At a Glance
- Tasks: Support victims of domestic abuse with practical and emotional assistance.
- Company: Join Refuge, a leading charity dedicated to helping women and children.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training provided, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a compassionate team making a positive impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Empathy, kindness, and a commitment to equality and inclusion.
Location: Lambeth, London – Gaia Centre (Lambeth, London).
Salary: Not applicable as this is a voluntary role.
Contract type: Voluntary – 4 hours per week (days to be discussed).
We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support.
This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Client Support Volunteer to provide additional practical and emotional support to victims and survivors who are impacted or are experiencing domestic abuse and any other strands of Violence Against Women Girls (VAWG) and are accessing specialist support provided by the Gaia team.
Responsibilities:- Assisting clients with locating and completing applications for relevant grants, services, courses, jobs etc., providing follow‑up support where necessary.
- Accompanying clients to appointments for accommodation, medical appointments or job interviews etc.
- Recognising when it is necessary to take steps to safeguard adults and children, escalating the situation swiftly and appropriately to the line manager, Community Engagement Lead.
- Encouraging clients to research activities that interest them in the local area to increase their engagement in the community.
- Welcoming clients to group sessions and helping them to navigate their way safely to the correct location.
- Participating in celebrations and events held by our service, like International Women’s Day.
- Providing some administrative support when required e.g. taking calls and messages; updating client contact details; sharing information about the service with professionals and clients.
- Ensuring client records are updated accurately and that the security of sensitive information is maintained.
This is to protect our clients and ensure Refuge remains GDPR compliant.
Training: You will be required to attend 3 days of training on the 14th, 15th and 16th of September from 10am-4pm each day (non‑negotiable).
Benefits: Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff.
Client Support Volunteer employer: Refuge
Refuge is an exceptional employer located in Lambeth, London, dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of women and children affected by domestic abuse. As a Client Support Volunteer, you will be part of a compassionate team that values equality, diversity, and inclusion, while also offering extensive training and opportunities for personal growth. The supportive work culture encourages community engagement and celebrates achievements, making it a fulfilling environment for those looking to contribute meaningfully.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Client Support Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Refuge and the Gaia Centre, so you can chat about their values and mission during your interview. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to make a positive impact.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your listening skills! As a Client Support Volunteer, empathy is key. Think of examples from your past where you’ve helped others, and be ready to share those stories to demonstrate your understanding.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current volunteers or staff at Refuge on social media. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and know how to follow instructions – both important for this role!
We think you need these skills to ace Client Support Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and why you’re passionate about supporting victims and survivors.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Client Support Volunteer role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in providing support or working with vulnerable groups, as this will show us you understand what we're all about.
Show Your Empathy:Since we’re looking for kind and empathic people, make sure to include examples of how you've demonstrated these qualities in your past roles. This will help us see that you’re a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Refuge
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand what being a Client Support Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around providing emotional support and assisting clients with applications. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role during the interview.
✨Show Your Empathy
Since this role requires kindness and empathy, think of examples from your past experiences where you've supported someone in need. Be ready to share these stories to showcase your ability to connect with clients and provide the emotional support they require.
✨Research Refuge and VAWG
Take some time to learn about Refuge and the issues surrounding Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). Understanding the organisation's mission and values will not only impress your interviewers but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions prepared to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, how success is measured in the role, or opportunities for further involvement. It shows that you're engaged and serious about making a positive impact.
