Health And Safety Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Working closely with the Membership and Information Coordinator, this role involves meeting with community food members to review their requirements, and ensure that the food they receive from FareShare is being stored and distributed in accordance with FareShare regulations. The role includes travelling to CFM premises across Greater Manchester and carrying out office based administration.
 

Where? Maynard House, New Smithfield Market. Openshaw M11 2WJ

Hours? Monday to Friday. Start times between 09:00 -10:00 for a minimum four hour shift

How often? Volunteers are typically involved for one shift a week.

Support? The role is supported by the FareShare Membership Coordinator.

What will I be doing?

Arranging meetings with members by telephone or email.

Carrying out the offsite meetings, including completing a checklist and taking note of customer queries or concerns.

Following up on any required actions with the customer, and internally with the FareShare Membership Coordinator.

Inputting/updating data on to the database.

Answering phones and taking messages.

Completing and filing all paperwork accurately

Our requirements

Car user (travelling throughout the Greater Manchester boroughs). Clean Driving licence or max 3 points

ABOUT FARESHARE

FareShare is the UK’s national network of charitable food redistributors, made up of 18 independent organisations. Together, we take good quality surplus food from right across the food industry and get it to nearly 8,500 frontline charities and community groups, (CFMs), including school breakfast clubs, older people’s lunch clubs, homeless shelters, and community cafes. Every week we provide enough food to create almost one million meals for vulnerable people.

FareShare Greater Manchester has been run by EMERGE 3Rs since 2008. EMERGE is a charity that has been active in the 3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycle) since 1996. From our regional centre based on New Smithfield Market we redistribute food to over 250 CFMs.

Strong interpersonal skills, ability to communicate with diverse communities

IT Skills

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (this qualification can be completed at FareShare).

Ability to prioritise and organise duties

Familiarity with answering phone and taking messages when required.

Data inputting using Excel and the FareShare in house database

Training

A full induction followed by a ‘Taster’ session progressing to ongoing training for the role, by on-the-job training and e-learning.

What you can expect from the volunteer role

Out of pocket expenses reimbursed – up to £6 for travel and up to £3 for lunch upon completion of a 4 hour shift

Mileage expenses reimbursed for off-site visits

Experience of working in a team

A reference after 3 months if applicable

Knowledge of the importance and benefits of addressing food surplus and recycling.

You will be required to complete introductory sessions before you are confirmed in the role.

Are you a Christmas-lover with a secret desire to don a Hi-vis vest?!  We need a team of jolly volunteer marshals to represent Mental Health Resource at this charity fundraising event, taking place in Grosvenor & Hilbert Park in Tunbridge Wells on 7 December 2024.  This marshalling role involves directing Santa runners along the 3K route, ensuring the safety of participants and helping the event run smoothly.

Santas helpers are needed from 12.30pm until 4.30pm.  Hi-vis vests are provided - just bring yourselves and your christmas cheer!

Ref: V232 | Support Group Volunteer | Bexhill

We’re looking for one Support Group Volunteer over the age of 18 years old, based at The Pelham, Holliers Hill, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex, TN40 2DD, but some volunteering can be done remotely.

You’ll be volunteering on occasional Fridays, with additional time for administration work.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group.  The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A DBS check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.

If you are interested in this role please find more details on our website link.

We want to reduce barriers to inclusion. Help us understand who’s applying for and getting roles with us by completing our Equal Opportunities Form. This helps us continue to identify anything that’s getting in the way of people looking to join us. This information does not form part of your application.

About Us

Stroke Association. Rebuilding lives after stroke.

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. That’s because a stroke happens in the brain, the control centre for who we are and what we can do. It happens every five minutes in the UK and changes lives instantly. Recovery is tough, but with the right specialist support and a ton of courage and determination, the brain can adapt.

We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. And it’s a team effort to get there.

We provide specialist support, fund critical research and campaign to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.

We’re working to improve the diversity of our team.  Because we know that individuality leads to a richer experience for our people and better support for those affected by stroke. 

We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. And we’re particularly looking to increase the number of applications from those with lived experience of stroke and those from under-represented communities. 

Every five minutes, stroke destroys lives. Help us rebuild them and join our team.

In 2019, we developed a bold new corporate strategy so that we can rebuild more lives after stroke and make a bigger difference to people’s lives.  

