Volunteer supporters volunteer roles in romford, essex
WANTED: Local Legends. No Cape Required.
Some kids climb trees.
Some build rockets from cardboard boxes.
Some are learning how to light a fire without burning their eyebrows off.
They’re curious, messy, hilarious – and they need YOU.
At 23rd Poplar Scouts, we’ve got a growing bunch of Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers (ages 4 to 18) who are bursting with energy, questions, and potential.
And we’re looking for more grown-ups (yes, you!) to join our crew of volunteers.
Here's the deal - we don’t care if you can’t tie 12 knots or survive a week in the woods with just a spork or whether you're a parent, student, working professional, or retiree.
We do care if you:
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Enjoy seeing young people grow in confidence
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Like a laugh
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Are reliable
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Are up for trying something new (even if it involves glitter, tents, or biscuits)
You could help once a week, once a month, or just whenever you can. We’ll show you the ropes, give you some training, and promise not to make you wear shorts in winter.
This is about community, confidence, and connection – and giving young people a place to feel like they belong.
Sound good?
Click on apply and share a few details about yourself.
Join us at 23rd Poplar Scouts and help shape the future, one adventure at a time.
Volunteer roles available in:
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Squirrels (4–6 yrs) – storytelling, play, and first friendships.
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Beavers (6–8 yrs) – crafts, games, and learning new things.
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Cubs (8–10½ yrs) – exploring, teamwork, and outdoor skills.
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Scouts (10½–14 yrs) – adventure, responsibility, and independence.
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Explorers (14–18 yrs) – leadership, community service, and big challenges.
As a group, we set out to produce lasting memories and experiences that our members wouldn't get anywhere else.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Area administrators are an invaluable part of our team. They provide administrative support to our area coordinators and teams, organising and taking notes in area meetings. They're also an important link in how we evidence the impact of Shannon Trust, prompting and following-up data and monthly reports from our prison volunteers.
We are looking for a volunteer who is organised and good IT and admin skills. You will provide support to your area coordinator in supporting both prisons and volunteers. You will be providing communication links between everyone through organising meetings and sending email updates. Your role will help us to access the vital information which shows our impact on our learners.
Much of the role can take place on any day of the week and in the evenings but you will need to be able to attend a daytime area meeting 4 times a year, attend our induction workshops and national area administrators meetings.
For full role description and to apply please visit our website
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about fitness and the positive impact it can have on others? Do you hold a fitness qualification and interested in volunteering your time to support people in crisis? If so, we have the perfect role for you!
We know that exercise releases happy endorphins that support us to improve our mood. It also helps reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation, provides an opportunity to connect with others and build friendships. Volunteering with us at Hestia, will mean you will play a vital role in supporting people’s overall wellbeing!
We are recruiting volunteers to coordinate and facilitate fitness and general wellbeing sessions online!
What you will be doing
- Design session plans which will enable group members to increase fitness and their general well-being
- Able to recognise the needs of beginners and mixed age/ability groups
- Ensure that everyone taking part has completed a health and wellbeing form, which includes referring those with existing health issues to their GP
- Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team
The skills you need
- A skilled and qualified Fitness Instructor
- Good communication skills
- Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
- Calm and patient approach
- Willing to participate in supervision and to liaise with Hestia staff as required
What's in it for you
- Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
- Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
- Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.




Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The role in a nutshell:
Volunteers help to keep Age UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you!
What will you be doing?
Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.
How would you be supported in this role?
When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.
Why do we need volunteers in this role?
Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.
Additional information:
We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.
What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?
Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?
Yes? We’d love to hear from you.
What is knus?
knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.
What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.
Here’s some further information on what’s needed:
Are you over 18 and living in the UK?
You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
Do you have a laptop?
A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.
How much time can you give?
A minimum of 3+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.
Do you like to learn?
We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is CPD accredited. 20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.
If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.
Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £20.60 for an Enhanced DBS check. If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.
You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.
To always be ‘by your side’ when you need mental health peer support.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Bats are amazing animals and an important part of our natural environment. There are 18 species of bat in the UK, all of which are protected by law because their numbers have decreased so dramatically. BCT operates a National Bat Helpline to provide almost 15,000 enquirers a year with easily accessible and accurate information, including getting injured bats to the care they need. The Helpline’s role in advising and supporting people who come into contact with bats is an important part of BCT’s work towards our vision of a world rich in wildlife where bats and people thrive together.
