Volunteering

Volunteers make a big difference to the trainees within each of our projects by assisting people with learning disabilities to learn and develop new skills through meaningful activities.

Volunteering is highly rewarding. Not only will you be helping others, you’ll meet some great people, make new friends, develop your skills too and enjoy new experiences.

We have an exciting range of volunteering opportunities available, with flexibility to volunteer from one session a month through to multiple sessions a week, it can fit around your lifestyle.

Benefits of volunteering

Volunteering with us is a great way to meet people and to make a positive difference to the lives of the people the foundation supports. There are many benefits including:

  • Gaining new skills or developing your existing ones.

  • The chance to try out something new.

  • Doing things that are useful and rewarding.

  • A sense of achievement having done things that are worthwhile.

  • Giving to others in the local community.

  • Boosting your confidence and self-esteem.

  • Meeting others and building new friendships.

  • Sharing experiences with your partner or friend by volunteering together.

How do I become a volunteer?

If you would like to find out more about getting involved, please contact us. We have a Volunteer Co-Ordinator who will walk you through the process. Please call 07572 715382 or email us at volunteer@theemilyjordanfoundation.org.uk

Before you join us as a volunteer you will be asked to complete a short application form, have an informal interview, provide referees for us to contact and complete a DBS check

New volunteers are given an induction programme and training to carry out their roles.

- You could also consider having some fun fundraising for us instead if you can't find a volunteering opportunity that suits you at this time.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone can volunteer. We value diversity and encourage volunteers from all sections of the community. We receive community referrals from the NHS / Social Care and the Department of Work and Pensions to support people in their re-ablement of getting back into work.

All you need is the ability to:

  • Communicate and relate well with others.

  • Work in a non-discriminatory way.

  • Maintain confidentiality in line with our policies and procedures.

Driving is age restricted to those over 25.


Volunteer roles available

As a volunteer, you may be supervising, assisting or carrying out tasks that include:

  • Shop counter sales

  • Horticulture - Growing plants and flower bed maintenance in the Senses garden and Butterfly garden

  • Craft, pottery, art and painting

  • Driving, for example to collect donations and deliver purchases

  • Woodwork to create garden furniture and bespoke items

  • Bike renovations and repairs

  • Re-cycling

  • Ground Maintenance projects, for example, on commercial estates and open spaces

  • Fundraising, promotions and photography

Volunteer Testimonials

 

“I’ve gained so much self-confidence, I really feel better off.”

— L

 

“I came along to Spokes because I wanted to experience something new and to broaden my knowledge, which is much better now. I think it could help me to get a job.”

— J

“I was almost frightened to leave the house when I started, I had no confidence and now I can go shopping and I talk to people that I haven’t met before..”

— H

 

“I’ve made new friends and I’ve enjoyed being at Twigs.”

— I

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Would you like to fundraise?

If you are unable to volunteer but would still like to support us, please consider fundraising. There are plenty of fun, wacky and exciting ways to raise money and donations are always gratefully received.