To help us deliver our strategy and make a real difference, we are looking to recruit talented people to a number of new roles.

If you would like to support stroke survivors to rebuild their lives, we want to hear from you!

Ref: V233 | Support Group Volunteer | Cuckfield

We’re looking for three Support Group Volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based Queens Hall, High Street, Cuckfield, West Sussex, RH17 5EL.

You’ll be volunteering for around 3 hours every Wednesday morning as a regular commitment, with occasional outings.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group.  The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A DBS check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.

If you are interested in this role please find more details on our website link.

We want to reduce barriers to inclusion. Help us understand who’s applying for and getting roles with us by completing our Equal Opportunities Form. This helps us continue to identify anything that’s getting in the way of people looking to join us. This information does not form part of your application.

About Us

Stroke Association. Rebuilding lives after stroke.

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. That’s because a stroke happens in the brain, the control centre for who we are and what we can do. It happens every five minutes in the UK and changes lives instantly. Recovery is tough, but with the right specialist support and a ton of courage and determination, the brain can adapt.

We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. And it’s a team effort to get there.

We provide specialist support, fund critical research and campaign to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.

We’re working to improve the diversity of our team.  Because we know that individuality leads to a richer experience for our people and better support for those affected by stroke. 

We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. And we’re particularly looking to increase the number of applications from those with lived experience of stroke and those from under-represented communities. 

Every five minutes, stroke destroys lives. Help us rebuild them and join our team.

In 2019, we developed a bold new corporate strategy so that we can rebuild more lives after stroke and make a bigger difference to people’s lives.  

To help us deliver our strategy and make a real difference, we are looking to recruit talented people to a number of new roles.

If you would like to support stroke survivors to rebuild their lives, we want to hear from you!

About Pain Concern

 Pain Concern is a charity providing information and support to people with pain and those who care for them, whether family, friends or healthcare professionals. Visit our website to find out more about what we do, including our Airing Pain radio programme, Pain Matters magazine, information helpline, community pain education sessions and our research and campaigning work. All pain is unpleasant, but for the 7.8 million people in the UK living with long-term pain it is a part of everyday life. It diminishes quality of life more than any other condition, leading often to loss of work, depression and disability. Anyone at any age can develop persistent pain and you will very probably know somebody affected. Although there is usually no cure, people who receive the appropriate treatment, information and support can manage their condition effectively with life-changing results 

Purpose of Volunteer Role

This role supports our aim in delivering pain education in our communities and providing access to high quality resources to those who may not have digital access. As an ambassador you will provide tailored information on pain management services available in the local health board area and Signpost to any other support services in the community. Promote the concept of supported self-management as a recommended, effective intervention for chronic pain. Help make a difference to people living with pain by providing a powerful platform to hear the views and experiences for the all too often, voiceless patients. Due to the nature of the role, successful applicants will be required to undertake a PVG check.

What would you be doing 

• Have personal experience of chronic pain (e.g., a diagnosis or experience of supporting a family member or friend).

• Representing Pain Concern in a professional manner

• Build a network with local GP surgeries, NHS health board.

• Attend Pain Management groups (virtually or in person), to highlight long term support options.

• Making conversation with members of the public as appropriate, and answering questions about the charity’s work.

• Signpost to helpline, Pain Concern information leaflets, Airing Pain etc

• Carry out research into community groups, local events and businesses in your area, so that you can contact them to attend fayres, exhibitions etc

• Attend cheque presentations and local events officially thanking donors and hosts for their support

• Adhere to Pain Concern’s policies and procedures at all times, including Safeguarding; Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Health & Safety; Data Protection; Confidentiality;

• Attend training and volunteer meetings

• Keep your Volunteer Manager up to date on your activities, including the contacts you’ve made and talks that you’ve arranged. 

Is this role right for me

 We are looking for an individual who possesses some or all of the below experiences, skills and qualities.

• Friendly, positive and outgoing personality

• Tenacity and enthusiasm for sourcing opportunities in your community

• Enthusiasm and interest in chronic pain and the work we do

• Good communication skills, including public speaking

• Strong organisational skills, and an ability to work on own initiative and be proactive

• Access to the Internet and confidence in using it

• A good local knowledge

• Flexibility 

Availability and location

Minimum commitment of 6 months. Minimum 2-3 hours per week. By becoming one of our Community Ambassadors, you will travel in and around your geographical area to meet support groups and attend events and from our office at Newcraighall Road, Edinburgh EH15 3HS 

Benefits to you 

• Experience volunteering as part of a friendly team

• Meet new people

• Build on your employability skills

• Training and a dedicated volunteer line manager looking after you

• A job reference after 6 months of volunteering.