About the role
As a volunteer you will answer calls from the public, providing advice on bat care calls and putting them in touch with local bat care volunteers where possible. We consistently receive feedback from volunteers to say that this role can be challenging at times, but with the support from the team, and the knowledge that they are helping bats and advising members of the public makes it such a rewarding role. Many enjoy it so much that they return to volunteer the next season! Volunteers took about 1,500 calls between Sep 2022 - May 2023.
You do not need to have prior experience in conservation to volunteer, anyone who is interested in helping bats is welcome to apply. Volunteering for the Helpline is a great way to get involved in conservation from the comfort of your home and during your spare time.
Commitment
Winter volunteers will be ready to start Bat Watches on Mon 6th Oct. We hope volunteers will sign up to Bat Watches until May 2026 and there is always the option to continue volunteering after May.
We hope that volunteers will be able to sign up to 1-2 Bat Watches per month between Sep – May.
A Bat Watch is up to 3.5 hours (including 30mins break), please see below for Bat Watch times:
Weekdays
Morning
9:30 – 13:00
Afternoon
13:00 – 16:30
*Please note that VBCH winter season operates In Office Hours only.
All you need is:
- A computer/laptop with internet access (or a tablet, although a computer is preferable)
- A speaker/mic or headset to use with your computer, as phone calls will be received using an internet app on your device.
- A phone with reliable reception for contacting support staff where needed.
Skills and abilities
- Competent in using computers and entering data onto an online form.
- Accurate record-keeping.
- An interest in UK wildlife and conservation and/or animal welfare.
- Affective communication skills and ability to reassure members of the public during calls.
- Willingness to spend additional time reading training materials and keeping up to date with communications from the project coordinator.
Training and support
New winter volunteers must complete some introductory online training in their own time and attend one online training day on either:
- Wed 3rd Sep
- Thu 11th Sep
Training days will run between 10:30am and 2:30pm with breaks.
Returning winter volunteers (those who have done a winter season with us in 2023 or 2024), will receive a refresher training video instead. If you have done a winter season with us pre-2023, you will need to attend a full training day. Thank you!
All volunteers will receive a comprehensive manual and full support from BCT staff during their assigned bat watches and throughout the season. During the virtual training day, we will provide an induction explaining what we do and how volunteers fit within our organisation. We will also provide training to assist you to meet the standards we expect from volunteers.
BCT will reimburse certain "out of pocket" expenses where required.
Benefits of volunteering with BCT
- Supporting and learning about the work of the leading NGO in the UK solely devoted to the conservation of bats
- Developing transferable skills that can help enhance your CV
- Developing confidence in speaking to members of the public
- Learning about opportunities to get involved in other aspects of bat conservation
- Learning more about bats
- Discounts to BCT training
How to sign up
To find out more and sign up, please click the link above. You will need to create a Better Impact account to sign up.
Further instructions on how to sign up are available on our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a skilled and passionate Volunteer Trust & Grant Bid Writer to help secure funding that will enable us to continue and grow our life-transforming work in Christian mental health. Working with the Director of Development, the role will involve identifying funding opportunities, preparing compelling grant applications, and helping us build strong relationships with trusts and foundations aligned with our mission.
Mercy UK is a Christian mental health and wellbeing charity, committed to equipping people to live free and stay free through a range of trauma-informed, faith-based support services. From our flagship Freedom Journey programme to practical resources like Keys to Freedom, we support individuals navigating emotional and spiritual challenges and empower churches and Christian organisations to provide meaningful, transformational support.
Key Responsibilities
● Research suitable grant-making trusts and foundations, with a particular focus on those funding mental health, faith-based initiatives, and/or community wellbeing.
● Work closely with the Director of Development to maintain a pipeline of prospective funders.
● Draft high-quality, tailored funding applications that reflect the heart, outcomes, and impact of Mercy UK’s work.
● Collate and interpret project data, outcomes, and financial information to support applications.
● Support the development of template responses and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.
● Assist in preparing follow-up reports or updates required by funders.
What We’re Looking For
● Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and inspiring content.
● Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.
● Experience of fundraising through trusts and foundations, or equivalent transferable experience in writing bids or proposals.
