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- Tasks: Support families at home, in hospital, and during outings with fun activities.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to helping families in need.
- Benefits: Get reimbursed for travel expenses while making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of families and children.
- Qualifications: Great communication skills and a warm, friendly attitude.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a chance to develop valuable skills.
Family Support Volunteer – Colchester, Essex
Closing date: 30 January 2026
Salary: Reasonable out of pocket travel expenses
We are looking for volunteers to assist our Essex based family support team supporting families at home, in hospital and in the community.
We are particularly looking for volunteers in the Colchester area.
Main activities
- Accompany family to hospital appointments
- Accompany family on outings
- Participate in craft/play activities with children and families inside and outside the home
- Listening to parents, children and young people
- Provide practical support in the family home, including domestic help, cooking and recreational activities
- Provide respite for the family.
This role could also include some independent working
Experience/Skills
- Ability to build relationships based on excellent communication and active istening skills
- Experience of interacting with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
- Experience of interacting with children and young people
- Ability to work with children and young people with complex health needs
- Flexible and adaptable manner
- Ability to empathise with families in stressful circumstances
- Non Judgemental approach
- Flexible approach with the ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team
- Warm, friendly and a sense of humour
All ages welcome from 18 onwards
Commitment
We are looking for volunteers who would be available to support families either once a week or once a fortnight. Primarily Monday – Friday between the hours of 9am and 5pm. This is flexible and will be arranged between yourself and your line manager.
To enable you to get the most out of your training and volunteering we ask you to commit to volunteer for Rainbow Trust for a minimum of a year.
Please note that we will only process applications from volunteers who are resident in the UK and who have already obtained the relevant immigration permits. We are unable to sponsor Charity Worker Visas.
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Family Support Volunteer - Colchester, Essex employer: Rainbow Trust Children
Contact Detail:
Rainbow Trust Children Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Volunteer - Colchester, Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Rainbow Trust and their values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your approach during interviews and show how you align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current volunteers or staff on social media platforms. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your active listening skills. During any interactions, whether it's an interview or a casual chat, show that you can listen and respond thoughtfully. This is key in a role that involves supporting families.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Volunteer - Colchester, Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about supporting families.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences match what we're looking for. This shows us that you understand the role and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team.
Show Your Empathy: Since this role involves working with families in challenging situations, it’s important to convey your ability to empathise. Share any relevant experiences where you've supported others or demonstrated compassion.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rainbow Trust Children
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Family Support Volunteer. Familiarise yourself with the activities you'll be involved in, like accompanying families to appointments and engaging in play activities. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role requires excellent communication and active listening skills, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully interacted with families or children. Be prepared to discuss how you can build relationships and provide support in stressful situations.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
The ability to adapt is crucial for this position. During the interview, highlight instances where you've had to be flexible and work independently or as part of a team. This will show that you're ready to meet the varying needs of families in different circumstances.
✨Bring Your Warmth and Humour
This role is all about providing emotional support, so don’t shy away from showing your personality. Share stories that reflect your warm, friendly nature and sense of humour. This will help the interviewers see that you can connect with families on a personal level.
