engage voluntary opportunities march 2010
Post on 01-Mar-2016
214 Views
Preview:
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
Engage West Somerset
Volunteer Centre Volunteering Opportunities
24th edition 2010 (last updated March 2010)
Can we help you fit in somewhere?
2
AGE CONCERN SOMERSET need Advocacy volunteers
who can help if support is needed to tackle a problem, or
someone is needed to act or speak on behalf of a vulnerable
adult so that opinions are heard. Volunteers help with the
completion of forms, to check entitlements to welfare bene-
fits. You need to have good communications skills, both writ-
ten and verbal and the patience to deal with older people.
Full training and induction provided, plus ongoing support,
and all expenses paid. 18+
AGE CONCERN SOMERSET require volunteers for their
Befriending Service, where they will visit older people ei-
ther in their homes or nursing homes once a week for app. 1
hour, to establish friendships and alleviate feelings of isola-
tion and offer a lifeline to a vulnerable person. 18+
AGE CONCERN want older volunteers to become peer men-
tors and train to become Flexercise Leaders. This is a chair
based activity session and further training may be available.
The project is called Fit as a Fiddle and is aimed at improv-
ing physical and mental health and nutrition in older people,
enhancing their well-being. No age limit
AGE CONCERN SOMERSET need people to offer a toe nail
AGE CONCERN SOMERSET are in need of Safe and Se-
cure Technician volunteers who are able to do basic DIY
skills, and are happy to meet people in their own home and
make them safe and secure and less vulnerable. All ex-
penses paid, support & training given. Very rewarding. 18+
3
BARNARDOS require Outreach Project volunteers, who
aim to reach families who have difficulty in accessing some
services, or who may need help in coping with a crisis. Vol-
unteers will befriend them, give support with the day to
day running of the family. This could involve helping out,
doing some shopping or driving them to the centre. Very
rewarding role. Full training & support given. 18+
BARNARDOS want Volunteer Drivers who will drive fami-
lies and young children to local projects/children centres
from the families home address and return them later. You
will be enabling them to access local projects/children cen-
tres and having fun, which they would otherwise be unable
to do. Very rewarding role. 18+
cutting service for the elderly, either in their own homes
or a clinic, and to help them feel at ease with their feet.
Full training will be given and all expenses paid. 18+
BARNARDOS want Children Centre volunteers to help set
up the rooms where sessions are held, tidy toys up after,
play with the children, give support to the parents and
make refreshments. Situated in Norton Fitzwarren. 16+
BARNARDOS need Play Ranger/Adult Volunteers Mon-
day to Fridays between 4-6 pm in 11 different locations, to
run activities for children 5 and above. You will play a key
role with the team, provide support and advice to children,
young people and families outside play ranger sessions. This
is an exciting opportunity. Training given. 16+
4
BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION SHOP want Stock
preparation volunteers for the mornings, to sort donated
items, prepare them for sale, tagging and steaming. Be part
of a great team and gain experience, training & support
given. Also calling on all book lovers to sort out their book
department. Somebody with book knowledge. 16+
BRITISH RED CROSS also want volunteers to help out in
their Medical Loan depot in Minehead for an hour a day,
where they provide equipment on short term loan to enable
people to lead a more independent life after an illness or
hospital stay. 16+
BLUE VENTURES are in search for marine conservation
volunteers who can travel to Madagascar for a minimum of 3
weeks. Blue ventures aim to manage and conserve local ma-
rine resources for the future. You will stay in beach cabins
close to the village, learn to fish, scuba dive, join in village
life, sail and much more. You will need to pay for your travel
and stay, but experience the trip of a life time. You will gain
marine science and dive training in return. 18+
BRITISH RED CROSS offer a friendly door to door assis-
tance for people who cannot get about easily. Will involve
driving people to an appointment or visit, or even accompany-
ing them on a public transport journey. 17+
BRITISH RED CROSS require help in their Retail shop in
Minehead. This involves sorting, pricing, displaying goods,
cash transactions and assisting customers. 15 +
5
BRITISH RED CROSS want enthusiastic and committed
people to recruit and induct new volunteers, by organising
and running recruitment days across the county. All ex-
penses paid. 17+
BRITISH RED CROSS is looking for volunteers to offer a
Home from Hospital service, helping people in their own
home following an illness or hospital stay. May include hos-
pital pick-ups, shopping, prescription collection and keeping
them company for a couple of hours. 18+
CATS PROTECTION MINEHEAD BRANCH require vari-
ous people to join their group. Volunteers are now needed
to deliver and put up posters, help in the kitchen at cof-
fee mornings and sales, help behind stalls, doing raffles,
etc. They also need an experienced handler to join their
welfare team and people outgoing enough to approach local
shops etc for raffle prizes. Some age limits apply
CANCER RESEARCH SHOP are looking for people to join
their happy group of volunteers, to process goods and as-
sist the public with their purchases, raising money for can-
cer research and having fun and making new friends. 16+
CINNAMON TRUST need volunteers to help elderly or
terminally ill people and their pets, by helping with the day
to day care of the pets, dog walking, fostering or trans-
portation to vets. You can help to keep the pets and own-
ers together. Give as little or as much time as you wish.
Very rewarding opportunity. 16+
6
CONQUEST CENTRE FOR THE DISABLED require volun-
teers to help with the horses, leading and assisting rid-
ers. No experience is needed as full training will be given.
Runs during term time only. No age restrictions.
DULVERTON’S CHILDREN CENTRE are looking for
friendly volunteers who love to read stories and enjoy play-
ing games and interacting with children aged 0-5 years. Or
you might have a skill like painting, that you could teach the
children. No age limit
DULVERTON’S Guildhall Heritage and Art Centre want
friendly volunteers who can spare as little or as much time
to keep their visitor centre open through the season. You
could help with one of the exhibition, the upkeep of the cen-
tre and/or behind the till of their small but lovely gift shop
area. No experience or special skills needed, training and
support where needed. Come and join our friendly team. No
age restrictions
DUNSTER CASTLE seek friendly and enthusiastic Garden-
ers/Garden Guides who enjoy the beautiful gardens and
help visitors to do so too. Be part of a team that creates a
new project and finishes it for all to enjoy. 15+
DUNSTER CASTLE (National Trust) want to attract volun-
teers of all ages and backgrounds to help with a variety of
opportunities. Why not see what they need, for example you
can help as a room steward (full training given) or with
selling vital raffle tickets, help in the shop or why not see
7
If you could be the next Volunteer Recruiter or Volun-
teer Administrator, working with volunteers and castle
staff. Varied age limits, come and find out more
ENGAGE FURNITURE PROJECT want furniture van
drivers who are happy to go out with a drivers mate, to
collect and deliver 2nd hand furniture all over West Som-
erset. You must be physically fit, be able to lift small to
medium sized items of furniture and have a clean driving
licence. You will help to provide a vital and important ser-
vice to our community and help the environment. Basic pa-
perwork to be completed, must be a team player. 18+
ENGAGE FURNITURE PROJECT also want furniture
drivers mates, who will go out on the van and collect and
deliver unwanted, good quality furniture to the community.
You too must be physically fit and like to be part of a
team. 16+
DUNSTER CASTLE are looking for Tour Guides for a va-
riety of tours throughout the year, including basement and
late night Halloween tours. Be part of their active educa-
tion team. Or why not help as an Event volunteer who are
involved in a variety of events, from helping organising to
dressing up. 15+
ENGAGE are looking for Trustees who can help set the
strategic direction and to guide the work of the paid staff
& volunteers who operate the CVS, volunteer centre and
furniture project. 18+
8
ENGAGE want furniture showroom sales person to greet
people when they come through the door and show them
round the furniture store. They also like you to complete ba-
sic paperwork, i.e. receipts, delivery notes, etc. On top of
that, they would need you to tidy the store, move small
items around, tidy up and polish and generally look after the
items. No experience needed as full training can be given.
Would suit outgoing and friendly person who loves to meet
people and is physically fit. 16+
ENGAGE need social car drivers to join their essential so-
cial car scheme, where you will be taking passengers to hos-
pital, doctors appointment, social visits or shopping. You
choose the journeys you want to do. Mileage expenses paid.
