What will you gain from the role?
· A chance to make a difference
· Sense of purpose
· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing
· Working with people with sight loss
What support will be given?
· Induction
· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding
· Ongoing training and development opportunities
· Expenses
· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.
Criminal Record Check Information/DBS
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Driver
Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?
Where?
Marlow
What you will be doing?
Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.
What skills and experience are needed?
· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual
· Willingness to work independently
· Full Driver’s License
· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance
What will you gain from the role?
· A chance to make a difference
· Sense of purpose
· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing
· Working with people with sight loss
What support will be given?
· Induction
· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding
· Ongoing training and development opportunities
· Expenses
· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.
Criminal Record Check Information/DBS
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.
Thank you!
Driver
Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?
Where?
Princess Risborough
What you will be doing?
Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.
What skills and experience are needed?
· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual
· Willingness to work independently
· Full Driver’s License
· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance
What will you gain from the role?
· A chance to make a difference
· Sense of purpose
· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing
· Working with people with sight loss
What support will be given?
· Induction
· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding
· Ongoing training and development opportunities
· Expenses
· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.
Criminal Record Check Information/DBS
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Driver
Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?
Where?
Chesham
What you will be doing?
Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.
What skills and experience are needed?
· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual
· Willingness to work independently
· Full Driver’s License
· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance
What will you gain from the role?
· A chance to make a difference
· Sense of purpose
· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing
· Working with people with sight loss
What support will be given?
· Induction
· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding
· Ongoing training and development opportunities
· Expenses
· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.
Criminal Record Check Information/DBS
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.
Thank you!
Driver
Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?
Where?
Burnham Bowls Club
What you will be doing?
Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.
What skills and experience are needed?
· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual
· Willingness to work independently
· Full Driver’s License
· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance
What will you gain from the role?
· A chance to make a difference
· Sense of purpose
· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing
· Working with people with sight loss
What support will be given?
· Induction
· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding
· Ongoing training and development opportunities
· Expenses
· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.
Criminal Record Check Information/DBS
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
With over 14,000 people in the North East living with some form of sight loss, our amazing Community Volunteers play a key role in connecting blind and partially sighted people to each other, their community, and to wider internal and external services. RNIB attends events aimed at providing information and awareness. We need volunteers to help us continue this valuable work. Volunteers are needed to attend events with staff members, help set up equipment, give out leaflets and basic info to the public. Sighted volunteers may also be asked to guide visually impaired volunteers occasionally.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Driver – collecting and guiding people with sight loss from their homes and into our vision support centres and social clubs enabling the Visually impaired to meet and socialise in the following areas SOUTHAM
Expenses are paid at 45p per mile.
Enhanced DBS free of charge is needed
2 x references will be requested.
Copy of driving licence, MOT and insurance will be required.
Please email for application form.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to increase your admin or customer service skills? Then we have the perfect volunteering opportunity for you...
We are are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who want to support our members and join our friendly team of staff and volunteers. In this role, you will be assisting with the incoming calls coming into the National Helpline. Our members get in touch for a whole host of reasons - no day is the same! Some knowledge or experience of sight and or hearing loss would be an advantage in this particular role and confidence in speaking with people of all ages and backgrounds over the phone.
Duties would be varied ranging from dealing with basic incoming contact and referring any complex issues to our Membership Services team, updating our information library or carrying out research to support our work helping those with sight and hearing loss. You’ll receive full one to one training and gain a range of new skills and the confidence to use them. Although this is a remote role, there will always be a member of the team available to support you in your role.
We are looking for volunteers who would be available to support us in a slot between 10.00am – 12.00pm Mondays and Tuesdays.
Volunteering is a great way of improving you own skills and supporting others - why not join the team and make a difference to real people's lives......
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Keeping in regular contact with our members to check on their wellbeing is one of our key services.
Our Wellbeing Volunteers contact a range of different members every week to make a friendly 'check in' call and have a chat. During these calls, you'll provide the opportunity for our members to talk, offer friendly support and make them aware of the Deafblind UK services available to them.
Whatever the conversation you’ll be making a positive difference!
This is a home based role so you don't need to be 'local' and you don’t need experience to become one of our Wellbeing Volunteers. The majority of our members communicate with clear speech so no specialised skills or knowledge is required. You just need to be comfortable chatting over the phone and be able to commit to a regular weekly time slot to make calls to our members. Some knowledge or experience of sight and or hearing loss would be an advantage in this particular role and confidence in speaking with people of all ages and backgrounds.
We provide full training and ongoing support in this role and ask for a minimum commitment of three months.
We require you to have Wifi and access to a PC, tablet or mobile device. This is to allow you to complete training, have access to the Deafblind UK phone system and to submit online contact logs.
Volunteering with our charity is special because you get to hear first-hand the difference you make to people’s lives. Click on 'apply' and make a difference today!