Activities and volunteer coordinator volunteer roles

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Hereford and surrounding areas to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:  'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Prison-based volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work (FCW). Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.

Prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as providing groups information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills will vary from prison to prison.

Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work requires ideally a good level of needlework skill (or a willingness to learn), some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively. As a prison volunteer you will:

• Developing skills and confidence
• Teach prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects
• Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects

It is essential for volunteers to support FCW ethos, believe in rehabilitation, be an excellent teamworker, observe personal boundaries, be reliable and patient to ensure cell groups run smoothly, and have record-keeping skills and have at knowledge of tapestry/needlework. . 

Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependant on where groups are based, therefore it is requred that volunteers will be able to travel to the relevant prisons. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity. 

Please take some time to read the role description to find put more details about the role and what we offer to our volunteers. 

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in FCW’s workforce.

These include applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+, and male identifying applicants as these are currently under-represented in our volunteers groups.

Are you passionate about supporting people impacted by substance misuse and involved in the criminal justice system? Join our specialist service dedicated to helping individuals on probation make positive changes in their lives.

As a Dependency & Recovery Support Volunteer, you’ll work closely with our Dependency and Recovery Coordinators and partner agencies based at Redditch Probation office to deliver tailored support to adult males on probation. Your role will include:

• Assisting with drug and alcohol interventions
• Encouraging motivation and goal-setting
• Supporting individuals to reduce substance misuse and offending behaviour

What we’re looking for:

• Empathy and understanding of the issues faced by those in recovery and the criminal justice system
• A commitment to supporting positive change
• Reliability and a non-judgmental attitude

What we offer:

• Comprehensive training (some via eLearning – laptop access required)
• Valuable experience in a supportive environment
• Ongoing guidance and support
• A chance to make a meaningful impact in your community

If you're ready to be part of something impactful, we’d love to hear from you!

Important Information:

• This volunteer role is based at Redditch Probation office on Mondays or Tuesdays  10 - 2pm
• This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and HMPPS Enhanced Level 1 vetting
• Please ensure you complete the Personal Statement section of the application – it’s essential for shortlisting

 For full details, please read the attached role description.

Prison-based volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work (FCW). Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.

Prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as providing groups information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills will vary from prison to prison.

Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work requires ideally a good level of needlework skill (or a willingness to learn), some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively. As a prison volunteer you will:

• Developing skills and confidence
• Teach prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects
• Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects

It is essential for volunteers to support FCW ethos, believe in rehabilitation, be an excellent teamworker, observe personal boundaries, be reliable and patient to ensure cell groups run smoothly, and have record-keeping skills and have at knowledge of tapestry/needlework. . 

Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependant on where groups are based, therefore it is requred that volunteers will be able to travel to the relevant prisons. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity. 

Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our volunteers.

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in FCW’s workforce.

These include applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+, and male identifying applicants as these are currently under-represented in our volunteers groups.

Why we need your help

We provide free games and activity sessions with tailored support for children with additional needs and disabilities. We support over 100 children, known as our ‘athletes’, with a wide range of additional needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, non-visible disabilities, and global development delay. At KEEN London, we strive to use fun and games to improve young people's wellbeing, and personal, social and emotional development as well as broadening experiences to increase skills and confidence.

Purpose of the role

Our Volunteer Coaches are the backbone of a KEEN London session! You’ll provide one-to-one support to an athlete, helping them to access all the activities on offer, achieve their personal development goals, and of course have tons of fun! You can expect to get involved with a wide range of playground games, ball games, nature walks, and creative activities. From time to time, we also run trips for our athletes, and previous trips have included trampoline parks, high ropes courses, pedalo boating and slime-making classes.

Tasks and activities

● You’ll support our athletes to engage with the session, and have fun while they’re doing it.

● You’ll help our Service Coordinators develop goals for our athletes, track their progress, and give them lots of encouragement along the way.

● You’ll work with your Service Coordinators and fellow Coaches to come up with new games, develop resources, and plan activities.

● We want our athletes to enjoy being active, making friends, and trying new things - and we want you to join in the activities with them!

● Our athletes love working with energetic and enthusiastic people, and we’ll ensure that all your hard work will be rewarded with a great time.

Please note: To ensure that you are equipped and ready to take on this role, there is a thorough application process which includes but is not limited to: an information session, an in-person onboarding training evening, an enhanced DBS check, reference checks and a safeguarding quiz. All elements of the onboarding process have to be completed satisfactorily before you can start volunteering in this role. 

Why Volunteer with KEEN London?

