At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with disabilities in fun, inclusive activities and maintain a safe environment.
- Company: Midland Mencap is a charity dedicated to improving lives for those with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and meet new people while making a difference.
- Why this job: Join a diverse team and help children feel included and have fun!
- Qualifications: Creativity, patience, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn are essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours with weekend sessions; travel expenses covered.
Are you always ready with a smile?
Do you have an interest in working with children?
Who are Midland Mencap?
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.
Purpose of the role?
Children with a learning disability, Autism 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.
Our play schemes and short break services give children and young people with additional needs the chance to make friends and try out a variety of activities.
Our play schemes and short break services give children and young people with additional needs the chance to make friends and try out a variety of activities.
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 child 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 and 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.
When and where do you need me?
Ideally you can attend a minimum of 1 session per week.
When
- We hold weekend sessions (Saturday & Sunday) between 09:30 – 16:00
- Daytime activities during school holidays/half terms
- You do not have to attend every week or stay for the full session
Location
- Weoley Castle Community Centre, Bottetourt Road, Weoley Castle, B29 5TE
What’s in it for me?
As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:
• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of children with learning disabilities and their family carers
• Any training and development that is needed
• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience to add to your CV
• 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
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.
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Children’s Play Scheme Helper (Weoley Castle) – 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 (Weoley Castle) – Volunteer Role Midland Mencap
✨Tip Number 1
Show your enthusiasm for working with children by engaging in community activities or events related to child care. This will not only demonstrate your commitment but also give you practical experience that can be discussed during your interactions with Midland Mencap.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with learning disabilities and Autism. Understanding their challenges and how to support them will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or past volunteers at Midland Mencap. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisation, which can help you tailor your approach when you reach out or attend any informal chats.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your creativity and patience in real-life scenarios. Think of examples where you've successfully engaged with children or managed challenging situations, as these qualities are essential for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Children’s Play Scheme Helper (Weoley Castle) – Volunteer Role Midland Mencap
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand what Midland Mencap is looking for in a Children's Play Scheme Helper. Highlight the key responsibilities and required skills, as these will guide your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your interest in working with children and any relevant experience you have. Include any volunteer work, coursework, or skills that demonstrate your creativity, patience, and communication abilities.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your passion for helping children with learning disabilities. Share specific examples of how you've demonstrated the qualities they are looking for, such as being approachable and reliable.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you download and complete the volunteering application form as instructed. Double-check that all sections are filled out accurately before emailing it to the provided address. Attention to detail is key!
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, especially those with learning disabilities or additional needs. Share any relevant experiences you have, whether through volunteering, babysitting, or other roles that demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm.
✨Demonstrate Your Creativity
Since the role involves facilitating fun and inclusive activities, be prepared to discuss your creative ideas for engaging children. Think of a few activities you could suggest during the interview that would be suitable for different age groups and abilities.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Good communication is key when working with children and their families. Be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially in situations that required patience and understanding.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Inclusivity
This role requires working as part of a diverse team. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others, particularly in environments that celebrate inclusivity and acceptance. This will show that you can contribute positively to the team dynamic.