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- Tasks: Support individuals in making informed decisions about their health and social care.
- Company: Join Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity transforming mental health support in England.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and enjoy flexible volunteering from home.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills and network.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills, empathy, and knowledge of health and social care are essential.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are core values; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
This is a voluntary vacancy that will close in 2 months at 23:59 BST.
Your role
Amazing, giving, and inspiring are a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers. Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.
About the role
We are looking for Volunteer Advocates to support our Advocacy Service in the Boroughs of Wandsworth and Richmond. You will be based at home, but this role could also involve some travel within the Wandsworth and Richmond boroughs. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 7 hours per week to volunteering. You will be able to confirm your availability on your application, and this will be discussed with you during your discussion with the volunteer manager. You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role.
About the service
Wandsworth & Richmond Advocacy Services offers a range of statutory and non-statutory advocacy services. As a volunteer, you will be supporting our delivery of community advocacy for people who are 18+ and live in Wandsworth & Richmond Boroughs. You will be supporting a range of people, including those with learning, physical, and sensory disabilities as well as mental illness, who need support with a health and social care issue and are not eligible for a statutory service. We do not support people with everyday decisions, but when important decisions are being made that could affect their quality of life, independence, or have long-term consequences.
What you will be doing as a Volunteer Advocate
- You will hold a small caseload supporting people to do a range of issues.
- You will offer support on a short-term basis and focus on a specific issue.
- You will support people by enabling them to find information, understand their rights and choices, have a voice, and make their own informed decisions.
- You may be supporting people in making difficult or important decisions that may impact their quality of life and independence, and have long-term consequences.
- You will provide peer advocacy and help with the delivery of self-advocacy workshops.
What will make you a great fit for this role?
- You will have good communication skills.
- You will possess the ability to empathise.
- You will have the motivation to secure the rights of people from all backgrounds.
- You will have knowledge of, or experience of working within, health and social care.
- You will have a good knowledge of IT skills for recording information and using email.
- You will be flexible and able to volunteer during the working week.
Why volunteer with Rethink?
We understand that people volunteer for many different reasons and whatever your reason is for volunteering we’ll be there to support you every step of the way. You will receive an induction to ensure you feel confident in your role as well as regular supervision. Other benefits of volunteering include:
“I was able to gain valuable experience in the mental health field which has helped me to kick-start my career. Overall, the befriending experience is definitely one I would recommend. It has helped me to expand on skills, to make a difference in people’s lives, and has opened up opportunities for me to progress in my career.”
“I am a lived experienced volunteer for Rethink. The thing I find amazing is that my lived experience which includes addiction, prison, and mental health all of which helped me get the role which makes me feel that all the suffering I’ve gone through has meant something and that makes me feel I’m respected. The reason I do this role is every time I help someone, I feel I’m one step away from the person I was to the person I’m meant to be, I’m very grateful to Rethink as they helped me to become the best version of myself.”
Please be mindful that we may need to close adverts early if we receive a high volume of applications, we therefore encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Volunteer Advocate employer: Mentalhealth UK
Contact Detail:
Mentalhealth UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Advocate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Rethink Mental Illness and their mission. Understanding their values and the specific needs of the communities they serve will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former volunteers at Rethink. They can provide insights into the role and share their experiences, which can be invaluable in preparing for your discussions with the volunteer manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how your background or experiences can contribute to creating a more inclusive environment within the organisation, as this is a key value for Rethink.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your availability clearly. Since the role requires a minimum of 7 hours per week, being upfront about your schedule will show your reliability and willingness to commit to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Advocate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Volunteer Advocate position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what Rethink Mental Illness is looking for.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that reflects your passion for mental health advocacy. Share any relevant experiences, such as volunteering or working in health and social care, and explain why you want to support individuals in Wandsworth and Richmond.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to emphasise your communication skills, empathy, and IT proficiency in your CV and cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you've used these skills in past roles or situations to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which are important qualities for a Volunteer Advocate.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mentalhealth UK
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
Make sure to express your genuine passion for advocacy and helping others during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting individuals with mental health issues, as this will resonate well with the values of Rethink Mental Illness.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Communication Skills
Since the role requires good communication and empathy, prepare examples that showcase these skills. Think about situations where you successfully communicated with someone in need or helped them navigate a difficult decision, as this will illustrate your suitability for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Issues
Research common challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues and disabilities. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your dedication to understanding the needs of those you will be advocating for.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask the interviewer about the role and the organisation. This demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm for the position, as well as your desire to understand how you can contribute to their mission of supporting individuals affected by mental illness.