KEEN London would not be what it is without the volunteers who support our work, and we want to ensure that all our volunteers gain just as much from their volunteering journey as they put into the charity. Here’s what you’ll get in return for supporting us:

● Regular volunteer social events, and opportunities to meet other coaches

● We will provide you with ongoing feedback and support to enable you to reach your full potential at KEEN, you will receive an induction and handbook prior to starting your role and you will receive access to a virtual training portal with additional resources.

● We will give you opportunities to access other roles to help you broaden your skills, such as becoming a Captain or Session Leader.

● Long-term volunteers receive t-shirts, badges, and advance sign-ups to our popular events

● We have a budget set aside to cover volunteer expenses (see Volunteer Agreement below)

● We will provide job/character references to volunteers after a reasonable period of volunteering with us.

Volunteer Agreement

All KEEN London volunteers are asked to observe the Volunteer Agreement. This agreement is binding in honour only, is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. Neither of us intends any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.

As a volunteer with KEEN London, you can expect:

● To be a part of a unique and evolving charity that is providing a valuable service to children and young people with additional needs.

● To be introduced to how the organisation works and your role within it.

● A supportive and reciprocal environment that ensures a positive experience for you as a volunteer.

● To be invited to volunteer at special events and fundraising activities.

● Reimbursement of any reasonable travel expenses.

● To be treated fairly and equally with dignity and respect, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, age, (dis)ability, religion or sexual orientation.

● A safe and healthy environment for you to volunteer in.

● Any problems or complaints to be investigated quickly and resolved fairly.

● Recognition for your efforts and successes – celebrating achievements and rewarding loyalty and dedication.

● To receive, if required, a reference after a reasonable time of volunteering.

● Access to free Charity Worker Discounts.

Our expectations of volunteers:

● To maintain and uphold the reputation and good name of the charity.

● To treat other volunteers, staff and service users fairly and with dignity, and to respect everyone equally, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, age, (dis)ability, religion or sexual orientation.

● To ensure appropriate levels of confidentiality and data protection are upheld.

● To uphold our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy. This includes ensuring that when out of sight of other adults a ratio of 2 adults to 1 athlete is in place, and that you report any concerns you have about the safety and wellbeing of athletes to the Coordinator as soon as possible.

● To adhere to all health and safety instructions.

● To be punctual and reliable when attending sessions, and inform the coordinator via phone call as soon as possible if you are unable to attend.

● To attend at least 2 sessions per month for at least 6 months.

● To bring energy, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn to all sessions.

Role Description Internal Ref Number: COACH4

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Swindon to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Coleford to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Are you passionate about supporting people impacted by substance misuse and involved in the criminal justice system? Join our specialist service dedicated to helping individuals on probation make positive changes in their lives.

As a Dependency & Recovery Support Volunteer, you’ll work closely with our Dependency and Recovery Coordinators and partner agencies based at Kitts Green probation office to deliver tailored support to adult males on probation. Your role will include:

• Assisting with drug and alcohol interventions
• Encouraging motivation and goal-setting
• Supporting individuals to reduce substance misuse and offending behaviour

What we’re looking for:

• Empathy and understanding of the issues faced by those in recovery and the criminal justice system
• A commitment to supporting positive change
• Reliability and a non-judgmental attitude

What we offer:

• Comprehensive training (some via eLearning – laptop access required)
• Valuable experience in a supportive environment
• Ongoing guidance and support
• A chance to make a meaningful impact in your community

If you're ready to be part of something impactful, we’d love to hear from you!

Important Information:

• This volunteer role is based at Kitts Green Probation office on Tuesdays afternoon or all day Wednesday 
• This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and HMPPS Enhanced Level 1 vetting
• Please ensure you complete the Personal Statement section of the application – it’s essential for shortlisting

 For full details, please read the attached role description.

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Whitchurch to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

As a Community Network Volunteer, you will organise and facilitate meetings and events for a group of families so that they can get to know one another and build a supportive community. This could be anything from arranging informal meetups in the local park to organising online or face to face meetings, to setting up local events. The group would be able to share knowledge and experience amongst one another and just be there for one another.

Knowledge and experience required

• Enthusiasm and some time to spare! 

• Personal experience, and understanding of the issues facing adoptive parents 

• Good listening and communication skills

• Ability to respect other people’s differences and choices 

• Some IT and administration skills  

Benefits of volunteering with Adoption UK

• Meet new people and be part of helping adoptive families to thrive 

• Flexibility to volunteer in a way that suits your family and commitments                             

• Be supported in your own family’s journey both in your group and as part of a UK wide adoption organisation 

• Access to the online family members area and the opportunity to attend relevant training and development opportunities 

• Use and develop your communication, organisational and people skills 

• Receive an induction, relevant training, the support you need to carry out the role and agreed out-of-pocket expenses 

Are you passionate about the work that BCWA does and want to be a positive representative in your community?  Are you keen to make a difference and contribute to the impact our fundraising team makes?