Very rewarding and you choose your trips around your free
time. 17+
EXMOOR SEARCH & RESCUE seek Team Members, who
after a thorough training programme, will be assisting at the
behest of the police in rescuing vulnerable people in any
weather, anywhere in Exmoor. Need to be physically fit, a
team player and have your own transport. 18+ they also want
Team Supporters who help in any way they can, from fund-
raising, administration, to vehicle maintenance and acting as
casualties at exercises, give as much or little time as possi-
ble. 18+
EXMOOR CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS need Dunster
Countryside Team members (Crown Estate) to help the
rangers on the last Thursday of the month, with conserva-
9
tion work, such as clearing views and invasive plants from
woodlands and moorlands. If you are reasonably fit and like
the outdoors, come and join them. Training given. No age
limit
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL also require weekend centre
assistant, who can help with various duties at Nettlecombe
Court Field Study Centre, including , shop work, assisting
with research work and much more. Help is needed on Sat-
urday and Sundays, lunch and lifts will be provided. Very
interesting role that can be shared. 16+
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL need assistant leaders for
their monthly Nature club, which runs on a Saturday once a
month, and is for children aged 7-12 yrs old. Help prepare
the sessions and assist during the club. Lift provided. 16+
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL need help to look after young
children in a school, giving leaders support and also a
chance to help prepare the sessions. They want creature
rangers to assist with these sessions in after school clubs,
so will run in the afternoon. 16+
GOLDEN GORSE a residential home for 8 residents with
special or physical needs in Minehead, want volunteers to
develop experience and skills by working with and joining
the residents in different activities and/or befriending
them on a 1:1 basis or small group environment. You will
work as part of a team and have the opportunity to get
trained. A car is also available to take residents out if you
10
HOST UK want volunteer hosts, who can offer international
students over 18 years old, visits a British home and there-
fore further international understanding and friendship.
Mainly weekends or holidays. All Expenses paid. Make new
friendships and learn about other countries and cultures 18+
you can drive. This is a very enjoyable and rewarding oppor-
tunity. 18+
HOME-START WEST SOMERSET the UK’s leading family
support charity is asking you to volunteer as Trustees, to
help guide and oversee their support service. They want peo-
ple with all kinds of life experiences, finance, the law or
business management. Very little time required and so re-
warding. 18+
HOME-START WS need volunteers with parenting skills
to support families in their own homes offering practical
help and friendship to families with young children, for 3 to
4 hours once a week. Full Training and support will be given.
You could make a difference to a young family. 18+
LEUKAEMIA CARE are looking for fundraising volunteers.
You can choose your level of commitment, from local fund-
JOINT EDUCATION TRUST want BPVC ambassadors to
help vulnerable children achieve their potential. You will
work from home and with your local authorities, need good
interpersonal and communication skills and be part of an ex-
citing project. Full training & support given. 18+
11
LEUKAEMIA CARE require care volunteers, who provide
emotional support to those affected by Leukaemia and
similar. You will be a listening ear, and get them through
difficult times. Support can be by phone and also face to
face at their home or hospital. Care volunteers also raise
awareness and provide information to patients, carers and
medical professionals. Must have experience of cancer.
This is a very rewarding opportunity. Expenses paid and
training and induction are provided. 16+
raising, to organising events and taking on adrenalin-filled
Challenges or co-ordinate regional fundraising. Bake
cakes, distribute Christmas card brochures or sell annual
draw tickets. time commitment to suit you. 15+
LEUKAEMIA CARE want charitable collectors who can
carry out collections at various locations throughout the
year. Time and places of collections are flexible and to suit
the individual volunteers. Whilst doing the collections, you
can raise awareness of their work and services by commu-
nicating with the public. Full training and support given. All
expenses paid. 18+
MAGNA WS HOUSING ASSOCIATION are in need of
people who can provide a cheery visit and deliver a freshly
cooked meal to elderly and disabled people in the commu-
nity, who live within a 10 mile radius of Watchet. This ser-
vice makes a huge difference to their lives. No experience
needed, just a clean driving licence and a friendly personal-
ity. All expenses paid for. Full training will be given. 17+
12
MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE seek Helpers who support
terminally ill people, their family and carers, usually by visit-
ing them at home. They are a familiar face who will spend
time and listens to them. Someone to make them aware of
services that are available to them to get the support they
need. Full training and support given. 18+
