The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Projects Handbook
2009 - 2010
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
It’s THE place to come if you want to get involved in the SU, societies, charities and much more. We’re here to help you make the most out of your time at Uni – either on campus or in the city. We can guide you every step of the way to get you doing something you love – from coaching sports to working with refugees to running a fair trade cafe. We all love sitting on the sofa, having a cup of tea and watching Hollyoaks but if you want to do something else too, then give us a shout!
Why Volunteer? Why the heck not! Over 4,000 students have signed up to volunteer in the past year because it’s a free, easy way to enhance your Uni experience and your CV. You can get out, meet new people, learn new skills, and have a laugh – all whilst doing some good! Our projects offer tons of different options with something for everyone. Whatever your course, your interests or your talents we’ve got something to suit you.
Easy
It couldn’t be easier to get involved. We’ll help you every step of the way, supporting you to make sure you get the most out of volunteering.
Experience
Volunteering will help you develop new skills and enjoy experiences you can’t find anywhere else at Uni. As well as helping others you’ll be helping yourself to become even more attractive to future employers.
Flexible
You can commit as much or as little of your time as you want. From a one-off challenge to setting up your own project – it’s up to you how involved you get.
Fun, Fun, Fun!
None of this would matter if volunteering wasn’t actually fun. It’s a great way to make new friends AND it’s all about the feel-good factor.
So sign up to our mailing list today…
We’ll keep you up-to-date with all the latest opportunities and what’s going on in your Students’ Union, your community, and beyond.
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www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Enjoyed every minute of it!
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What is the Student Volunteer Centre?
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
One-Off Volunteering Fancy volunteering but not sure you can do it regularly?
Tasters are your chance to get stuck into some one-off volunteering. If you’ve not volunteered before why not ‘Suck It & See’? Or, if you’ve had a bite of volunteering and liked it, pop back for another nibble.
Enjoy working in a team rather than on your own?
In the past we’ve spent an afternoon planting an orchard, organised Christmas Parties for the elderly, and built a pig paddock on a farm! Meanwhile, our intrepid volunteers had a laugh, saw a different side of Nottingham and got that warm, fuzzy feeling that only volunteering can give.
Want to have a go at something a bit different? Sounds like you need a TASTER!
We’re always looking for new one-off stuff, so if you hear of anyone needing some work doing let us know. Maybe you’ve been volunteering at a project and noticed they need help with a big event. Wherever we can help make a difference we want to get involved. Oh, and if you fancy coordinating a Taster we’re always on the look-out for people to organise and lead one-off events too!
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Introducing…
Now you know what we do, it’s time to meet the team… BRIDGET LITCHFIELD Student Volunteer Centre Manager
ANDREW KNIGHT Development Worker
I oversee all of SVC’s work, and I think I’m pretty lucky really. After all, I must have one of the best jobs in the Students’ Union!
I’m here to shout about how brilliant student volunteering and student volunteers are! As the guy in charge of all of the Centre’s publicity – from posters and flyers to our regular e-newsletter – I make sure everyone knows what’s going on and how to get involved.
Everyone who works within the Centre is committed to making sure that all of you find an exciting volunteering opportunity to meet your individual needs so that you have a great time doing something that you’re passionate about. When I am not in the Centre, I am an amateur Ghostbuster, visiting spooky places and seeking out spirits from the other side - “Who ya gonna call…?”
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I have always found the staff to be very helpful and friendly and easy to talk to.
Alongside the Events Team (see p.6) I tell everyone what we’re up to so that we can get as many volunteers as possible! I also coordinate the one-off volunteering so if you don’t have tons of time or fancy a bite-size chunk of fun, just give me a shout. In my spare time, I regularly dress up as a zombie / killer robot (for films and fancy dress parties), put on gigs and run a record label!
