At a Glance
- Tasks: Facilitate support groups for individuals with eating disorders, fostering a safe and supportive environment.
- Company: Join Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity and make a real difference.
- Benefits: Gain valuable training, support, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Flexible online and in-person roles available across Scotland.
- Why this job: Help others feel understood and supported while developing your own facilitation skills.
- Qualifications: Empathy, good listening skills, and a minimum of two years recovery from an eating disorder.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
By helping people suffering from an eating disorder and their families to discuss their feelings and concerns, you can help them look towards a more positive future. If you are a caring and empathetic person who can help attendees feel less isolated, more understood, cared for, listened to and supported, we would value your contribution to our team.
Our charity offers in‐person and online groups across Scotland. We currently run groups in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Fife, and are launching Perth and Dundee soon. Online groups run at various times throughout the week, so you can support us from anywhere in Scotland.
Responsibilities- Ensure every participant is aware of the Group Guidelines/Rules and create a safe space for sharing.
- Encourage discussion among group members, intervening only when necessary to maintain a supportive environment.
- Act as a timekeeper for each session.
- Observe and report any safeguarding concerns.
- Ensure all participants feel comfortable and have the opportunity to share, if they wish to do so.
- Good listening and clear communication skills.
- Ability to offer support and encouragement in a non‐judgemental manner.
- Knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with mental health issues, particularly eating disorders.
- Undergone an eating disorder, fully recovered for at least two years, if applicable.
- Comfortable using and setting up technology for online meetings.
- Good time‐keeping skills.
- Confidence navigating challenging topics and situations.
- Part of a supportive, informal and friendly volunteer team.
- Foundation and ongoing training to develop facilitation skills and understanding of eating disorders.
- Regular support and supervision, including quarterly online meetings and two in‐person events each year.
- Opportunities for other volunteering roles, such as befriending and community ambassador.
- Well‐being and in‐person events.
- Part of Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity.
- Minimum age: 18
- Recovery from an eating disorder for a minimum of 2 years.
Travel to and from groups will be paid. All volunteers have access to a Google Drive containing forms, training, toolkits, templates, agreements and expense forms.
AvailabilityMon – Sun Morning, Afternoon, Evening
Frequency & CommitmentFacilitate at least one group per month for a one‐year duration. Sessions: 1.5 hours per session. Online: sessions run in the evenings for 1 hour, with a 15‐minute preparation call between the two facilitators and a 15‐minute wrap‐up afterward. In‐person: volunteers arrive 30 minutes before the start of the group and remain up to 30 minutes after, to set up, clear the room and debrief.
Professional DevelopmentVolunteers aged 18‐25 can claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Support Group Facilitator (in person or online) in London employer: Voluntary Sector Gateway
Join our compassionate team at Scotland's only Eating Disorder charity, where you will play a vital role in supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. We foster a friendly and informal work culture, offering comprehensive training and regular supervision to enhance your facilitation skills while providing meaningful volunteer opportunities across Scotland. With travel expenses covered and a commitment to your well-being, this role not only allows you to make a difference but also supports your personal growth in a nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Group Facilitator (in person or online) in London
✨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 Support Group Facilitator (in person or online) in London
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.
