Alfriston Lunch and Learn Volunteer

Project overview: 

Alfriston Outreach Service is dedicated to supporting older and vulnerable people in Kingston to live independently at home. We provide services such as hot lunch delivery, shopping, and laundry, helping people remain safe and well in their own homes. Alongside this, we run our new ‘Lunch and Learn’ programme — a time-limited series of sessions where service users are invited into the centre for a shared meal followed by a skills-based workshop. Topics include digital skills, money management, wellbeing, and access to relevant local services. The aim is to build confidence, develop practical skills, and support people to connect with wider community services, ensuring positive progression and avoiding long-term dependency. 

About us:  

Mind in Kingston supports people with mental health issues and raises awareness within Kingston and surrounding areas. We provide comprehensive training, supervision, and opportunities for career development. 

Volunteers are extremely valued within our team and a vital part of our service delivery. We welcome applications from people from all walks of life, including those who may have personal or professional experience of mental health. While lived experience can bring valuable perspective, it is not a requirement for volunteering with us. Our focus is on providing volunteers with the training, guidance and supervision they need to feel confident in their roles and to develop their skills. Volunteers are supported to succeed and offered opportunities to connect with trustees, staff and other volunteers both professionally and socially. Above all, we value the contribution volunteers make to our community and are committed to recognising their achievements. 

Main purpose of the role: 

• Welcome and engage with service users attending the Lunch and Learn sessions. 

• Help create a friendly and supportive environment that encourages confidence, participation, and positive social interaction. 

• Assist with the smooth running of both the lunch and learning elements of the session. 

• Support service users to take part in activities, while encouraging independence and signposting to staff where needed. 

Tasks will include: 

• Supporting set-up and planning for service users before they arrive. 

• Greeting service users on arrival and guiding them to seats or facilities if required. 

• Serving lunch and helping to create a relaxed, sociable atmosphere. 

• Chatting with service users and encouraging their participation in the session, referring any questions or concerns to staff. 

• Assisting the speaker/facilitator during the learning activity (e.g. handing out materials, supporting group engagement). 

• Helping with clear-up after the event has finished. 

• Maintain knowledge of local services for signposting. 

• Reporting risks & safeguarding concerns. 

• Maintain regular contact with the supervisor. 

• Attend meetings and supervision sessions. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in skills that will include mental health awareness and boundaries. 

• Training in adult safeguarding and local procedures. 

• Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor. 

• Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support. 

• An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston. 

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses. 

• Professional references upon completion. 

• *Alfriston volunteers only: access to a discounted lunch (£5 per lunch, subject to availability). A minimum of 24 hours’ notice must be given. 

What we expect from you: 

• Commitment for at least six months. 

• Completion of required training. 

• Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding). 

• Proactive engagement with your supervisor for support. 

Application Process: 

• Two recent references are required. 

• An enhanced DBS check is necessary. 

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from someone who has supervised you recently in your work or studies, such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults.