At a Glance
- Tasks: Support refugee students by providing counselling and guidance to help them integrate and thrive.
- Company: ConnectionHub, a humanitarian organisation dedicated to advancing education for refugees.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact, gain valuable experience, and connect with a diverse network of volunteers.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours, remote work, and a chance to join an international volunteer community.
- Why this job: Transform lives by helping refugees regain hope and rebuild their futures through education.
- Qualifications: Diploma level 4 in counselling and experience working with refugees required.
ConnectionHub exists to advance the education and training of those who have been granted refugee status and asylum seekers and their dependents who need it, to advance them in life and to help them integrate into their host community by:
- Providing equipped learning spaces for beneficiaries to participate in formal and non-formal education.
- Covering fees for training, exams, translation and verification of diplomas and certificates from third countries.
- Providing access to online learning programs and scholarships from our partner institutions.
ConnectionHub operates in the development sector and in the humanitarian field, providing early intervention education and learning opportunities for refugees in urban areas and in camps and reception facilities such as in Lesvos, Greece, with the intention of supporting refugees to meet their learning and integration needs in order to promote independence and social commitment and participation in the labour market.
To tackle the challenges of isolation, displacement and migration, we bring together diverse volunteers: professionals, academics, students, graduates and refugees.
Part‑time Hours: 3‑6 hours per month
Location: Remote
Qualifications and Experience:
- Qualified as a counsellor with a diploma level 4 or above.
- At least 2 years supervised experience providing counselling or 420 hours of guided learning hours.
- Experience working with refugees or people of concern (PoC).
- A registered member of a UK regulating body and adherence to relevant ethical guidelines.
- Second language: Arabic, Farsi, or French desirable.
- Minimum age 25 years.
Person Specification:
- Knowledge and understanding of the needs and the complexity of issues faced by refugees.
- Able to communicate effectively with students and other volunteers.
- Able to establish and maintain appropriate therapeutic relationships.
- Able to motivate self and manage time effectively.
- Basic IT skills.
- Have access to a stable Wi‑Fi connection.
This is the chance to make a huge impact on the lives of refugees and asylum seekers in Greece; your involvement in this programme would be helping students in desperate situations to regain hope, to rebuild confidence, and to reimagine their future. You would join our international network of talented volunteers collaborating on this project to bring educational opportunities to people forced to flee.
Volunteer Counsellor for Refugee Students in City of Westminster employer: ConnectionHub
ConnectionHub is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers. With a strong focus on education and integration, we foster a collaborative and supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages personal growth. As a volunteer counsellor, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to transformative change while working remotely, allowing for flexibility and the chance to connect with a global network of passionate individuals committed to humanitarian efforts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Counsellor for Refugee Students in City of Westminster
✨Connect with Local Charities
Get in touch with local charities and community centres — they're often looking for volunteers in social work. This not only gets your foot in the door but also helps you build that all-important network in the social work community.
✨Show Up at Community Events
Attend community events, workshops, or local forums focused on social issues. It's a great way to meet people who are already working in social work and can offer insights, advice, or even opportunities at organisations like ConnectionHub.
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Check out platforms like VolunteerMatch or local Facebook groups dedicated to volunteering. Many organisations post their volunteer needs there, and it’s a prime way to connect with those who share your passion for social work.
✨Speak Directly to Organisations
Don’t shy away from approaching organisations you admire, like ConnectionHub. Pop in for a chat or drop them an email expressing your interest in volunteering — sometimes, it’s the direct approach that stands out!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Counsellor for Refugee Students in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:When writing your application, share your enthusiasm for social work. Talk about why you want to volunteer in this field and any personal experiences that have motivated you. It's all about demonstrating your genuine commitment to helping others, as we all know that passion can make a huge difference.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences:Make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences you have, like working with vulnerable populations or strong communication abilities. Mention your ability to handle challenging situations and your empathy—these are key traits in social work, and they should shine through in your application.
Explain Your Availability:Since this is a volunteer role, be transparent about when you can commit. Whether you’re available for a few hours a week or more flexible, let them know your schedule. This helps ConnectionHub understand how you might fit into their needs and ensures you’re on the same page from the get-go.
Reflection on Learning Opportunities:In your application, reflect on what you’re hoping to learn from this volunteer experience. Discuss your desire to gain hands-on insight into social work, develop your skills, or understand the community better. This is a great way to show that you’re not just looking to give, but you’re also eager to grow, and that’s something we value at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at ConnectionHub
✨Showcase Your Compassion
For a social work volunteer role, it's all about demonstrating your empathy and understanding. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences where you’ve helped others or made a positive impact. This can show ConnectionHub how you relate to different communities.
✨Know the Key Issues
Familiarise yourself with the current social issues relevant to the community ConnectionHub serves. Whether it’s homelessness, mental health, or child welfare, understanding these challenges will not only impress during the interview but can also help you articulate how you can contribute to solutions.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario Questions
Social work often involves handling real-life situations. Expect questions that present you with hypothetical scenarios, asking how you would respond. Practising your answers to these can help us articulate our thought processes and decision-making skills effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As a volunteer, showcasing your eagerness to gain experience is crucial. Mention instances where you've actively sought out learning opportunities, whether through previous roles, workshops or courses related to social work. This highlights your commitment and readiness to grow with ConnectionHub.
