Job details

Job type

• volunteer

location

• 1 Murray Street, Hartlepool TS26 8PD

Full job description

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants? You can help them build on their strengths to cope with the crisis and rebuild their lives. The British Red Cross is a volunteer-led organization and the UK's largest independent provider of services and support to refugees and asylum seekers. We are looking for motivated volunteers to help support vulnerable refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants adjust to life in a new country. This could be by providing advice on how to access services, offering emotional support, assisting with our group work, or providing emergency support at our reception centers. We would like you to: - Be available on a regular weekly basis. - Be able to volunteer on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Be able to commit to volunteering for at least 12 months. - Be able to speak a second language other than English, preferably Arabic, Farsi, or Kurdish. - Due to the nature of this role, we can only accept applications from female applicants. The volunteer role will take place at the Refugee Support Service at the Peace Centre, Hartlepool (TS26 8PD). **Unfortunately, we can't always accommodate young people aged 15-17, so get in touch and we'll let you know about other suitable opportunities near you.** We'd especially love to hear from you if you are (or have been) an asylum seeker or refugee. Diversity is something we celebrate. We want you to be able to bring your authentic self to the Red Cross and feel a sense of belonging. We want to create an inclusive environment, promoting and spreading the power of kindness. As part of creating an inclusive space, we have an expenses policy that prioritizes volunteers who don't have expenses associated with your role. If the upfront costs are challenging, you can speak to your Volunteer Manager about this to find alternatives. We want volunteering to be accessible to everyone. **Health and Safety Statement** We take an individualized approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment, and we'll also have a chat with you to discuss and identify any adjustments you may need. If you have any questions before applying, please contact us at volunteerrecruitment@redcross.org.uk.
Why we want you: Are you passionate about supporting people in crisis? We are looking for enthusiastic project volunteers who enjoy being part of a supportive team. You will be friendly and welcoming, willing to participate in our diverse services and activities. You will enjoy working with people face-to-face in a multicultural environment. Our Refugee Support Project volunteers help people feel comfortable and engaged in the services we provide by providing emotional support. This can be a challenging time, and we aim to ease the process of adjusting to life in a new country through resilience and empowerment.

• Tasks: Show people where to find local services they need.
  
  Help the team set up and manage teamwork activities.
  
  Support the team with some administrative tasks.
  
  Use your Red Cross training to provide emotional support to people.
• Skills: Strong communication skills and empathy for the situation and needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants.
  
  Ability to volunteer in a multicultural environment.
  
  Good teamwork skills and willingness to provide support when needed.
  
  Speak English; knowledge of another language would be beneficial (particularly one used by the current local refugee population).
  
  Emotional resilience, as you may need to navigate challenging or difficult situations.
  
  Keeping the people we support at the heart of what you do.
• Benefits: Meet new people and join a supportive and inclusive team.
  
  A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones.
  
  All training and orientation for the role (no training fees).
  
  Reasonable travel expenses agreed in advance for the role, including attending training.
  
  The opportunity to be part of the world's largest humanitarian organization and the knowledge that you are making a difference in people's lives.