• Satisfaction of giving a valuable service to the community

• On-site car parking

• Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Policy

How do I apply

Download and complete an application form via the volunteering page on our website. For more information about this role please contact us via our website.

Our House Experience Volunteers add the sparkle to any visit – giving everyone a warm welcome, bringing stories from Ickworth to life and helping people get the best out of their day. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Warm and friendly.
• Someone with a curious and inquisitive nature, with an ability to engage our visitors, ask questions and facilitate conversations.
• Able to listen thoughtfully and actively.
• Someone with exceptional customer service standards- a desire to put visitors before everything else.
• A good storyteller, with a talent for reading body language and thinking on your feet
• Sensitive to visitor and volunteer needs – working as an effective team member.
• Willing to develop your knowledge of Ickworth, its history and vast collections.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Responding to the diverse needs of visitors, including people with additional access needs.
• Sharing inspirational stories, curious facts and practical information or simply the space for visitors to wander at their own pace.
• Helping visitors to discover more, answering questions and making suggestions so they can enjoy their day, their way.
• Being an ambassador for the whole property and the National Trust. Helping visitors understand the full scope of the offer at Ickworth beyond the house.
• Learning more about Ickworth, so you can share your knowledge and stories of the family and their collections with visitors.
• Responding to the changing needs of Ickworth – supporting ongoing interpretation strategies in the House.
• Supporting with health and safety and evacuation procedures if required.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

 By getting involved you could· 

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team.
  Spend time with us at Ickworth, learn about its history, stories and enjoy its beauty.
• Meet people from all walks of life
• Find an opportunity to use your existing skills and develop new ones.
  Improve your communication skills.
  Get a warm glow by knowing you have made a difference to someone’s day out with us.

 You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever.

All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Adaptability, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Event Support, Exhibition Arts, Fundraising, Interpersonal Skills, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Teamwork, Visual Arts

Role Summary:

To provide peer support at resilience group sessions for expectant and new mums (pregnancy up to 1 year) at Children & Family Centres across the London Borough of Bexley, or online via Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Successfully complete a training course for Mindful Mums Peer Support Volunteer. You will be fully supported during this time and on successful completion will understand different mindfulness, wellbeing, resilience and coping techniques and be confident in leading the peer support within these groups.

2. Prepare for and lead the peer support for a minimum of three Mindful Mums groups (over 5 consecutive weeks). Group dates and times will be discussed with you in advance.

3. Liaise with the Project Coordinator regarding sessions that need volunteers.

4. Contribute to the development of the content of the Mindful Mums sessions based on your experience as a parent.

5. Report any concerns arising from the sessions to the Project Coordinator and, where appropriate, the contact at the venue.

6. Participate in catch-up meetings with the Project Coordinator, group volunteer meetings and training on Safeguarding Children and Adults.

7. Take part in some Mindfulness practise.

8. At all times work in accordance with the organisation’s policies regarding Health & Safety, Equality & Diversity, Safeguarding Children, Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and Confidentiality & Data Protection.

Person Specification

To undertake the role of Mindful Mums Peer Support Volunteer, you must be able to show that you have the following:

o Experience of having felt stressed, low, anxious or have struggled with your mental or emotional wellbeing in other ways during the perinatal period (pregnancy to 1 year).

o Ability to communicate well with other mums.

o Skills to effectively facilitate sessions.

o Good interpersonal skills.

o Ability to work well in a team.

o Understanding of the pressures and stresses facing pregnant and new mums.

o Willingness to engage in some Mindfulness practise. 

o Willingness to talk from your own experience in an appropriate way.

o Ability to maintain appropriate and professional boundaries.

o A commitment to attend training, support groups and to deliver 5-week programmes in Children & Family Centres across Bexley, or online via Zoom.

Benefits of getting involved

·Being part of a team of local mums, who have all experienced perinatal mental health issues and who want to help pregnant and new mums build skills to manage their mental health in a positive way.

