Keeping in Touch (KiT) Volunteer
IHASS digital skills volunteer will provide support and assistance to individuals who wish to learn or improve their skills using new technology
Role Title: Keeping in Touch (KIT) Volunteer Support Worker
Location: Across London
Purpose of the role
Keeping in Touch (KIT) is a telephone support and welfare service for people we support who live in London. KIT volunteers assist people we work with and help with our aim of supporting people to manage their tenancy and avoid a return to homelessness
What you will be doing
In this role, you will be supporting us with the following tasks:
– Make telephone welfare checks and provide tailored support to help clients sustain their tenancy and support them to be part of, and connect with, their local community
– Research information about local community groups, advice/support services, and other resources that can assist the people we support in resolving a problem or query
– Keep written records of the contact and conversation we have with people on an IT system, and ensure notes are well written and can be easily understood by others.
– Inform Thames Reach Staff of urgent concerns where someone may need additional support in person (from a staff member).
– 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 to a minimum of 4 hours 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 our 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 Employment and Skills 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
– Motivation to help people with support needs and who have lived experience of homelessness
– Good verbal and written communication skills
– Ability to listen and take a patient approach
– Ability to build trusting relationships with clients
– A problem-solving attitude
– Willingness to learn and develop within the role
– Motivation to support disadvantaged and vulnerable people
– 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.
Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.