Purpose: We are looking for friendly, outgoing individuals to facilitate our social groups across the region, whether this be supporting existing groups or helping to set up new ones. These groups are a place where blind and partially sighted people can enjoy each other’s company, share experiences and information, try out new activities/sports and provide encouragement to each other.
Location: we have several hubs across Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset and BANES. However, we are particularly in need of support in Kingswood (first Thursday of the Month from 10am to 12pm) and Whitchurch (second Wednesday of the month from 11am to 1pm) at the moment.
What you will be doing?
- Ensuring the space is safe and ready before the group arrives
- Greeting members as they arrive and introducing new members to the group
- In self-catering venues, making tea and coffee for the members
- In a cafe setting, ensuring all members have tea and coffee and working with the cafe staff to ensure the group is supported
- Facilitating conversation amongst the group and referring on to a Sight Loss Advisor where a member requires advice or support in relation to their sight loss
- Feeding back any issues, comments, suggestions or incidents that have occurred during the session
- Where possible, promoting the group within your local area
What skills and experience are needed?
- Good communication skills
- Friendly and approachable
- Punctual and reliable
- Able to work with a diverse range of people
- A willingness to learn about the issues affecting blind and partially sighted people
What will you gain from the role?
- The knowledge that you are making a positive difference to the lives of people living with sight loss
- Experience of working with a variety of people
- A greater understanding of sight loss
- Useful facilitation skills
What support will be given?
- Induction
- Understanding Sight Loss Training
- Expenses
- Supervision and support from the Volunteer Coordinator
- Additional training as appropriate
When will you be needed?
Times and dates vary depending on location.
How often will you be needed?
Variable, depending on the frequency of the group meetings
References
Two references required. These can be from anyone you have known, other than a family member, for over two years
Disclosure and Barring Service Information
In some circumstances, this role requires a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check