At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults in their recovery journey and co-facilitate engaging group activities.
- Company: Way Through Northumberland, a public health service dedicated to recovery.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Other info: Inclusive environment welcoming all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and help others while developing your own skills.
- Qualifications: Commitment, good communication skills, and a genuine interest in recovery.
Way Through Northumberland Adult Recovery Service is a public health commissioned service, supporting adults in creating behaviour change regarding substance misuse and lifestyles linked to substance use. Are you looking for a volunteer role where you can share your knowledge of recovery to help others? Can you commit to a regular weekly attendance to support our academy groups? (between 3 and 15 hours per week to be agreed based on volunteer availability).
Responsibilities:
- Helping on our reception & welcome desk.
- Supporting existing service users in their recovery journey.
- Offering peer support to clients.
- Supporting the engagement of hard‑to‑reach groups.
- Raising awareness of the Service and other support services.
- Co‑facilitating and supporting Open Access Recovery Groups.
- Co‑production of new recovery groups.
- Supporting and co‑production of EDI and Wellbeing activities.
- Act as role models for recovery.
- Promote the benefits of treatment and recovery to new and potential service users.
- Engage clients into the recovery hubs and the Recovery Academies (RAD).
- Inform clients of the recovery community.
- Assist workers with client appointments where appropriate.
- Co‑facilitate group work where appropriate.
- Develop resources e.g. posters, advertising activities.
- Establish therapeutic relationships with clients.
- Refer and signpost to specialist agencies when required by workers.
- Share own skills/experience.
Essential Criteria:
- Professional.
- Honest and committed.
- Good time keeping, able to commit to regular scheduled attendance.
- Able to attend supervision and training.
- Able to work as part of a team, on own initiative and to instruction.
- Understand Way Through – information is available on our website and you can call a specific project to make enquiries.
- Genuine interest in being part of the mission and vision of Way Through.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries, adhere to Way Through policies, engage in supervision and complete relevant training.
Desirable Criteria:
- Calm natured.
- Excellent verbal communication skills.
- Non‑judgemental.
- Understanding and knowledge of harms of substance use.
Benefits:
- Discounts from various schemes.
- Training and personal development.
- A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.
- Free induction and role‑specific training.
- Support from experienced staff and regular supervision.
- Opportunities to meet new people and develop confidence.
- Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses.
- Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development.
Inclusion and Accessibility:
Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation. If you need adjustments or support to apply, please email recruitmentteam@waythrough.org.uk.
How to Apply:
If you’re viewing this advert on an external platform such as Indeed, please click “Apply via company website” to view the full job description and submit your application. Please note that while this role has a stated closing date, we reserve the right to close the advert early should we receive a high number of applications.
Lived Experience Recovery Volunteer in Blyth employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
Way Through Northumberland Adult Recovery Service is an exceptional employer that values the contributions of its volunteers, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Volunteers can expect comprehensive training, personal development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals on their recovery journey. Located in a community-focused environment, this role provides a unique opportunity to engage with diverse groups while receiving guidance from experienced staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lived Experience Recovery Volunteer in Blyth
✨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 Dormont Manufacturing Co.
✨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 Dormont Manufacturing Co. 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 Lived Experience Recovery Volunteer in Blyth
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 Dormont Manufacturing Co 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨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 Dormont Manufacturing Co how you relate to different communities.
✨Know the Key Issues
Familiarise yourself with the current social issues relevant to the community Dormont Manufacturing Co 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co.