We’re looking for friendly and welcoming volunteers to join us, who are enthusiastic and excited to help our clients and supporters. Whether you’re a confident communicator who wants to engage with your local community or a reliable and honest volunteer looking to help us sort our donations, we’d love to have you on board as a Fundraising Volunteer!

Fundraising Volunteers will volunteer within the BCWA Fundraising Team, assisting with their day-to-day activity, whether that’s helping sort our valuable donations, tidying and keeping our donation cupboards clean, supporting the team with tasks or helping with collections in the community.  Fundraising at BCWA can be a busy, high-pressure environment – our volunteers are integral at our busiest times of the year to ensure our clients and services get the support they need.

Volunteering with our Fundraising Team might look like:

• Supporting with processing donations – including moving and handling and carrying a variety of items.
• Helping keep our storage areas for donations clean and tidy.
• Getting involved with your local community and coming up with creative new ideas for fundraising drives.
• Assisting with collections if you are comfortable and have a valid UK Driving License.
• Being an advocate for BCWA!

To keep everyone informed, supported, and working towards shared goals, all fundraising volunteers are invited to join our quarterly team meeting. These sessions will:

• Share upcoming events and new fundraising opportunities
• Give updates on current projects and campaign progress
• Offer a clear focus for the months ahead
• Provide space for volunteers to share ideas, feedback, and experiences
• Strengthen team connection and celebrate achievements

You’ll always know what we’re aiming for and how your contribution fits into the bigger picture.

As a BCWA Fundraising Volunteer, you’ll get:

• All the training you need to understand and be prepared for your role with us, so you can use your time with us to grow and learn!
• Regular check-ins and contact with our Volunteer Coordinator as an opportunity to catch up, reflect and feedback on your volunteering experience with us.
• Access to the Wisdom App and the BCWA wellbeing provision.
• Access high quality support and advice from BCWA whenever you need it.
• Your travel to and from sessions expensed.
• A reference to support you in your next steps, whether that is a voluntary or paid role elsewhere.
• The knowledge that you’re making a real difference to the lives of victims and survivors of violence and abuse as you volunteer alongside a team of passionate and experienced fundraisers!

Important information for all positions

Black Country Women’s Aid is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

All posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. It will be necessary for an enhanced disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service for details of any previous criminal convictions.

Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies. The post holder must be female.

Volunteering checks

As a responsible volunteer provider we adhere to safer recruitment practice and all our volunteers are subject to the following checks:

Right to volunteer in the UK

To avoid discrimination we treat all volunteer applicants equally.

We therefore ask all volunteers to confirm they have a Right to Volunteer in the UK.

References

If offered a volunteer role, we will seek 2 references. Ideally, one of these should be your current or last employer, however we understand this isn’t always possible. We ask that one of your referees has known you at least a year.

Examples of references could include:

• a professional from your centre of study, for instance a teacher, lecturer or headteacher
• GP or health visitor
• a character reference from a person who knows you (so familial relations or partners)
• a civil servant from a government agency
• a bank manager

DBS

All volunteer roles are subject to DBS checks at the relevant level.

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Launceston to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

DofE Program Leader

Challenge Adventure Group (“CAG” for short and the operating name of CAG Trust) is a voluntary youth organisation for Knowle, Dorridge and beyond aimed at boys aged 10 and above.

As our name suggests, we provide challenging, adventurous and fun activities and the D of E Award for young people in their leisure time. Taking part in fun experiential activities enables members to develop their physical and mental skills and capacities and reach their full potential of becoming positive, active and happy citizens.

Summary

CAG was formed in 2009 and became a charity, CAG Trust, in 2019. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a UK charity that makes a difference to young people’s lives and prepares them for life and work. Young people from every possible background take part in the DofE programme each year to broaden their horizons, develop their leadership skills, learn to work with others, volunteer in their local communities, increase their employability, and prove to themselves they can succeed at a serious challenge. 

The DofE Leaders perform a vital role on behalf of the DofE and CAG. They are the adult leaders responsible for the management and training of a DofE group which could be at Bronze, Silver or Gold level. They lead, guide, train and support young people, agree their program choices, sign off their completed sections and approve their eDofE evidence.

Description

We are looking for someone to lead and train our DofE groups to a successful conclusion and take home an award to be proud of.

To get the most out of this role, you’ll probably have worked with young people before and have a love of the great outdoors and maybe into paddling, cycling, mountain biking or walking. You’ll be comfortable with the skills needed to complete expeditions (e.g. navigation, route planning, map reading, using a compass, campcraft) and be able to cope with changing and challenging situations. 

