Post: Group Activity Volunteer: Employability Project
Location: Dumfries
Salary: Unpaid
Hours: To be agreed with the coordinator
Number of vacancies: 5

How to apply

 Apply by completing the online enquiry form here.

We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

If you consider yourself to have a disability, please complete the relevant section within the application pack to inform us of any arrangements that we may make to the interview process.

The Employability Project supports people affected by mental illness to reach their career goals by provide person centred support designed to build skills and confidence. We run a series of group sessions aimed at creating an environment where people can feel supported with their mental health and career development

As a volunteer in the Employability Project, you will be supporting people affected by mental ill-health to reach their career goals by organising and running a group aimed at developing confidence and skills. You will be supported by the staff team who will support with the development and engagement of groups in the project. Some of the groups that we run include photography and history

What you will be doing:

• Work alongside staff to plan, organise and facilitate group activities focused on skill development
• Create and maintain a safe and welcoming atmosphere
• Encourage and foster meaningful involvement and peer support
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of activities, making adjustments as needed
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the charity’s policies and procedures

The skills you need:

• A passion for supporting people affected by mental-ill health
• Experience of providing support or lived experience of support services
• The ability to work alongside staff to run and facilitate support groups
• Knowledge of mental health
• Groupwork skills or lived experience of groups
• An empathetic and compassionate attitude

Will travel costs be reimbursed?

All reasonable expenses for volunteers will be reimbursed by Change Mental Health, including travel expenses.

Do I need a PVG to volunteer?

All volunteers working in our services are required to join the PVG scheme. PVG applications are free for volunteers.

Will I receive training?

Our service and events volunteers will receive training to help support our service users or fundraising events. You will also be supported in your personal development by your manager.

What if I can’t find an opportunity that suits me?

Get in touch. If there isn’t an opportunity that you are able to get involved in fill out the enquiry form and a member of our team will try to match you with an opportunity that works for you.

How much time do I need to give?

There are so many ways to get involved. You can spend a few hours a week supporting one of our groups or give a smaller commitment by supporting Change Mental Health’s events on social media. We want to be flexible to suit your needs.