Refuge Volunteer

About the Role

Would you like to make an impact at a critical moment in a women's journey to a safer life, free from domestic abuse and sexual violence? We are looking for a reliable and organised volunteer to assist our staff team in our Bexley Refuge.

Bexley Refuges provide specialist and safe temporary accommodation for up to six months in the form of  25 units of refuge accommodation across 3 sites for women and their children who are in crisis/risk of harm and have low to medium support needs. Our refuge offers a range of support to help women in this crucial transition, including: tenancy and resettlement support, emotional, practical and financial support, parenting support, trauma-informed support.

We are looking for a compassionate volunteer who can assist the refuge team in the day to day running of the refuge, which will include:

• Helping new residents to assimilate (perhaps take them on a walk and show them where local shops are)
• Co-facilitating and minuting house meetings
• Performing Welfare checks with SU’s
• Assisting with processing of referrals
• Completing Health & Safety Checks at the property
• Assisting to prep and turn over rooms
• Assisting with stock checks and ordering

Who are we looking for?

The ideal volunteer will have an understanding of DVA and the impact, be personable and able to build relationships with service users and willing to learn and develop skills. We are looking for a volunteer who has:

• An understanding of the issues faced by survivors and a desire to build on this.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good administrative and computer skills including proficient use of Zoom/Microsoft Teams, Microsoft packages and Outlook.
• An understanding of professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills and be able to prioritise your workload.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good listening skills and an empathic, non-judgemental approach.
• Willing to get your hands dirty on occasion.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

As part of this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Gain experience and understanding of Violence against Women and Girls.
• Gain an understanding of support work
• Enabling service users to access valuable support that assists in their journey towards safe, independent lives, free from abuse.
• Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
• Play a pivotal role in delivering services.
• Gain hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Work as part of a feminist organisation.

We offer great volunteer induction training, where you will be fully supported to understand and carry put every aspect of the role. Training includes CPD accredited courses, and the opportunity to apply to complete the Tackling and Preventing Domestic Abuse Award (DAPA), which is recognized by the Home Office.