Formal qualifications in outdoor leadership (e.g. BEL or ML awards) or other skills (e.g.canoeing) are welcomed but not essential. CAG can provide training opportunities to the right person.

Key Tasks

Young people

• Ensure the delivery of high quality programmes to young people in the DofE group.

• Manage the provision of a safe and enjoyable DofE programme for participants in the DofE group.

• Support participants to decide on their program choices and set their timescales and goals.

• Regularly encourage and review participation in chosen activities by participants.

• Train teams to undertake expeditions.

• Support expedition team(s) with their expedition planning.

• Coordinate with other CAG team members for the successful planning and completion of expeditions.

• Encourage the use of eDofE by participants, regularly approve uploaded evidence and agree the completion of sections.

• Celebrate achievements as often as possible.

CAG - the Licensed Organisation

• Keep in regular contact with the DofE Manager / Coordinator  and CAG Trips Coordinator.

• Respond to requests from CAG in a timely manner.

General

• Regularly communicate with parents about DofE group plans / meetings etc.

• Use eDofE to measure the performance of the DofE group and to keep abreast of participation.

In addition DofE Leaders must undertake the e-induction and Introduction to the DofE courses.

Further training may be undertaken by completing the DofE Leadership Programme.

Ideally you should have / be:

• An ability to communicate with adults and young people, both verbally and in writing.

• An ability to organise and plan effectively.

• Office software literate.

• Able to provide inspirational leadership and motivate young people.

• Experience of working with young people.

• Build, maintain and facilitate effective working relationships with a wide range of people.

• Plan, manage and monitor your own tasks and time.

In addition you will need:

• Integrity.

• Committed to ensuring high standards.

• Commitment to DofE’s guiding principles & CAG ethos.

• Flexible approach.

• Self-motivated.

• A car driver or have ability to travel to attend events and meetings

• The post holder must be able to provide a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check, either a current or new application that can be made through CAG.

Making a difference - what impact will the opportunity have?

Your input is key to the running of CAG as well as securing its future.  This role puts you in a real position to support young people in developing their skills in expedition activities. You will play an invaluable part of the quality checking process of the expeditions. If you’re thinking of a career in teaching, youth work or outdoor education, or wish  to further your experience as an expedition expert, this role will give you invaluable experience.

What's in it for the volunteer? 

You would become part of our small, friendly team and you have the opportunity to use your time, skills and experience to make a real difference to CAG and the community in which we operate.   You will also have some fun, support a good  cause, gain skills and experience, and support the DofE. 

About the location

Where will the volunteer be working?

The volunteer can do some of the work remotely, for instance, access eDofE from home and contact participants via online messaging services.  However, most of your time will be spent working in close contact with the DofE participants at our unit in Bickenhill on Tuesday meeting nights or on some weekends away on training and practice expeditions.

Travel Limit

• Some remote work but mainly on Tuesday nights at our meeting place in Bickenhill, Solihull.

When will the volunteer be working?

Volunteer availability

• Mostly Tuesday evenings (CAG’s meeting night 7pm - 9pm during term time).

• Expeditions happen several times a year, in locations locally and further afield so you will need to be available for some weekends away for expedition training and practice - for instance in the Derbyshire Peak District, Shropshire etc.

Estimate of time commitment

• 0 - 4 hours / week and some weekends - the candidate will be able to offer further time as they wish.

Details

The volunteering could be long term. 

Application details

Successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS and two references.

As an activity group driver, you’ll collect older people from their homes, accompany them to the monthly activity group and drop them home again afterwards.

The activity group will be at the same community venue and will include older people, activity group leads, drivers, and the activity group coordinator. Activity groups normally last around two hours and will include an activity that gets people moving such as: dance, chair exercises, boules, skittles or boccia.

Activity groups are free monthly groups that are open to older people who are lonely, isolated and in need of companionship. Activity groups are a great way for older people to stay active and to make new friends in their local area.

To become an activity group driver, you’ll need to:

• Attend a 30-minute online volunteer group induction
• Complete an ID check
• Provide a reference
• Complete online volunteer training modules

Tasks include:

• Calling the older people to remind them about the activity group and to check that they’re still able to attend.
• Keeping in regular contact with the activity group coordinator so they know when you’re available to drive, and so you know which older people you’re driving.
• Planning your route so you can safely collect the older people and drive them to and from the activity group in good time.
• Collecting one or two older people, driving them to the activity group and dropping them home again afterwards.
• Staying at the activity group to help serve refreshments and to socialise with the older people and other volunteers.
• Following the guidance in the online volunteer training so that the activity groups are safe, enjoyable, appropriate and in line with our charitable aims.
• Reporting any concerns to the activity group coordinator.
• Keeping your knowledge and training up to date by reading our monthly volunteer newsletter – Re-engage Matters.