Administrator And Communications Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Outline of the Referrals Networker role

If you thrive on networking and making new connections, this vital and interesting role offers the opportunity to create and develop relationships with local agencies, such as Job Centres, social services and many others who may be able to refer potential Readers to the group. The longevity of our local groups is down to securing a steady stream of Reader referrals, so you will play an instrumental part in making sure your group thrives.

How we will support you

You will be provided with the Management Team Handbook, training/induction, policies and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, via your Team Leader. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional forums and annual conference which give volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.

What you will be doing

● Liaising with your group to establish which organisations have already been contacted, so that you can build on that initial work.

● Managing the relationship between the referral agencies and the group.

● Seeking out new referral agencies as the group grows in capacity.

● Familiarising yourself with the Publicity Organiser’s resources available to you.

● Creating a record of organisations and agencies who are likely to come into contact with those who don’t read and the dates you are in touch with them.

● Contacting these organisations regularly to provide information about what your group offers and identify how they can best inform their personnel to make referrals.

● Keeping your local group informed about your activity and identifying how many of your© Read Easy UK 2 June 2023 contacts refer new Readers.

● Attending Management Team meetings, typically every 6-8 weeks.

The skills you will need

● Confidence to promote the work of Read Easy and how it can support local people who would like to improve their reading skills.

● Ability to develop strong working relationships with local referral agencies and to manage expectations.

● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.

● Reasonable confidence in using IT.

● The ability to use initiative and work independently.

● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.

● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.

● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.

● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of two hours a week to commit to the role.

What is in it for you?

● Use your knowledge of the local area to liaise with a variety of organisations

● Meet and work collaboratively with new people

● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community

Interested?

If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, please contact the person who sent you this role description.

Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject to Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references, and eligibility for Management Team roles in line with Charity Commission regulations for trustees

Please see the ‘Introduction to Read Easy for potential Management Team volunteers’ to find out more about the structure and responsibilities of the Management Team.