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www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
STEPHEN BARTON Development Worker My job involves finding as many great opportunities to volunteer all over Nottingham (and the rest of country and the world!) as possible. There are over 100 volunteering projects to choose from so I’m busy all year round researching projects and asking you guys what you thought of your volunteering. I also do a lot of work with the SU’s Societies and Sports Clubs. Last year I helped Dodgeball Soc, Taekwondo Soc and Role Playing Soc (to name but a few) get volunteering in the community. I want to do even more this year so if you’re a member of a club and want to make the most of your skills and abilities then let me know. I also run the Tag Rugby project each year which brings together local schools and students for a fun-filled face-off pitting our volunteer coaches against Trent’s. Fun fact about me? I once owned a pet lobster! And I love getting behind the wheel of everything from a go-kart to a Lamborghini.
CATIE SMITH Development Worker Want to start your own volunteering project? From self help groups to international charities I get to help anyone that wants to create their own project! I also spread the word about all the cool things you can do in the SU. There’s tons you can do – from dressing up as Easy Tiger to promote safe sex to becoming a trainer and delivering STAR sessions. My highlight of working at SVC so far has been going to Grad Ball, oh and running round Dunkirk taking silly photos with our Internal Volunteers (see p.6) for a training game. I enjoy travelling and my best bits have been swimming with pink dolphins in inky Bolivian rivers and sitting under a hot waterfall in Guatemala.
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Introducing…
Also, if you pop into the Student Volunteer Centre you’re likely to find these lovely people … Accommodation & Community Officer – SAM WILKINSON “I’m here to represent students wherever they live, on campus and around, and to be a point of contact for students wanting to get out there and make a difference in their local community. The Centre supports my role by developing student input in our community and our Union. Through its passion for volunteering and dedication to student support, the Centre is a great way to get out there, get active, and make a real difference! Any questions? Feel free to contact sucommunity@nottingham.ac.uk.”
If you are interested in standing for the Accommodation & Community Officer role please see www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/elections.
Sam Wilkinson
SVC Volunteer Team
Not only do we send volunteers out in to the community/SU, we also have a lovely bunch of them to help us out in the Centre too... Information Team If you come to see us in the Centre, chances are you’ll have a chat with a member of our Info Team. These guys are on hand to give advice on volunteering and help you find the right project for you. Events Team These guys work with Andrew to promote volunteering and the Centre all over campus and beyond. They’re bright, creative and really rather lovely even if we do say so ourselves! Database Volunteers Who keeps our mailing list up-to-date? Why, these dudes do! The DVs give us a hand with our office / admin work. Volunteer Coordinator Guess what this person does? Yep, they look after all the other Centre volunteers and make sure everyone’s happy and has plenty to do. We will be recruiting throughout the year for the above roles so please ask us (or visit our website) if you’d like more information.
ly Some of ouur ntlove Centre Vol eers! www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Volunteering in the Students’ Union Volunteering’s not just about helping out in the community. There’s loads of stuff you can do to get involved and make a difference in the Students’ Union too. From helping organise the Summer Party to becoming the next Chris Moyles on the Union’s radio station, URN we’ve got something for everyone!
Got talent?
Could you cover gigs for the award winning Impact magazine? Want to work behind the scenes for the UK’s only student-run theatre? Or perhaps you’d like to be a presenter for NUTS TV? Nottingham Uni has awesome student media which you can be a part of!
Fancy dressing up?
Would you be up for dressing up as a tiger to promote safe sex to student clubbers? Can you convince drunk students to put a sock in it at 3am? Or are you bursting with ideas to help students be safe, get a good house or avoid being skint? Help out on a campaign or start one yourself with the help of the Welfare Officer!
Nice as pie?
Are you empathetic, non-judgemental and a good listener? Then Nightline, a helpline run by students, for students could be just the thing for you! Or maybe you remember how exciting – but overwhelming – it was to be a Fresher. As a Week One Rep you could help Freshers stay happy and safe when they’re clubbing!
Be the bosses!
