Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) Volunteer Advisor

Location: Across London

Purpose of the role

Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) volunteer advisors provide support to vulnerable adults who want to access training, volunteering or employment opportunities. We provide friendly and expert-led support for vulnerable adults of all ages and backgrounds, creating better work opportunities for everyone in our community

What you will be doing

In this role, you will be supporting us with the following tasks:

– Work with clients 1:1 to identify their individual goals

– Support clients in accessing the knowledge and skills required to achieve their
specific goals

– Record client work on our InForm database to ensure efficient joint working
and delivery of the service

– Liaise with external services including prospective employers and training providers
as required

–  Signpost or refer clients to relevant internal services and external agencies.

– Work as part of IAG team and maintain regular communication with clients and
colleagues

– Provide a professional and effective service to clients in line with Thames Reach
policies

When would you be needed and where would you be based

We expect volunteers to commit for 2 days per week for at least six months. Our volunteering hours are Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm.

Once we have received your application, we will meet with you informally and give you more
information on the location and time you will need to commit to the role.

What you can gain from this volunteering role

– Be able to use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others

– Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

– Professional references after 3 months volunteering

– Mentoring and support from out Employment and Skills team

– Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression.

Training and support offered

– A role specific induction and trial shift so that you understand the role well

– Regular support and supervision from the Rapid Response team to discuss how your volunteering is going and what other opportunities and training may be available to you

– Online or face-to-face instructor led training and e-learning modules to prepare you for your voluntary role

– Access to a range of additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and   professional development

– Support from staff and peer support from fellow volunteers

– Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.

What we are looking for

– A friendly personality, good interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and motivation

– Ability to listen and be empathetic to build rapport with clients

– Good verbal and written communication skills

– Willingness to learn and develop within the role

– Motivation to support disadvantaged and vulnerable people

– The physical ability to work on the streets (there can be a lot of walking involved)

– Awareness and understanding of the need for professional boundaries and confidentiality

– To have the ability to follow Health and Safety regulations, Equal Opportunities and Diversity policy.

Minimum age: 18

Are references required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives).

Is there criminal record check required: Yes

How can I apply? Complete our online application form or contact us at volunteer@thamesreach.org.uk.

Apply today