MARIE CURIE also want Outreach box collectors for
Minehead, Porlock and Watchet. Collect and return vital col-
lection boxes, count and bank the money. Very minimal time
input but great rewards. We will give you training and pay
your expenses paid. Become part of a great team. No age
limits
MENCAP (TAUNTON) need helpers who will enable people
with learning disabilities to enjoy themselves. They need to
provide support where appropriate. No skills needed just pa-
tience and understanding. Very little time input, trips are a
few times a year. No age limit
MIND require Trustees to establish long and short term
goals, objectives and priorities in meeting the needs of the
community. Help promote the organisation, provide candid
and constructive criticism, advice and comments. 18+
MIND also seek walking group volunteers who have a gen-
eral level of fitness and enjoy interacting with a variety of
people. The walks will be on Monday mornings and will alter-
nate between local areas. No age limit
13
MIND WEST SOMERSET would like to find volunteers
to help them with their Access, Inclusion and Mentoring
project (AIM) which provides support and guidance to
those who have suffered or are suffering from mental and
emotional distress. AIM provides the opportunity for peo-
ple to access and integrate into the local and wider commu-
nity. No age limit
MINDLINE in Taunton want listening volunteers for 3
evenings a month to suit you. Are you a good listener and
want to help others? All training provided including mental
health awareness and telephone listening. Applications en-
couraged from people who have had experience of mental
distress or have an understanding of what it means to oth-
ers. 16+
MOORLAND MOUSIE TRUST (The Exmoor Pony Centre)
offer a variety of volunteering opportunities, from ‘meet &
greet’ volunteers for the shop and centre, to people with
horsemanship skills who can help muck in (muck out) as well
as pony handling when appropriate and necessary. From
April to September we need lots of help with the visitor
centre so if you are friendly and outgoing, can learn how to
use a till and be able to speak with visitors, please let us
know. Training, induction and support given. 15+
MIND also want Fundraising volunteers, to help launch
their community fundraising initiatives, your ideas are
most welcome, put them into practice. Great Fun. No age
limit
14
MS SOCIETY want support volunteers (visitors) who visit
people with MS in hospital, residential care or who are Iso-
lated at home. You will be providing much needed emotional
support. Training & support given. 16+
MS SOCIETY need a Chair for their Taunton and District
Branch to provide leadership to the branch, ensuring that
the committee works together as an effective team, to pro-
vide the services and activities necessary to meet the needs
of the local people affected by MS. You need to have good
leadership and communications skills, and teamwork. 18+
MOORVALE (Credit Union) want Collection point volun-
teers, who can help out for app 1 hour a week on Thursdays
(pm) in Williton and Watchet and/or on Fridays (am) in Mine-
head. You will receive and record savings and loan payments,
and will be working as part of a team. Full training will be
given. Very little time commitment. 15+
MS SOCIETY are looking for a Regional Secretary who
will be volunteering throughout the region, attending meet-
ings and working from home. This should take app 3-4 hours/
wk plus meetings. Includes organising meetings, keeping, re-
cord, etc. Training given, expenses paid. No age limit
MS SOCIETY want to find a Vice Chair to work alongside
their branch chair and ensure the branch is run smoothly
and to deliver the aims of the organisation. Working as part
of a team, leadership and good communication skills needed.
Expenses paid, 18+
15
MS SOCIETY wants a transport co-ordinator, who can
assist people affected by MS to attend meetings and
events, by linking people with reliable local transport and
Taxi . If you are a good communicator and organiser then
this may be for you. Expenses paid. No age limit you are a
good communicator and organiser then this may be for you.
Expenses paid. No age limit
MS SOCIETY need fundraising event volunteer who can
marshall, sell tickets or merchandise at branch, zone, re-
gional or national events. Help source prizes or sponsor-
ship, help organise events and much more. Very interesting
role. Be part of a team and gain experience. 16+
MS SOCIETY require a Recruitment officer who will help
recruit, induct, train and support fundraising volunteers.
Lead the fundraising group and guide its regular meetings.
You need good communication and organisation skills, be
part of a tea, have a clean driving licence and good people
skills. 18+
MS SOCIETY want merchandise and collection fundrais-
ers who can organise and sell MS merchandise at events,
organise and assist at public collections, place and service
collection boxes, empty and count them, and work as part
of a team. If you are flexible, organised and outgoing, then
this is for you. Support & training given. 17+
MS Society require a Minute Secretary with good writ-
ten communication skills and a PC to be part of our team.
16
Your role will be to take notes at committee meetings, circu-
late actions points to members, ensure records minutes are
kept, take minutes at AGM. Full training and support given.