Want to get really stuck in? Then run for an Executive Officer position in March. It’s not strictly volunteering as you’ll get paid for the year but it’s such a great opportunity we thought we’d mention it anyway!
There are tons of opportunities available so we can’t list them all here. If you’d like to know more just give us a shout! volunteering@nottingham.ac.uk
What’s your problem?
Don’t just sit there moaning…get shouting about issues and help put them right! Iron out any problems in your school as an Academic Rep, make sure that everyone’s voice is heard with one of the Rep networks like LGBT or Students with Disabilities Association. Or go to Union Council and have your say about how you want your SU to be run.
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Student-Led Projects Got an idea that could help people? From DJ workshops in local youth clubs to baking cakes for isolated people, come and have a chat to us about it and we’ll help you get started!
Case Studies · After being frustrated about not being able to help a friend with an eating disorder, Nicola set up B-eat, a self help group for Nottingham Uni students with eating disorders. (See page 14.) · Chris volunteered in Uganda and was shocked by the level of suffering. So when he came to study at the University of Nottingham he set up a Student led Project (SHARE Uganda) to raise awareness and funds to help kids go to school. (See page 32.)
The Student Volunteer Centre can give you grants, support and training to help you start your own Student Led Project.
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Contact Catie Smith on 0115 8468751 or volunteering@nottingham.ac.uk to find out more.
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to meet people, relax and contribute to the community. Loads of fun and satisfaction guaranteed.
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· Judith, an environmental student, decided to help Trent Vale Primary School become green (through the Eco-Schools scheme). She shared her knowledge and got some great practical experience to add to her CV in the process. (See page 18.)
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Project Index
Use the symbols below to select the project that’s right for you.
Art
Disabled
Health
Refugee/ Ethnicity
Support & Advice
Befriending/ Mentoring
Elderly
Housing
School
Youth Groups & Clubs
Children
Enterprise
International
Sport
Community
Environmental
Literacy & Language
Student-Led
Acorn Resource Centre Action for Young Carers Activ8 Uth @ The Lenton Centre Aspire ATE Superweeks Barncroft Buddies Barnardo’s B-eat Beeston Toy Library Bramcote Park Enterprise School BTCV Cancer Research UK Carelink CHICKS Childhealth Advocacy International (CAI) Childline/NSPCC Community Befriending Crocus Café Crocus Fields Division of Nursing & Q-active/Enhance Programme DOH - Doing our Homework Dunkirk and Lenton Partnership Forum
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Art Befriending/ Mentoring Children Community Disabled Elderly Enterprise Environmental Health
Housing International Literacy & Language Refugee/ Ethnicity School Sport Student-Led Support & Advice Youth Groups & Clubs
Eco-Schools Elizabeth FitzRoy Support EMAGine Emmanuel House English Conversation Group Enterprise Days E-volve Framework Golden Futures Groundwork Greater Nottingham Guides Headway Helpline Headway House Independent Visitors (NYAS) Inspire Lab in the Lorry Lakeside Buddies Literacy Volunteers Macmillan Cancer Support Make-A-Wish Foundation Manning Mentoring Marrow National Autistic Society Befriending Scheme New Art Exchange (NAE) Nottingham & Notts Refugee Forum Nottingham Forest Community Coaching Nottingham Mencap Nottinghamshire Clubs for Young People Nottinghamshire County Council – Sports Development Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust Nottinghamshire Hospice Nottinghamshire Royal Society for the Blind (NRSB) Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
10 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Nottingham Women’s Centre NUH Youth Service Oakfield School Over The Wall Oxfam GB Pearson Centre for Young People Playcentre Playing for Success Playworks Street Play Project Radford Care Group Radford Visiting Scheme Reading Aunties & Uncles READ International RED CROSS Fire and Emergency Support Service RED CROSS Home From Hospital RED CROSS Red Cross Clothes Donation Project RED CROSS Fundraising & Events RED CROSS Youth and Schools Refugee Support Rosehill School Samaritans