● An ability to articulate and represent Christian values and ethos respectfully and effectively in written applications.
● Passion for mental health and wellbeing, and alignment with Mercy UK’s mission and values.
What You’ll Gain
● The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing, impactful charity.
● Experience in trust and grant fundraising, with support and guidance from our development team.
● A chance to use your skills to directly support the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing of individuals across the UK and beyond.
● References and testimonials for future opportunities.
● Access to Mercy UK’s Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured
The role carries an Occupational Requirement on the grounds of religion and belief in keeping with current guidance. The postholder must be able to demonstrate a Christian belief and value system, in line with Mercy UK’s statement of faith, ethical framework and core competency statement.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The role in a nutshell:
Volunteers help to keep Age UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you!
What will you be doing?
Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.
How would you be supported in this role?
When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.
Why do we need volunteers in this role?
Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.
Additional information:
We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.
What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The role in a nutshell:
Volunteers help to keep Age UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you!
What will you be doing?
Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.
How would you be supported in this role?
When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.
Why do we need volunteers in this role?
Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.
Additional information:
We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.
What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The role in a nutshell:
Volunteers help to keep Age UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you!
What will you be doing?
Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.
How would you be supported in this role?
When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.
Why do we need volunteers in this role?
Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.
Additional information:
We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.
What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The role in a nutshell:
Volunteers help to keep Age UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you!
What will you be doing?
Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.
How would you be supported in this role?
When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.
Why do we need volunteers in this role?
Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.
Additional information:
We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.
What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Yoga Stops Traffick is an international campaign to raise awareness of and funds for survivors of human trafficking in India. Every year thousands of yoga practitioners from all corners of the globe roll out their mats to stand in solidarity with young survivors. The funds raised from Yoga Stops Traffick help rescue and rehabilitate survivors of human trafficking, sexual and domestic violence, modern-day slavery, and child marriage.
We are seeking 2 enthusiastic volunteers to support Yoga Stops Traffick 2026. You will join a small but ambitious team with tons of passion, and you will have a real chance to see the impact of your work!
About this volunteer role
This is an administration support role so we will be asking you to carry out administrative tasks such as:
- Copying and pasting templated emails, personalising them and then sending them to yoga studios and teachers.
- Compiling lists of yoga studios and teachers to contact.
- Updating trackers based on email responses.
- Responding to customer enquiries.
If the volunteer feels confident to, they might also be asked to do some social media, newsletter and website administrative work. And if they have ideas for how to improve the campaign further - they will be welcomed with enthusiasm!
What we offer in return:
• A supportive team to work alongside
• Training and induction from Adventure Ashram
• The opportunity to gain campaign experience at a small charity
• The knowledge you have made a positive difference to people’s lives
Requirements of role:
• Ideally a commitment of approx. 2-6 hours per week
• Equipment you need: Laptop/PC, Internet Access
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Meditation can give us a sense of calm, peace and balance that can benefit both our emotional wellbeing and overall health. Do you have experience in delivering meditation sessions and would like to give back your time to support people in crisis?
The hustle and bustle of everyday life can leave us feeling tired and burnt out. People in our services are feeling this more than ever and would benefit from learning mindfulness techniques and strategies. It is important for us to pay more attention to the present moment, our own thoughts, feelings and the world around us as it is known to support and improve our mental wellbeing, sleep, and increase our overall happiness.
What you will be doing
- Facilitate a weekly online meditation session in a small group
- Plan each session and identify any items needed for the Meditation sessions.
- Lead on the logistics and set up of the session alongside the staff team.
- Inspire and motivate people using the services to attend.
- Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team.
The skills you need
- Have an interest in quizzes
- Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
- Good communication skills
- Calm and patient approach
What's in it for you
- Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
- Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
- Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.




Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of the issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sport. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to sports clubs, sporting venues and facilities and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a sporting world without barriers.
What you’ll be doing
1. Talks to sports and physical activity providers to support and encourage them to consider the needs of blind and partially sighted people by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local leisure centres, sporting venues and sports clubs.
2. Delivering talks to raise awareness of existing sporting and physical activity opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
3. Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service.
What you’ll gain from the role
1. A chance to give something back in an area you are passionate about.
2. A chance to make a difference with a sense of achievement.
3. A chance to build a strong community of sports people with sight loss.
4. A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people, increasing your confidence and skills to talk to groups of people with impact, with an opportunity to develop your role into delivering independently over time.