Expenses paid. 16+
NEXT-STEP want Falls Prevention volunteers, across Som-
erset, to help raise awareness of falls prevention with
groups of older people, using the “Head over Heals” presen-
tation DVD. All you need is your own transport and a caring
attitude. Full training and support given. Expenses paid. 17+
NEXT-STEP also want Activity Support volunteers in Dul-
verton who have the opportunity to work within an enthusi-
astic team, working in a group of 1:1 situation, helping adults
with learning disabilities access a range of activities, e.g. go-
ing for walks, cafes, swimming, shopping, etc. As well as
helping with house based activities including art and music
groups. Full training, support and learning disability induc-
tion given. Also first aid course and all out of pocket ex-
penses paid. This is will suit an outgoing, friendly person with
a caring nature. 16+
NEXT-STEP want an Enabler (one to one) to take a
younger person out in a wheelchair to local shops, or around
the park, etc. To give them choices and get them out and
about. This would be in the Minehead area and ideally be on
Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. This opportunity could be
shared and suits a friendly, caring person. No age limit
17
NEXT-STEP also want an activity volunteer who will sup-
port a 14 year old boy to do activities out in the commu-
nity, such as visiting steam trains or garden centres during
holidays and possible weekends. 2-3 hour sessions. 15+
NEXT-STEP need a Befriending volunteer to befriend a
39 year old person with impaired mobility in Simonsbath,
who is isolated due to geographical location. You can give
them a chance to get out, attend hobbies/interests . This
suits a friendly, outgoing and caring person. No age limit
NEXT-STEP are looking for support volunteers, who pro-
vide support in staff supervised groups, to individual adults
with learning disabilities, to enable them to work alongside
their peer group in a range of activities, e.g. gardening, ca-
tering, recycling, etc. This will enable them to enter into
paid employment in the long term. Full training and support
given, all expenses paid. 16+
NEXT-STEP require support volunteers, who can support
Young Carers across the county on a 1:1 basis. Help them to
build confidence and self esteem, or have a break or time
out from their caring responsibilities. This is a chance for
them to have fun and access activities they otherwise
won’t. Weekly fortnightly or monthly basis 1-2 hours.
Training given to the volunteer, expenses paid, no age limit
18
NEXT-STEP want Teenage Parent’s Buddy Scheme volun-
teers, who can provide support and encouragement to a
young parent, to increase their self-confidence, develop life
skills and help them achieve their true potential for them-
selves and their child. Full training, support and supervision
given. 18+
NEXT-STEP want volunteer drivers to use their own cars
to transport vulnerable people of all ages with all types of
needs to various locations around the county. Expenses paid,
clean licence and caring nature essential. 17+
NEXT-STEP require Active Living Centre Organisers for
their project in Dulverton, who get involved in the planning
stages before it opens. Developing a new service with a small
team of volunteers, appropriate training, development of
new skills and ongoing support. 18+
NEXT-STEP want Active Living Centre Volunteers on
Tuesdays in Dulverton who can assist with the day to day
running of the centre, and set up and oversee a range of ac-
tivities. You need to be friendly, motivated and get on with a
wide range of people. Very rewarding. 16+
NEXT-STEP need befriending volunteers for family carers
of people with mental health problems. To provide one to one
support them through difficult times by listening and sup-
porting them. Very small time input, very rewarding and sup-
port and training given. Expenses paid. No age limit
19
NEXT-STEP need care assistants for a day centre for
the elderly in Minehead, to work along staff and help with
the day to day running of the centre. To help others have
fun, gain selfworth and confidence. Mon Wed & Fridays 16+
NEXT-STEP want Activity volunteers for the day centre
to undertake craft activities, participate with scrabble,
cards, etc. or flexcicise and similar. Same days. 16+
NEXT-STEP want Activity volunteers who will support a
person/persons with learning difficulties on the path to
work. To help them acquire and maintain work related skills
and move further towards independence. This is at the
youth hostel in Alcombe on Friday mornings. No age limit
NEXT-STEP are looking for a befriending volunteer to
help a young woman to feel confident about going to vari-
ous activities in Taunton, someone for her to talk to and go
to the cinema, a coffee/lunch or similar. Age ideally 25-35
NEXT-STEP needs Treasurers for Minehead and Brush-
ford to attend active living centres and collect money from
the members. Also help with other book-keeping tasks like
expense payments, banking, paying of invoices, etc. Basic
knowledge needed, support given and all expenses paid. 16+
NEXT-STEP need volunteers to work closely with a pro-
ject worker to deliver the aims of a group, and deliver fun
and exciting programmes and support for young carers. No
age limits, training and support given and expenses paid 16+
20
NHS (Speech & Language Therapy Service) need volun-
teers for life enriched Aphasia Project (LEAP). If you are
patient, reliable, caring and a good communicator and can
travel independently, then please let us train you to enrich
the life of stroke patients by helping them overcome
problems with conversation and restore their self confi-
dence. You will need to commit for at least six months but
are only needed fortnightly for a couple of hours. This is an
