Volunteer Co-ordinator

Job Title: Volunteer Coordinator (Part-Time/Flexible, Voluntary)

Organisation: Community Mind Connect (CMC)

Location: Lancaster, UK (Remote working)

Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per week/month, flexible to suit the individual and organisational needs.

About Community Mind Connect (CMC)

\”At CMC we aim to empower individuals and communities by driving innovative solutions in arts, education, and planet-friendly projects. Community Mind Connect C.I.C. is a catalyst for positive change, connecting communities with cutting-edge ideas to build a more sustainable and vibrant future.\”

Our Approach to Collaboration

At CMC, collaboration is fundamental to how we operate. We are committed to working alongside other local organizations to strengthen our impact and better serve the Lancaster District community. By forging partnerships with like-minded groups, we deliver innovative projects and share resources effectively. Our past collaborations include community art projects with local organizations, and successful wellbeing initiatives driven by community participation. We believe that working together is key to achieving sustainable and meaningful outcomes for the community.

Role Summary

Community Mind Connect is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Volunteer Coordinator to join our team on a voluntary basis. This is a crucial role in supporting our work by ensuring we have a strong and engaged team of volunteers. The Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for all aspects of volunteer management, from recruitment and induction to support and recognition. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about people and community engagement to make a real difference at CMC.

Key Responsibilities

• Volunteer Recruitment: Developing and implementing strategies to attract and recruit volunteers with the skills and enthusiasm needed for various roles within CMC.
• Volunteer Induction and Training: Organising and delivering induction programs for new volunteers, ensuring they understand CMC\’s mission, policies, and their role. Identifying and facilitating any necessary training for specific volunteer roles.
• Volunteer Placement and Matching: Matching volunteers to suitable roles based on their skills, interests, and availability, and ensuring clear role descriptions are in place.
• Volunteer Support and Communication: Acting as a primary point of contact for volunteers, providing ongoing support, guidance, and addressing any concerns. Maintaining regular communication with volunteers to keep them informed and engaged.
• Volunteer Recognition and Appreciation: Developing and implementing strategies to recognise and appreciate the contributions of volunteers.
• Volunteer Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of volunteers, including contact details, skills, hours contributed, and any training undertaken.
• Policy and Procedure Development: Contributing to the development and review of policies and procedures related to volunteer management.
• Liaison with Staff: Working closely with CMC staff to understand their volunteer needs and ensure effective collaboration.
• Promoting Volunteering: Raising awareness of volunteer opportunities at CMC within the local community.

Person Specification

We are looking for an individual who is:

• Passionate about the role of volunteers in community organisations.
• An excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills.
• Highly organised and able to manage their time effectively.
• Empathetic, approachable, and able to build positive relationships.
• Proactive and able to work independently.
• Committed to equality and diversity in volunteering.
• Proficient in basic IT skills.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience in volunteer management, recruitment, or HR.
• Knowledge of volunteer management best practices and relevant legislation.
• Experience in developing and delivering training.
• Familiarity with volunteer management software.
• Experience working in the charity/non-profit sector.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a significant impact on CMC\’s capacity to serve the community.
• The chance to develop valuable skills in volunteer management, leadership, and communication.
• The opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• The satisfaction of knowing you are supporting volunteers who are making a positive difference.

How to Apply

Interested individuals are invited to submit a brief expression of interest outlining their relevant skills and experience and why they are interested in volunteering as a Volunteer Coordinator with Community Mind Connect. Please also include a CV.

Applications should be sent to: thomas@cmindconnect.co.uk

Deadline for Applications: 01/09/25

We particularly encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the Lancaster community.

Requirements

• Commitment to CMC\’s Mission: A strong understanding of and passion for the aims and values of Community Mind Connect.
• Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build rapport and communicate effectively with a diverse range of people, including potential and current volunteers, staff, and external partners.
• Organisational and Time Management Skills: Proven ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple tasks effectively, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Administrative Skills: Proficiency in basic IT skills (email, word processing, spreadsheets) and comfortable with maintaining records and databases.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with others.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and resolve issues that may arise in the volunteer program.
• Enthusiasm and Motivation: A positive and proactive attitude towards volunteer management and engagement.
• Understanding of Confidentiality: Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Experience of Working with Volunteers (or transferable skills): While direct experience is desirable, experience in roles involving recruitment, training, support, or management of people can be transferable.
• Knowledge of Volunteer Best Practices: Understanding of best practices in volunteer management and legal frameworks related to volunteering.
• Familiarity with Volunteer Management Software/Databases: Experience using systems for managing volunteer information and communication.
• Training and Facilitation Skills: Ability to develop and deliver basic training or induction sessions for volunteers.
• Understanding of Safeguarding: Awareness of safeguarding principles and procedures, particularly in relation to working with vulnerable adults and/or children.
• Experience in the Charity/Non-Profit Sector: Familiarity with the operations and challenges of voluntary organisations.
• Local Knowledge: Understanding of the Lancaster community and potential volunteer pool.
• Marketing and Recruitment Skills: Experience in promoting volunteer opportunities and attracting new volunteers.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the Lancaster community. (This is a voluntary position and therefore unpaid. Reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of duties may be reimbursed in accordance with CMC\’s expenses policy.)

About the Company

Community Mind Connect C.I.C. is dedicated to building a more sustainable and vibrant future for the Lancaster district by connecting communities with cutting-edge ideas. We empower individuals and communities through innovative solutions in the arts, education, and planet-friendly projects, acting as a catalyst for positive change.