At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with disabilities in fun, inclusive activities and help create a welcoming environment.
- Company: Midland Mencap, a charity dedicated to improving lives for those with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training opportunities, and a reference for your CV.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while having fun and meeting new people.
- Qualifications: Creativity, patience, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Flexible weekend and holiday sessions available; perfect for students seeking practical experience.
Are you always ready with a smile? Do you have an interest in working with children? Midland Mencap is a charity which works and campaigns for accessible and inclusive services and a better quality of life for everyone with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs. Volunteering with Midland Mencap is your opportunity to help us achieve our vision.
Children with a learning disability or additional needs are often isolated and excluded from mainstream leisure and social activities. We believe that EVERYONE has the right to have fun and feel safe. From day‑time school holiday provision, weekend activities and Outdoor Adventure programmes! Midland Mencap’s extensive service helps young people make friends, have fun and grow in their social and emotional wellbeing. By volunteering just a few hours at our activity sessions, you can help us to deliver high quality, person‑centred social & recreational activities and support to children with disabilities, young people and their families.
What would I be doing?
- Supporting children and young people with disabilities to take part in sessions.
- Encouraging children to get involved and have fun.
- Helping to facilitate a range of creative and fun, inclusive activities.
- Helping to set up equipment and tidy away at the end of the session.
- Helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.
This role might suit someone considering a career in support or care services and looking for practical experience as part of a school/ college/ university course.
What do I need?
- Creativity and patience
- Willingness to get involved and play
- Being approachable and friendly
- Good communication skills
- Accepting of others who might be different to you
- The ability to work as part of a diverse team
- A willingness to learn and work within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap
- Honesty, integrity and trustworthy
- Good time management skills, reliability
An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.
What’s in it for me?
- The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of children with learning disabilities
- An induction and settling in period
- Any training and development that is needed – including access to relevant digital training courses
- Add your volunteering activity to your CV, and also get a reference
- The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team
- Support within your role
- Any out‑of‑pocket travel expenses
- Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution
When and where do you need me?
We hold weekend sessions (Saturday & Sunday) between 09.30 – 16.00. We also offer daytime sessions in the school holidays.
Location: Midland Mencap, Logan Road, Coventry CV1 1AG.
What to do if you’re interested?
Download and complete the Volunteering application form here. Email the completed application form to volunteering@midlandmencap.org.uk. For more information or an informal chat, call 0121 442 2944 and speak to someone about how volunteering could work for you.
Children’s Play Scheme Helper (Coventry) – Volunteer Role Midland Mencap employer: Midland Mencap
Contact Detail:
Midland Mencap Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Children’s Play Scheme Helper (Coventry) – Volunteer Role Midland Mencap
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Midland Mencap and their mission. Understanding their values will help you connect better during your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers on social media or local community groups. They can share insights about their experiences and might even give you a heads-up on what to expect during your volunteering journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your skills! Think about how your creativity, patience, and communication skills can shine through in your interactions. Prepare some examples of how you've used these skills in the past to engage with children or in team settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to get involved with Midland Mencap's amazing work!
We think you need these skills to ace Children’s Play Scheme Helper (Coventry) – Volunteer Role Midland Mencap
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through in your application. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences or interests that highlight this.
Be Yourself: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through! We’re looking for friendly and approachable volunteers, so make sure your application reflects who you are. A little bit of humour can go a long way!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match what we’re looking for. Highlight your creativity, patience, and communication skills, as these are key for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy! Just download the application form, fill it out, and send it over to us. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Midland Mencap
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children during the interview. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's babysitting, volunteering, or even just playing with younger siblings. This will show that you’re not just looking for any role, but that you truly care about making a difference in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Your Creativity
Since the role involves facilitating fun and inclusive activities, think of a few creative ideas you could bring to the table. Whether it’s a game, craft, or outdoor activity, having specific examples ready will highlight your ability to engage children and make the sessions enjoyable.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills
This role requires working as part of a diverse team, so be prepared to discuss your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past, and highlight your good communication skills, especially when interacting with children and their families.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Values
Midland Mencap values honesty, integrity, and inclusivity. Be prepared to talk about why these values are important to you and how you embody them in your daily life. This will help demonstrate that you align with their mission and are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all children.