interesting and rewarding opportunity. Expenses paid. 16+
NSPCC are looking for distribution co-ordinators, who can
deliver posters and leaflets to shops, companies, pubs, etc.,
when they have a special promotion. Very small time commit-
ment and full support given. 18+
NEXT STEP provide transport to people of all ages and
abilities with an assessed social care need. Escorts are re-
quired to accompany volunteer drivers when providing trans-
port for children 8 years and under. Escort will ensure
child's safety and wellbeing on the journey. 15+
NSPCC want collection box co-ordinators to spare just a
small amount of time and place collection boxes in shops,
pubs, supermarkets, etc. You would also need to empty them
and bank the money regularly. No skills needed. Very small
time commitment and very rewarding. 18+
PALS run a swimming club for older and disabled people on
Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday mornings at St Audrie’s
Holiday Park. They urgently want Bus Leaders from Mine-
21
SCHOOL GOVERNORS ONE-STOP-SHOP want you to
volunteer as a school governor at a school near you. This
is an exciting and unique way to become involved in your lo-
cal community. As a member of a governing body you will
meet new people, develop your skills, widen your experi-
ences and ultimately influence the education of local chil-
dren. All you need is enthusiasm to make a difference. 18+
head and Porlock to meet their clients at the bus, collect
the money, help them get on and off the bus and simply
ensure their safety during the journey. All bus leaders are
welcome to join the swimming sessions for free, and to join
in the fun of the members. Caring and friendly nature is all
that’s required. Very rewarding. No age restrictions
PEOPLE’S TRUST FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES are a
conservation charity that ensures a future for endangered
species. They want Traditional Orchard Surveyors to sur-
vey orchards that they have identified, by completing a 2
phase survey that needs to be completed within 2 months.
Training and support is given to all volunteers. Time input is
very minimal. Great way to get outdoors during this beauti-
ful weather. No age restrictions.
PROMISE is a county-wide mentoring programme for
young people. If you can get involved for a minimum of 2
years and can spare 2/3 hours contact each week, they will
invest in you to become a Mentor. You will complete a rec-
ognised and accredited training course as well as an in-
depth assessment programme. 18+
22
SOMERSET CARE LIMITED needs friendly, outgoing vol-
unteers to provide varied activities for their residents
from organising knitting groups, assisting with trips out,
shopping with or for residents, or help with cooking or gar-
dening. Can you help with any of the above? No experience
needed, just a caring attitude. No age restrictions
SOMERSET CARE LIMITED want gardeners to help them
revamp their garden and make it more user friendly for
their elderly residents. Basic gardening skills and a friendly
nature is all that is needed. No age restrictions
SOMERSET ACTIVE LIVING want active living centre
helpers and an organiser for new groups in Minehead and
Dulverton area. As one of their volunteers you can offer
skills and experiences, meet new friends, feel part of the
community and learn new skills. Commitment is 5-7 hours
fortnightly and you can be trained in basic first aid and food
hygiene if you wish. You will support older people in Active
Living Centres and help them make feel welcome, comfort-
able and support them to enjoy a range of activities. 16+
SOMERSET COMMUNITY LAND & FOOD PROJECT need
Mapping volunteers for phase one of the SLAF project, to
map land currently used by community groups to produce
food (for example grow fruit & vegetable or manage small
scale livestock). Mappers will explore the local area, liaise
with parish council and allotment associations and identify
further land for food production, input data into a database.
Map training will be given. No age limits
23
Can’t commit to a regular volunteering oppor-
tunity? No problem!
We often have one or two day events where
volunteers are wanted to help out with vari-
ous activities, from marshals at cycling
races, fundraising events, to Wildlife Trust
days, Watchet Carnival or the Cancer Re-
search Relay for life. We have something for
everybody so come and find out more.
SOMERSET PARENT PARTNERSHIP want Independ-
ent Parental Supporters to provide a range of informa-
tion, guidance and support to parents and carers of chil-
dren with Special Educational Needs - for example, sup-
porting parents at meetings relating to their child's
education; helping to prepare for meetings, etc. Full
training and induction given. Expenses paid and support
for all volunteers. 18+
SOMERSET SIGHT want Volunteer Visitors to help
and support visually impaired people to lead a more inde-
pendent life. All you need is empathy and understanding,
a friendly and caring nature and to be able to commit to
visit somebody on a regular basis. This opportunity is
very rewarding and travel expenses will be paid. Oppor-
tunities are all over West Somerset. 18+
24
SOMERSET WILDLIFE TRUST urgently need communica-
tions/administration volunteer and an IT development vol-
unteer. Both opportunities are based in Tonedale Welling-
ton. Please come and find out more. They also require Wild-
life Volunteers to fulfil a variety of volunteering opportuni-
ties all over Somerset. You can help with practical conserva-
tion tasks or wildlife monitoring and recording, as well as of-
fice based tasks at the head office nr Wellington. They also
need help at specific events or you could possibly join the
Why should you volunteer?