· Delivering an exciting and innovative project that really makes a difference to pregnant women and new mums.

Other Information

Successful applicants will be required to provide details of two references and agree to submit details for and undertake a Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) check.

The majority of courses will be run during school term times.

Free crèche facilities are sometimes available at the Children & Family Centres.

Reasonable expenses will be paid. 

Induction and training will commence in August 2024. This includes Online and In-person training. 

Summary of Role:

A key role at the food bank, you will run one shift a week alongside other Coordinators. You will work in close cooperation with volunteers and guests, ensuring that the food service is as smooth as possible, dealing with any incidents that may arise.

Location: St Michaels Church Hall, 37 Bounds Green Rd, London, N22 8SD

Hours: Tuesdays or Thursdays, 9am - 1pm or 12.30pm - 5pm. Plus a fortnightly meeting (2 hours)

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,300 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The Role:

1. Manage Food Service Volunteers 

• Manage the Section Leads and Food Service Volunteers, allocating tasks according to each volunteer’s experience and ability. 

• Make sure volunteers are aware of and follow food bank policies and procedures (e.g. the Kitchen Policy and using the food bank themselves).

• Ensure volunteers follow all health and safety precautions, including checking all items are in-date.

• Ensure all volunteers sign the register.

• Support volunteers, ensure they take breaks, help them deal with any difficult incidents and ensure they alert you to any issues.

• Be available to volunteers and responsive to their needs.

2. Manage Guests 

• Ensure that guests have completed the registration process and are referred to the Advice Team where eligibility to use the food bank has not been confirmed.

• Treat all guests equally, welcoming them to the food bank and making sure they are respected and thought about.

• Ensure the order of the queue is maintained. 

• Deal with any issues by speaking directly to the guest, asking them to follow the rules and helping them deal with any difficult incidents. 

• Ensure no alcohol or drugs are used at the food bank or in the queue.

3. Complete Daily Duties

• Prepare for setting up from 9am and complete shift at 1pm (depending on shift time).

• Prepare  to open the food bank to guests at 1pm and lock up at 5pm (depending on shift time).

• Receive deliveries: know what deliveries to anticipate and coordinate volunteers to direct the driver, unload their vehicle and load crates in the hall.

• Organise the decanting and repacking of items.

• Keep an eye on stocks and make a note of shortages.

• Complete additional tasks that may arise e.g. bagging food, getting rid of waste, and updating admin.

• Ensure the hall is clean and organised before locking up. 

Person Specification:

• Has 6 months’ experience in a similar capacity.

• Can organise and manage tasks efficiently.

• Can keep calm under pressure.

• Able to de-escalate difficult situations.

• Be willing to attend training eg. safeguarding, first aid and management skills.

• Willing to do administrative work (eg. taking minutes and reading the minutes of other meetings shared with the Food Service Team).

• Reliable, assertive and tactful with both volunteers and guests.

• Team player with good communication skills.

Are you happy to get stuck in with loads of enthusiasm? Fundraisers here at Ickworth are a diverse bunch and through talks, 2nd hand books, internal events and much more we help towards the conservation of this special place 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who enjoys talking to members of the public and can engage in a meaningful conversation.
• Comfortable lone working at times, as well as working in a team.
• Up for a challenge and like to reach a target.
• A person that enjoys giving excellent service.
• Happy to volunteer on your own. However, someone will always be available to support.
• Confident building new relationships with people.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Helping grow awareness and support for local & national fundraising
• Understanding different needs and interests of people and inspiring them to give in a way that is right for them.
• Supporting in our bookshop by manning the space, rotating stock, tidying and pricing books while always providing a friendly and welcoming approach.
• Attending regular meetings and suggesting fundraising ideas/feedback so we can fulfil our fundraising plan.
• Using your particular skills in creative ways to raise funds
• Answering questions people may have about the National Trust and being able to explain where donations go and impact they make.
• Ensuring we follow fundraising guidance, regulations and best practice
• Supporting big fundraising campaigns or projects.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

By getting involved you could:

• Be part of a passionate team, working closely with staff across departments raising vital funds to protect Ickworth.
• Be making a direct impact in our fundraising spaces, such as bookshop or through programming.
• Help bring the work of the National Trust to life and inspire others to get involved
• Increase your fundraising skills and experience of different ways to fundraise 

You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever. 

