Volunteer opportunity of the week 18/6/2012

Advice / Information volunteers needed a few hours a week for Reading Voluntary Action (RVA) in RG1

Reading Voluntary Action runs a popular and extensive online directory of news and information for and about the voluntary and community sector in Reading. This is a useful tool for the whole of Reading to find out what is available and what is going on locally. They are looking for volunteers to help them make this complete range of information and advice accessible to visitors to their town centre, drop-in shop (which currently acts as a volunteer centre).

They need enthusiastic, friendly and confident volunteers to help them make their plans successful. The work is a really important part of the role that RVA plays in the voluntary sector and beyond into the community at large. It will give the volunteer an opportunity to help hundreds of local people every year to make a difference in the community.

They operate a 3 hour shift pattern to achieve open hours of 9.30am-5pm and have vacancies for people to work between 1-3 shifts per week, whether on the same or different days. Suitable candidates for this work will be hospitable and friendly, service focused, presentable and have an interest in the local community and charitable groups.

The duties will include a combination of:

• looking after their public space (setting up and tidying)
• running the reception and directing visitors as needed
• advising people about:

• volunteering opportunities
• services on offer in the community
• starting or running a community group
• signposting to more expert sources of help and advice
• sharing experience that you may have
• promoting the local voluntary sector

They will provide on-the-job training on their computers and on the sources of information you will need to use in your advice work with the public. You will report to a named member of their staff for day to day support and feedback.

How to express an interest in volunteering

Please contact the organisation or group direct using the details and instructions below. You should note that often smaller groups may be run by volunteers who may not be able to respond immediately. If you have not heard back within 2 weeks, please contact them and they will investigate on your behalf.

Steve Hendry (Transformation Project Worker)

Tel: 0118 9023 910

E-mail: steve.hendry@rva.org.uk

Please email if possible

When and how much time?

How much time?
A few hours a week

What times and days of the week?
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays (flexible)

More information
They have vacancies during a range of shifts throughout their opening hours.

Where will I be helping?

Reading Voluntary Action (RVA)
8 Cross Street
READING
RG1 1SN

Useful details
Wheelchair accessible
Near public transport

What else do I need to know?

Task type?

Advice / Information

 

Will suit someone like this:

Enjoys variety and change, Prefers a regular schedule, Likes team work, Keen learner, Inventive, Negotiator, Networker, Good sense of humour, Sociable, Patient, Supportive, Communicator, Activist

 

Training offered?

Yes – Induction to organisation and our tools

 

Support given?

Yes – From a named member of the RVA staff

 

Expenses paid?

Yes – Travel

 

Will I need my own transportation?

No

 

Will they do a CRB check?

No

 

Will they ask for references?

Yes

 

Will they interview?

Yes

 

Are they properly insured?

Yes