♦ To meet new people
♦ To have fun and do something different
♦ To learn new skills and gain qualifica-
tions
♦ To enhance your CV
♦ To give something back and feel
wanted
♦ To use your skills and pass them on
♦ To change somebody else’s life for the
better
♦ To make a difference
♦ Because we want you!
25
TAUNTON AND SOMERSET SAMARITANS
Require listening volunteers who offer emotional support
24 hours a day, 365 days a year as part of the National
Samaritan organisation. Excellent training and support
given. The opportunity is situated in Taunton. They also
need Support volunteers, who help with fund-raising, pub-
licity, collections and administration. Very rewarding op-
portunities. No age limit
Do you need volunteers?
Or do you know somebody who does?
Then please give them our details and we
will advertise yours or their volunteering op-
portunity in the next booklet and/or on the
volunteering England website.
All free of charge
area group committee if organising is your thing. An up to
date list of activities is available. Mostly 18+ some 16+
THE BAKELITE MUSEUM offers opportunities to help in
a unique and world famous museum. You would meet and
greet visitors and help with the general running of the
museum, taking money, selling publication, etc. No experi-
26
TRANSITION MINEHEAD & ALCOMBE (TMA) want vol-
unteers for their garden share scheme all over West Som-
erset. If you have difficulties looking after your garden and
are prepared to share it with someone for them to grow
fruit or vegetables, or if you are looking for a garden to
grow produce but have no garden or land, then this scheme
might be for you. This is great fun, very rewarding and a
chance to meet new people. 16+
THE SOMERSET & DORSET RAILWAY MUSEUM at
Washford station require General volunteers who would like
to step back in time at this delightful station. There is
something for all ages and fitness. You can work at the sta-
tion shop, perform maintenance and restoration work on rail-
way vehicles or buildings. Join a great team and have fun.
18+ (or supervised)
needed but an enthusiastic, friendly manner and interest in
the collection would be a bonus. Training given and expenses
paid. Or you could help out in maintaining the grounds and garden, especially with the new vintage
1930’s caravan park, or the café, which sometimes needs
extra help with serving and food preparation. No age limit
THE HOPE CENTRE ALLOTMENTS are looking for any-
body interested in joining their group to produce fruit and
vegetables. In particular they are looking for young volun-
teers 16-25 so they can show them how to grow things. This
is a lovely and friendly group who use some of the produce
for their homeless project. 16+
27
WEST SOMERSET ADVICE BUREAU would like to train
you as a volunteer advisor, the core of the service they
offer. Training is in house, once a week, after which you
can join their other advisors on a rota, and help people who
call or come into the Minehead office. No age limit
VISTA PROJECT want volunteers over 50 to join their
Intergenerational project (postcards from the past).
They will teach you how to take a digital photo of an item
from your past, and how to manipulate it, then upload it
onto a website and tell your story to young people. This is a
brilliant way to bring generations together and learn from
each other. Come and find out more. 50+
WEST SOMERSET ADVICE BUREAU are also looking for
receptionists, with no previous experience but a friendly
and professional attitude, as they will be the first contact
for any visitors. Admin volunteers are also required to
help with the 1001 tasks that makes the bureau run
smoothly, from data inputting, to form filing (1 day a week)
No experience needed, no age restrictions
VICTIM SUPPORT require Victim/Witness Supporters
who help rebuild shattered lives and give support to vic-
tims of crime throughout the county of Somerset and sup-
port witnesses at trial/court. If you are mature and have
life skills, a non judgemental approach and a desire to help
others, then this might be for you. Full training (training
course) and ongoing support given, with all out of pocket
expenses paid. Maximum age 70
28
WEST SOMERSET CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER are
looking for conservation volunteers who meet up every
other Friday around various beauty spots in Somerset to
give all sorts of help needed and wanted in regards to con-
servation work. Lift provided, all you need is to be reasona-
bly fit and enjoy the countryside and wildlife. 16+
If you are looking for something to do
but aren’t quite sure if volunteering is
for you, why not pop in for a chat
and a cup of tea or coffee? Pick up
that phone, make an appointment and
find out more. It could be the best
decision you ever make!