 All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Advice & Guidance, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Decision Making, E-commerce, Event Support, Fundraising, General Administration, Interpersonal Skills, Inventory Management, Market Research, Marketing & Communications, Merchandising, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Retail, Sales Process, Stock / Inventory Management, Teamwork

Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Secretary?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
• Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
• Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
• Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
• Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
• Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
• Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
• Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
• Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
• Support from the Chair of the branch
• Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Role Description

The Support Volunteer is part of the volunteering team of Say Aphasia. Alongside the Peer

Leader and Helping Hands Volunteer, the Support Volunteer supports individual Say Aphasia

meet-ups. The role specifically focuses on supporting the peer leader in roles that are easier

for someone without language impairment.

Roles

● Provide a safe, inclusive and accessible environment.

● Adhere to Say Aphasia’s policies and procedures.

● Responsible for group admin, alongside the Peer Leader:

○ Ensure group checklist is completed and implemented, during support group

meet-up.

○ Ensure the attendance forms are completed at every meet-up.

○ Ensure the member forms are completed for new members.

○ Ensure the visitor forms are completed for any visitors.

○ Give ‘Welcome Packs’ to new members.

○ Ensure members are contacted if group plans change, and inform the Charity

Coordinator.

● Responsible for gathering members' information using Say Aphasia’s digital

Forms alongside the Peer Leader.

○ Ensure contact details and emergency contact details are gathered and up to

date.

○ Ensure contact preferences are gathered and up to date.

○ Ensure pertinent medical concerns are known, up to date and readily

available.

● Provide communication support for members during the support group:

○ Support members to have a successful conversation.

○ Ensure everyone has access to communication aids.

○ Ensure members have the tools and support to express their opinions and

ideas.

○ Gather any members suggestions, comments and requirements mentioned

during the support group.

○ Be aware of, and capitalise on each members' communication preferences

(their preferred way to have a conversation). Add notes to the tablet computer

if needed.

○ Offer a listening ear to members and sign post them to relevant support.

● Contribute to group sustainability:

○ Contribute to identification and recording of fundraising opportunities, and

liaise with Local Group Facilitator.

○ Support the Local Group Facilitator to organise local fundraising.

● Contribute to improving the service:

○ Support Local Group Facilitator with gathering feedback from members when

required.

○ Note down any issues, ideas for improvement and relay this to the Charity

Coordinator.

● Support other volunteers:

○ Attend regular catch-ups with the Peer Leader and fellow volunteers.

○ Encourage a positive group ethos.

● Be an active advocate for the group.

● Responsible for safeguarding during each group meet-up: overseen by the

Local Group Facilitator

○ Responsible for the safekeeping of the tablet computer (iPad) and members'

information.

○ Be aware of members' pertinent medical concerns.

○ Be aware of health and safety policy.

● Ensure regular communication with the Charity Coordinator.

○ Inform the Local Group Facilitator of any:

■ changes to future group meet-ups

■ changes to members details

■ fundraising opportunities.

● Attend a quarterly support meeting for all Support Volunteers.

● Contact the Charity Coordinator if any issues arise that cannot be resolved

with the peer leader.

PLEASE NOTE THAT APPLICANTS MUST BE BASED IN THE UK AND LIVE LOCALLY.

Would you like to support people from within the serving community? You just need a friendly demeanour, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, please get in touch.

What is a Community Volunteer?

Community Volunteers provide practical help to serving people and their families. Whilst a friendly chat is an important aspect of the role you will also be providing some hands-on support like a lift to a medical appointment or help with shopping.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Armed Forces life can bring its challenges when a loved-one is deployed overseas, or a family must move to a new location. Some people find themselves facing illness, bereavement or unexpected financial problems. Day-to-day activities can become difficult without a little help. That’s where you come in. Could you spare a few hours a week to lend a helping hand to a family in your serving community?

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting beneficiaries, so you will be expected to travel to meet people at home or elsewhere.