5. Opportunity to explore different roles within our organisation including our internal recruitment vacancies
In return for donating your time we will support you with:
1. A rewarding role
2. A great Induction and Training, in particular training in public speaking and story telling will be given.
3. A supportive Manager
4. Regular catch-ups
5. Expenses
6. An opportunity to connect with other volunteers
How often will I be needed?
- 4 Hours per Month
Key requirements
- This role requires 1 reference.
Location
Region
- Scotland
Who this opportunity will suit
- This role is reserved for blind and partially sighted applicants
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- You’ll ideally have 1. Lived experience in playing, spectating, or delivering sport or physical activity sessions as a blind or partially sighted person. 2. Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sports and physical activity. 3. Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your sporting story, or a willingness to try with our support. 4. Have effective communication skills. 5. An outgoing friendly approach to meeting new people
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are delighted to have secured funding to deliver a 24-month befriending programme. This exciting opportunity will support the delivery of our ambitious five-year strategy by:
- Promoting Independence - ensuring more older people can stay independent for longer
- Providing Connection - enabling friendship and social connection for older People
The befriending service will be provided through 2 different strands which aim to support older people in different ways based on the needs identified via an assessment. Clients will enter the strand that is most appropriate to their needs.
- Strand A: We will offer a local face-to-face service of up to 1 hour for 26 weeks. Strand A provision would be appropriate for older people who have experienced a recent life event, such as a hospital admission, bereavement or home move and who need time limited support and guidance to connect with suitable services and activities.
- Strands B: We will offer ongoing support either face-to- face of up to 1 hour or by telephone between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Strand B provision is for older people leaving Strand A that require long term support or for those who are identified as needing ongoing face-to-face or local telephone befriending support on entry to the programme. As a befriender you will be asked to select your type of volunteering preference.
Purpose of Role
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Provide companionship, emotional support, and a listening ear to people who may be lonely or isolated.
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Provide monthly reports to the Volunteer Manager on your client.
Key tasks
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Make a regular weekly visit or phone call to a client who has been matched to you, at a time suitable to the older person.
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Provide conversation and company.
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Spend time chatting with the client, talking with them about their current and past life experiences.
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Report any emerging issues or concerns that the older person has agreed to be shared with us such as safeguarding issues or a change in personal circumstance or health.
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Make the client aware of any other services across AUKEL they may benefit from.
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Maintain records of client contact and send this to the Volunteer Manager on a monthly basis.
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Regularly meet with your befriending peers and supervisor, to share experiences, get support and reflect.
Skills and attributes
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Understanding loneliness and social isolation.
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Good communication skills with a friendly approachable manner.
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Keen on building a strong befriending relationship.
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A desire to learn more about an individual and their interests and their past, and life history.
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Consistency and reliability.
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Understanding of Confidentiality.
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Understanding of and empathy with the needs of older people.
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Patience and Sensitivity.
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Confidence to deal with emergencies.
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Record keeping.
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Basic IT skills.
Support Provided
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You will be inducted in cohorts with other volunteers.
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Training for the role is provided including Safeguarding, Making Every Contact Count, Sexual Harassment and Building a positive volunteering experience and other more.
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Ongoing support including regular supervision by the Volunteer Manager.
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Goup supervision with other befrienders. Groups supervision is a safe place where you can share experiences, challenges, and successes, process emotion and learn from each other.
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Reimbursement of agreed expenses.
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Access to an AGE UK Discount portal provided by Aon.
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Monthly volunteer newsletter
We hold an annual Volunteer Award event where we celebrate and recognise the contribution of our Volunteers!
Benefits
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Making a Difference: Volunteering allows you to have a tangible impact on someone's life, particularly those in vulnerable situations. Helping older people can provide a strong sense of accomplishment and purpose.
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Emotional Rewards
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Intergenerational Connections
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Learning and Skill Development
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Enhancing Career Prospects
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Building Empathy and Compassion
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Giving Back to the Community
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Social and celebration events
Commitment
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We expect a minimum of 6 months commitment but would ideally prefer more of a longer-term commitment.
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Weekly commitment is between 30 minutes to 1 hour for client plus one/two hours monthly for reporting.