Volunteer Programs Lead - Flexible, Impactful Role in Chester

By joining Vision Support, you will be part of a dedicated team working to improve the lives of people affected by sight loss. You will play an important role in ensuring that individuals receive the right support at the right time and that our services remain accessible, responsive and safe.

Volunteer Coordinator Role

The Volunteer Coordinator will work across all areas of Vision Support, collaborating closely with the Community Engagement Coordinators, the Fundraising Teams, and Senior Management Team. The role involves developing and managing volunteer programs to ensure effective recruitment, training, placement, and support of volunteers.

Volunteer Program Development

• Collaboratively develop volunteer role descriptions in consultation with various teams.
• Creatively advertise volunteer roles through diverse channels to attract suitable candidates.

Recruitment and Onboarding

• Manage the volunteer recruitment process, including processing DBS checks and obtaining references.
• Conduct interviews with prospective volunteers and oversee their onboarding process.
• Identify volunteers' motivations and ensure their expectations are met.

Training and Placement

• Provide necessary training for volunteers to prepare them for their roles.
• Allocate volunteers to appropriate teams and ensure clear communication of their objectives and expectations.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with Community Engagement Coordinators to produce a bi‑monthly newsletter.
• Coordinate with other colleagues in Vision Support for newsletter content and updates.

Representation and Promotion

• Represent Vision Support at meetings and events to promote volunteering opportunities.
• Actively seek opportunities to integrate volunteers into various aspects of the organisation.

Volunteer Support and Reporting

• Ensure all volunteer records and reporting are accurate and up to date.
• Provide ongoing support to volunteers through their line managers.
• Develop a programme of recognition for volunteers.
• Conduct exit interviews with departing volunteers to gather feedback and insights.

Organisational Development

• Identify areas within the organisation where volunteers can contribute effectively.
• Collaborate with team members to determine volunteer needs and create new opportunities.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as requested by your line manager.

It is not possible to detail every task within this job description. The postholder may therefore be required to undertake duties not specifically listed but consistent with the role.

General Information / Postholder Must

• Adhere to Vision Support policies and procedures.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding service users and organisational information.
• Comply with safeguarding, data protection and health & safety requirements.
• Be flexible, as the role may involve duties not specifically listed.
• Be willing to undertake training and development.

Additional Requirements

• Travel may be required.
• Contact with guide dogs may be necessary.
• Subject to Enhanced DBS and satisfactory references.
• Proven experience in volunteer coordination or a related field.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational and administrative abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams.
• Proficiency in managing volunteer databases and reporting systems.
• Familiarity with DBS checks and volunteer recruitment processes.

Personal Attributes

• Enthusiastic and passionate about volunteer engagement.
• Empathetic and supportive approach to working with volunteers.
• Creative and proactive in promoting volunteer opportunities.
• Committed to the values and mission of Vision Support.

About Vision Support

Vision Support is a long‑established charity supporting people living with sight loss across North East Wales, Cheshire and Halton. As we approach our 150th anniversary, we are entering an exciting period of growth and development.

What We Offer

• Flexible working arrangements on request.
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 32 days after 5 years' service (pro rata).
• Pension scheme (if eligible).
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 counselling.
• Access to a mentor/mentee scheme.
• Vision impairment awareness training.
• A full induction with a chance to meet the whole team.
• Regular teambuilding days and social events.
• Opportunities for career development and training.
• A chance to make a real difference.