Some volunteers will visit more people than others. Whilst you may visit a beneficiary, or family, on a regular basis support is always time-limited.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting beneficiaries and arranging to meet them at their home or in a suitable place depending on their needs
• Providing practical help like lifts to appointments, going to the shops, washing-up, running errands etc.
• Providing time limited, relief care for children (additional training is required for those undertaking this type of support).
• Helping people to think about how to access other support if needed and signposting as required
• Reporting any safeguarding concerns in line with SSAFA’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
• Keeping in touch with your Community Volunteer Coordinator, attending supervision and keeping a record of your visits.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support beneficiaries
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA
• Adhering to SSAFA’s policies and procedures at all times, including SSAFA’s: safeguarding; equality, diversity and inclusion; health & safety; data protection; confidentiality

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to the serving community
• Support people in your local serving community using your patience, time and life experience
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA Serving Community Team and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• One day training course for Community Volunteers. The option to pursue this course further and gain an accredited qualification in community volunteering. Additional training is required for those wishing to undertake the Relief Care Service for Children.
• Support from a local Community Volunteer Coordinator
• Support from SSAFA’s Welfare Team and Volunteer Experience Team based at our Central Office
• Online training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date with how to keep clients, their families and personal information safe
• Refresher training to keep your knowledge and skills up to date
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience and empathy
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Understanding of the need to remain within the boundaries of the role with regards to friendship, finances etc.
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA’s policies
• Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to travel to meet beneficiaries
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.

Minimum Age: 18

Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).

Is a criminal record check required? Yes* (the cost of this will be covered by SSAFA)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands or other information should not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, if required and where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered. 

Would you like to support people from within the serving community? You just need a friendly demeanour, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, please get in touch!

 

What is a Community Volunteer Coordinator?

Community Volunteers provide practical help to serving personnel and their families. In this role you will be coordinating and supporting a team of Community Volunteers providing the type of support local families tell us they need.

 

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Armed Forces life can bring its challenges when a loved one is deployed overseas, or a family has to move to a new location. Some people find themselves facing illness, bereavement or unexpected financial problems. Day-to-day activities can become difficult without a little help. That’s where you come in! Could you spare a few hours a week to support a local team of volunteers lending a helping hand to military families?

 

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about coordination and administration so many volunteers are able to do this from home or at their place of work.

 

What would you be doing?

• Accepting referrals, matching Community Volunteers with beneficiaries and overseeing the progress of cases.
• Working with the Serving Community Team and a Regional Operations Support Manager, to recruit and induct new Community Volunteers as needed
• Supported by the Learning and Development team and Volunteer Experience team in Central Office, ensuring that all volunteers undertake required training and tasks for their role
• Providing support, supervision and guidance to Community Volunteers
• Collating and sharing reporting information about the support provided to beneficiaries
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support volunteers and beneficiaries
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA
• Adhering to SSAFA’s policies and procedures at all times, including SSAFA’s: safeguarding; volunteering policy; equality, diversity and inclusion; health & safety; data protection; confidentiality

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to the serving community
• Support and friendship from the SSAFA Serving Community Team and the wider SSAFA community
• Build networks across your local area and meet new people
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• Training course for Community Volunteer Coordinators. Your experienced trainer will prepare you for your role and you’ll find out about the support available to you.
• Online training modules so you know how to keep beneficiaries, their families and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of online training modules to support with continued learning and development.
• Support from SSAFA’s Welfare team, Volunteer Experience team and Regional Operations Support Manager.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience and empathy
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook and Excel – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries with regards to providing support to beneficiaries
• Experience of organising or coordinating people would be advantageous but not essential
• Ability to travel to meet volunteers and beneficiaries
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.

 

Minimum Age: 18

 

Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).

 

Is a criminal record check required? Yes* (the cost of this check will be covered by SSAFA)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands or other information does not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, if required and where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered.

 

We work to make SSAFA as safe as possible for everyone. Part of this involves volunteers attending an informal interview, providing two suitable references, and completing relevant training and background checks for your role.

Are you a parent, grandparent or have experience of caring for children?

Do you have 2-3 hours per week to spare? Use your experience to support a family facing challenging times.

Our Home-Visiting Service supports families who are experiencing difficulties or suffering stress and who have at least one child under the age of five years.

Our aims are:

To increase the confidence and independence of the family by:

Offering support, friendship and practical assistance

Visiting families in their own homes and in their community, where the dignity and identity of each adult and child can be respected and protected

Reassuring parents that difficulties in bringing up children is not unusual and encouraging them to enjoy family life.

Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed. This approach is flexible to take account of different needs.

Encouraging parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing – for the ultimate benefit of their children.

Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships, and to effectively use the support and services available within the community.