West Berkshire Action for Refugees has been supporting refugees and asylum seekers since 2015. Our aim is to provide emotional support and companionship to refugees who live in West Berkshire. We have a small team of approximately 12 committed volunteers who befriend individuals and families and assist at a weekly drop in, run by our Case Worker. Volunteers give an hour or so a week of their time. We are seeking a volunteer who will take on the role of co-ordinating our team. The Volunteer Team Leader will be supported by our Case Worker and will report to the chair of trustees. The role involves:
• Arrange and lead the recruitment, training and support of volunteers for drop-in sessions and befriending, as needed
• Arrange ongoing training and support of volunteers for drop-in sessions and befriending, as needed
• Assist the Caseworker to allocate volunteers for drop-in sessions and to become befrienders
• Support the Safeguarding Lead in providing Safeguarding training for drop-in and befriending volunteers
• Arrange occasional volunteer social events to keep all volunteers motivated and engaged with WBAR
About West Berkshire Action for Refugees
West Berkshire Action for Refugees (WBAR) helps refugees, both new arrivals and settled families, as well as asylum seekers, to rebuild their lives by providing English classes, social activities, one to one support and general advice. It is our aim to make people feel safe and welcome in West Berkshire and to encourage local people to welcome refugees and asylum seekers.
What skills do I need?
The Volunteer Team Leader Will need to have the following skills and abilities:
- good organisational skills
- good record-keeping
- good communication skills, responding promptly to messages and phone calls
- respectful, caring nature and non-judgemental
- good listening skills
- reliable
- able to maintain confidentiality.
- knowledge of issues affecting refugees and asylum seekers or willing to learn
When is this role available?
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Details
Volunteers fit in their availability around their personal and work commitments, so there is flexibility for whoever takes on the role. There is a regular drop in on Thursday afternoons (2.00 to 3.30) in Newbury, run by the Case Worker, which a few volunteers attend, although this is not a requirement of the role. An induction and training is provided for all our new volunteers, including guidance from our previous Volunteer Team Leader.
Where does this role take place?
