At a Glance
- Tasks: Facilitate support groups for individuals with eating disorders, fostering a safe and understanding environment.
- Company: Join Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity and make a real difference.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and support while connecting with like-minded volunteers.
- Other info: Flexible online or in-person opportunities available across Scotland.
- Why this job: Help others on their journey to recovery and be part of a compassionate community.
- Qualifications: Good listening skills, empathy, and understanding of mental health issues required.
Looking for a volunteering opportunity? Support Group Facilitator (in person or online) by helping people suffering from an eating disorder and their families to discuss their feelings and concerns, you can help them to look towards a more positive future. If you are a caring and empathetic person who can help those attending to feel less isolated, more understood, cared for, listened to and supported we would value your contribution to our team.
We are a small but growing charity with big dreams and visions. Our aim is to offer in person and online groups in as many localities within Scotland as possible. Eating disorders are on the rise and we need a strong team of volunteers to help us support both the people who are suffering and their families.
We currently have in person groups in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Fife. However, we are launching Perth and Dundee very soon so we need your help. We have online groups at various times throughout the week, meaning you could support us from wherever you live in Scotland.
We are a very supportive team and will provide all training and ongoing support and supervision. We meet quarterly as a volunteer team online and we host two in person events each year.
The role of the Volunteer Peer Group Facilitator is to ensure that everyone attending the group is aware of the Group Guidelines/Rules and to create a safe space to enable group members to share their story.
Volunteers need:
- To be good listeners and have clear communication skills
- To be able to offer support and encouragement in a non-judgemental manner
- To have a good knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with mental health issues, particularly eating disorders. Volunteers who have previously had an eating disorder must have been fully recovered for at least two years before taking on this role
- To be comfortable using and setting up technology for online meetings
- To have good timekeeping skills
- To be confident navigating challenging topics and situations
The facilitator should encourage discussion between group members and only interject if they feel that a group member is being excluded or is breaking any rules or guidelines which could disrupt the group or cause distress. The facilitator has a duty to observe and report on any safeguarding concerns and will act as a time keeper and ensure that everyone feels comfortable and has an opportunity to speak if they want to share anything.
What's in it for you?
- Being part of a supportive, informal and friendly group of fellow volunteers and like-minded people.
- Foundation and ongoing training to develop your skills as a group facilitator and understanding of eating disorders.
- Regular support and supervision.
- Other areas of volunteering e.g. befriending and community ambassadors.
- Wellbeing and in person events.
- Being part of Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity!
Experience required:
- To be good listeners and have clear communication skills
- To be able to offer support and encouragement in a non-judgemental manner
- To have a good knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with mental health issues, particularly eating disorders. Volunteers who have previously had an eating disorder must have been fully recovered for at least two years before taking on this role
- To be comfortable using and setting up technology for online meetings
- To have good timekeeping skills
- To be confident navigating challenging topics and situations
Travel to and from groups will be paid. All volunteers have a google drive with various forms, training, toolkits, templates, agreements and expenses forms to utilise.
Restrictions:
- Minimum age: 18
- Recovery from an Eating Disorder for a minimum of 2 years.
Availability:
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Morning, Afternoon, Evening
Frequency & commitment:
- Facilitation of at least one group per month for 1 year duration.
- 1.5 hours per session.
- Online: sessions are currently running in the evenings for 1 hour, with a preparation call between the 2 facilitators taking place 15 minutes beforehand and a roundup for 15 minutes after the session.
- In person: Volunteers will need to arrive half an hour before the start of the group, and remain up to half an hour after, in order to set and clear up the room and a short debrief.
Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Volunteer Support Group Facilitator for Eating Disorders in Edinburgh employer: Voluntary Sector Gateway
Join our compassionate team at Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity, where you can make a meaningful impact by facilitating support groups for individuals and families affected by eating disorders. We offer comprehensive training, ongoing support, and a friendly work culture that values your contributions, all while providing opportunities for personal growth and community engagement across various locations in Scotland. With flexible online and in-person options, you can help create safe spaces for discussion and healing, all while being part of a dedicated group of like-minded volunteers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Support Group Facilitator for Eating Disorders in Edinburgh
✨Connect with Local Charities
Get in touch with local charities and community centres — they're often looking for volunteers in social work. This not only gets your foot in the door but also helps you build that all-important network in the social work community.
✨Show Up at Community Events
Attend community events, workshops, or local forums focused on social issues. It's a great way to meet people who are already working in social work and can offer insights, advice, or even opportunities at organisations like Voluntary Sector Gateway.
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Check out platforms like VolunteerMatch or local Facebook groups dedicated to volunteering. Many organisations post their volunteer needs there, and it’s a prime way to connect with those who share your passion for social work.
✨Speak Directly to Organisations
Don’t shy away from approaching organisations you admire, like Voluntary Sector Gateway. Pop in for a chat or drop them an email expressing your interest in volunteering — sometimes, it’s the direct approach that stands out!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Support Group Facilitator for Eating Disorders in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:When writing your application, share your enthusiasm for social work. Talk about why you want to volunteer in this field and any personal experiences that have motivated you. It's all about demonstrating your genuine commitment to helping others, as we all know that passion can make a huge difference.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences:Make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences you have, like working with vulnerable populations or strong communication abilities. Mention your ability to handle challenging situations and your empathy—these are key traits in social work, and they should shine through in your application.
Explain Your Availability:Since this is a volunteer role, be transparent about when you can commit. Whether you’re available for a few hours a week or more flexible, let them know your schedule. This helps Voluntary Sector Gateway understand how you might fit into their needs and ensures you’re on the same page from the get-go.
Reflection on Learning Opportunities:In your application, reflect on what you’re hoping to learn from this volunteer experience. Discuss your desire to gain hands-on insight into social work, develop your skills, or understand the community better. This is a great way to show that you’re not just looking to give, but you’re also eager to grow, and that’s something we value at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Voluntary Sector Gateway
✨Showcase Your Compassion
For a social work volunteer role, it's all about demonstrating your empathy and understanding. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences where you’ve helped others or made a positive impact. This can show Voluntary Sector Gateway how you relate to different communities.
✨Know the Key Issues
Familiarise yourself with the current social issues relevant to the community Voluntary Sector Gateway serves. Whether it’s homelessness, mental health, or child welfare, understanding these challenges will not only impress during the interview but can also help you articulate how you can contribute to solutions.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario Questions
Social work often involves handling real-life situations. Expect questions that present you with hypothetical scenarios, asking how you would respond. Practising your answers to these can help us articulate our thought processes and decision-making skills effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As a volunteer, showcasing your eagerness to gain experience is crucial. Mention instances where you've actively sought out learning opportunities, whether through previous roles, workshops or courses related to social work. This highlights your commitment and readiness to grow with Voluntary Sector Gateway.
