Birchwood provides essential support and accommodation services for vulnerable people at critical points in their lives. Our services encompass mental health and wellbeing support, homelessness prevention, social inclusion, and community engagement through a comprehensive programme such as counselling, mediation, housing and homelessness support, therapeutic accommodation, employment support, and wellbeing behaviour change activities.
Job Overview:
Birchwood Charity is seeking an enthusiastic and committed Volunteer Co-ordinator to join our team as part of the Mental Health & Wellbeing Service.
The successful candidate will play a crucial role in the ongoing development of our volunteer programmes through recruiting, retaining, supporting, and recognising the contribution of our volunteers.
This role will also strengthen our inclusive engagement programmes with our communities and foster a sense of community and volunteer belonging, ensuring volunteers are valued and recognised for their contributions.
Key Responsibilities
Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination:
- Develop and implement approaches to attract and recruit volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
- Creating and matching volunteers to appropriate roles based on their skills, interests, and availability.
- Work with community members to develop and sustain volunteer peer led approaches to supporting service beneficiaries and communities.
- Responsible for managing and supporting volunteers.
- Organise and facilitate volunteer orientation and training sessions to prepare volunteers for their roles.
- Provide ongoing support and guidance to volunteers, addressing any concerns or issues promptly.
- Promote volunteer opportunities through various channels, including Birchwood social media platforms, community events, local media, and partnerships with local organisations.
- Develop and implement initiatives to boost volunteer engagement and satisfaction, including regular check-ins and feedback sessions.
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and part of the team.
- Plan and execute volunteer appreciation events and recognition programmes to celebrate the contributions of our volunteers.
- Manage and maintain the volunteer database, including contact information, availability, training records, and other relevant details.
- Prepare regular reports on volunteer activities, participation rates, and programme outcomes for review.
- Create and maintain a comprehensive volunteer schedule to ensure adequate coverage for all programmes and events.
- Maintain accurate records of volunteer contributions and achievements for recognition purposes.
- Ensure our volunteer experiences are both inclusive and accessible.
Corporate Partnerships:
- Manage and facilitate partnerships with companies seeking to engage their employees in paid voluntary work at the Birchwood Charity as part of their corporate social responsibility and social value initiatives.
- Develop and maintain relationships with corporate partners, coordinating volunteer schedules, and ensuring that both the needs of the charity and the volunteers are met effectively.
- Organise volunteer orientations and training sessions, oversee project assignments, and provide ongoing support and communication to ensure a positive and impactful experience for all participants.
- Help integrate local company corporate support into the Birchwood mission, enhancing the charity's outreach and impact in the community.
The postholder will also be familiar and build on:
o Inclusive Practices
o Local Control
o Relationship-Driven
o Place-Based Focus
o Inclusivity
General Responsibilities
Maintain clear and consistent communication with volunteers and community members using current platforms and new methods to keep everyone informed and engaged.
Keep accurate records of volunteer activities and progress, providing regular reports to the Mental Health & Wellbeing Development & Improvement Manager.
Work closely with other team members and external partners to achieve community development goals. Foster a collaborative environment where ideas and resources are shared to benefit the community.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience in volunteer coordination, or a related field.
- Experience of developing and growing volunteer peer led approaches in communities.
- Understanding of asset-based approaches to growing our communities.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Passion for social inclusion and community empowerment.
Additional Information:
- This is a full-time position.
- A valid current driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential.
- Background checks will be conducted as part of the hiring process.
