At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals by providing companionship and helping them achieve personal goals.
- Company: Join a community-focused organisation dedicated to reducing social isolation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, experience personal growth, and make a real difference in someone's life.
- Why this job: This role is rewarding and impactful, perfect for those wanting to give back and develop personally.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, UK resident for 3+ years, and willing to undergo training and background checks.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 1-2 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months.
Why do we need Community Support Volunteers? There are people in our local communities who require a supportive companion to help them. The benefits of their having regular meetings with a Community Support Volunteer helps to increase their confidence, resilience and independence to tackle their social isolation and achieve specified and agreed goals and objectives.
What would you need to do? Companionship, not practical assistance, is required for this opportunity. Use your local knowledge of community services and groups and spend time listening to and supporting someone to engage with them.
What’s in it for you? By becoming a Community Support Volunteer, you are accepting the opportunity that could mark the turning point in someone’s life. This rewarding role offers an excellent opportunity for personal development by obtaining new skills and experiences as well as a chance to give back to the community.
Criteria:
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Must have lived in the UK for 3+ years
- Commitment of 1-2 hours minimum per week / Flexible
- Minimum commitment of 6 months is required
- This volunteering role is subject to a DBS check.
- Applicants must be willing to go through an induction process with relevant background checks and an enhanced DBS check (This will be done free of charge)
- To regularly visit the individual on a 1:1 basis either in their own home or a community setting.
- To regularly support the individual to achieve agreed positive goals to promote their independence – The role is unique to every individual’s needs and circumstances.
- To provide regular feedback on progress.
- Volunteers must log their volunteering hours monthly and submit expenses where applicable via an online computer system.
- To complete minimum level training e.g. Safeguarding and commit to further training relevant to the role.
Required Qualities:
- Understanding of vulnerability
- It would be an advantage to have an awareness of key issues – alcohol, drug abuse, mental health, etc.
- Ability to use basic ICT systems
- Be able to deal with difficult situations in a professional manner
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to use own initiative
- Respect for equality and diversity
Training: Training will be provided in the form of distance learning or trainer-led. Volunteers must have completed the required training before any activity can be undertaken and may be asked to regularly refresh training where required.
Schedule: All days available for volunteering.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator for a chat or click apply now.
Keep up to date with the latest volunteering opportunities. We’ll notify you when any opportunities become available that we think you will be interested in.
Community Support Volunteers - Burnley employer: Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
Contact Detail:
Lancashire Volunteer Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Support Volunteers - Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with local community services and groups in Burnley. This knowledge will not only help you connect better with the individuals you'll be supporting but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding their needs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage in conversations with current or past volunteers to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information on what to expect and how to approach your role effectively, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your interpersonal skills by participating in community events or workshops. This not only builds your confidence but also allows you to practice active listening and empathy, which are crucial for the Community Support Volunteer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your understanding of vulnerability and related issues like mental health during any informal chats with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. Being knowledgeable about these topics will highlight your readiness for the role and your ability to support those in need.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Support Volunteers - Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Community Support Volunteer. Reflect on how your skills and experiences align with the role's requirements, particularly in providing companionship and support.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experiences in your CV that demonstrate your understanding of vulnerability and your ability to communicate effectively. Include any previous volunteer work or roles that required interpersonal skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your passion for helping others and your commitment to making a difference in the community. Use specific examples to illustrate your understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in need of support.
Prepare for the Induction Process: Be ready to discuss your willingness to undergo the necessary background checks and training during the application process. Show enthusiasm for learning and adapting to the requirements of the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire Volunteer Partnership
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of vulnerability and the importance of companionship. Share any relevant experiences where you've supported someone in need, as this will highlight your ability to connect with individuals facing social isolation.
✨Know the Community Resources
Familiarise yourself with local community services and groups that could benefit the individuals you'll be supporting. Mentioning specific organisations or initiatives during your interview can show your commitment and readiness to engage with the community effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Good communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle difficult situations professionally, as this will reflect your interpersonal skills and ability to maintain a supportive environment.
✨Express Your Commitment
Make sure to convey your willingness to commit to the role for at least six months. Discuss your availability and flexibility, as well as your eagerness to undergo the necessary training and background checks, which shows your dedication to the position.