WEST SOMERSET HEALTHY COMMUNITIES (WSHC)
need volunteers to become active members who help and
WEST SOMERSET CAR SCHEME PARTNERSHIP urgently
want a Treasurer who can work from home, plus attend 3
meetings a year. You will maintain financial records, prepare
a simple annual financial statement and possibly be able to
perform basic photo shop procedures for driver ID’s. Sup-
port and training given, but you will need basic account
knowledge, be organised and methodical, basic computing
skill and a team player. Expenses paid 18+
29
WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY ASSOCIATION will be
looking to fill various volunteering opportunities such as
ticket sellers, engineers, station staff, signal men,
gardeners, gangway members, etc. to be filled at various
stations throughout the West Somerset Railway line. They
Urgently want volunteers for their turntable café and on
board catering facilities to work app 4 hour shifts. This is
a fun opportunity so find out more. Come and find out how
you can keep the railway and it’s stations going for many
more generations, something for everybody.
WEST SOMERSET RURAL LIFE MUSEUM needs a
handyperson to help with a variety of maintenance jobs
around the museum, such as maintaining display cabinets,
furniture, and general repairs etc. Flexible hours to suit
the volunteers, good DIY skills, no heavy building work. We
only have limited tools, so if you have your own, please
bring them along too. No age limit.
WEST SOMERSET RURAL LIFE MUSEUM require a Ad-
ministrator/Assistant Manager who can work alongside
the Chairman and the Treasurer to assist the day to day
running of the museum. This person would need to help su-
pervising a team of volunteers, liaise with local schools and
possibly carry out some public speaking. 18+
support healthy lifestyle events within West Somerset,
e.g. cooking sessions and healthy eating events in schools.
We also offer the opportunity to join the WSHC commit-
tee. 16+
30
WHEELS (Watchet and Williton Voluntary Community
Car Scheme) are looking for voluntary drivers who will
drive elderly and disabled people to appointments and social
outings. If you like driving, have a clean driving licence, own
a car and like to help people get about, this is for you. You
can choose your trips and how far you are willing to travel.
Need to be reliable. All out of pocket expenses (including
mileage) paid. 17+
WEST SOMERSET SCOUT DISTRICT want you to help
young people to develop as active members of their commu-
nity. They need people with all types of experiences and
want uniformed leaders, committee members, fund rais-
ers, instructors and more, there is a place for you some-
where. Help young people achieve their physical, intellectual,
social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible
citizens and as members of their local communities. Vacan-
cies all over West Somerset, i.e. Williton, Porlock, etc.
YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION MINEHEAD need peo-
ple to help out with health & safety paperwork, like risk as-
sessments. If you have any knowledge about health & safety
or are good on the computer please let us know. They also
need gardeners, catering and housekeeping volunteers and
general help with their visitors. The YHA in Alcombe is one
of the most stunning locations on Exmoor. Friendly atmos-
phere and support and training given. 16+
31
New opportunities come in on a regular ba-
sis so we encourage you to call or come in to
see what we have on offer and we can talk
over a cup of tea or coffee. If you want to
have a private chat please also call, as we
can meet outside the opening hours.
OPENING HOURS:
Monday—Thursday 12-3pm or by appoint-
ment,
Friday by appointment only
YHA EXFORD need help with painting and decorating and
general DIY. You don’t need to be qualified just good with
your hands and willing to help. It’s a lovely way to meet
people and all you need is enthusiasm. They also need help
with the gardens, including habitat building in one of the
most beautiful spots on Exmoor. 16+
32
We update this list regularly. If you are inter-
ested in any of the
opportunities please contact Nicole at Engage
Volunteer Centre
on 01643 704041
Or email on volunteercentre@engagews.org.uk
You are welcome to come in for a chat about any
opportunity you may be interested in. There is
usually someone in the
Minehead office between 12 and 3pm Monday to
Thursday but you are advised to ring and make
an appointment to avoid disappointment. Friday’s
by app. only.
23 A Friday Street
Minehead
TA24 5UB Engage Volunteer Centre is part of
ENGAGE—the West Somerset Voluntary Sector Development Agency
The working name of West Somerset CVS Charity No. 297839
top related