Primary Schools Beeston Fields Primary Beeston Rylands Junior Berridge Infants Dunkirk Primary John Clifford Primary Robert Shaw Primary Radford Primary Southwold Primary Sutton Bonington Primary Trent Vale Infants
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Art Befriending/ Mentoring Children Community Disabled Elderly Enterprise Environmental Health
Housing International Literacy & Language Refugee/ Ethnicity School Sport Student-Led Support & Advice Youth Groups & Clubs
Save The Children Children School Governors One-Stop Shop (SGOSS) Scouts SHARE Uganda Shelter Side by Side Befriending Scheme SIFE Nottingham St. Ann’s Allotments (STAA) Stonebridge City Farm Students For Safe Motherhood Surface Gallery Tag Rugby Coaching The Lenton Centre (TLC) Tools For Self Reliance (TFSR) Trinity RC Comprehensive School University of Nottingham Samworth Academy Urban Nature Victim Support in Nottinghamshire - Victim Service Victim Support in Nottinghamshire - Witness Service Vitalise Volunteer Centre Broxtowe Wildlife Trust Working in Tandem (WiT) WRVS YMCA Young Enterprise – Primary Programme Young Potential (YP) Youth Offending Team ZambiAIDS
12 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
The Projects... Acorn Resource Centre This Centre offers a range of activities for adults (18+ years) with a physical disability. Volunteers are needed to help with music/craft workshops, discussion groups, quizzes and health & beauty sessions. You can also go out on day trips/outings including bowling, gardening, cinema or theatre visits, or help out on their coffee bar. If you have any ideas for new activities, Acorn are always happy to hear them too! Commitment: Various (approx 2-3 hrs per visit) Location: Hyson Green
Activ8 Uth @ The Lenton Centre Activ8 Uth provides play, sport, educational and creative activities for ages 8 - 18. The project addresses and tackles the problems faced by young people, particularly those connected with social exclusion and disadvantage. You can help coach sports; teach digital photography/ video making; lead a music, dance, drama or healthy eating group. You name it, they do it – and if they don’t, they can always start! Commitment: Various (approx. 1-4 hrs per week) Location: Lenton
Action for Young Carers This free and confidential service offers support and information to Nottinghamshire’s young carers and their families. You can help by becoming a Volunteer Mentor for a young carer (from the ages of 5 -18). No experience is necessary – just an open-minded and caring manner. Please note: Good English language skills are required too. Commitment: 2 hrs per fortnight (for a minimum of 9 months) Location: Near the City Centre
Aspire Aspire aims to improve access to higher education for bright young pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through a range of initiatives and activities working with primary/secondary pupils, you can help raise their expectations and aspirations, as well as their achievements. You can help run Breakfast/After-School clubs, Classroom Lessons or Sports, Arts, Music and IT projects. Volunteers are also welcome to lead projects in any area of their own interest/expertise. Commitment: Varies (1-2 hrs per week) Location: Various (Schools in Bilborough, Strelley and Broxtowe)
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
ATE Superweeks ATE is a not-for-profit Trust that organises educational breaks (during the summer hols) for children aged 8-16. As a volunteer you can lead a group at an ATE Superweek. The training for a Superweek takes place over Easter. At this you’ll learn loads of games, songs and crafts which you can then use at any time to keep your troop entertained and happy. You’ll gain so much confidence from this training and leading a Superweek. You’ll also meet lots of like-minded people and work together as a team to make it a truly memorable week for everyone. Commitment: 1 training week + 1 ‘Superweek’ session Location: Training in Worcester + ‘Superweeks’ in various locations around the UK
Barncroft Buddies
Barnardo’s Barnardo’s Sherwood Project provides a range of services for children and families whose lives are affected by disability or life-limiting conditions. Volunteers are needed to support children/young people or their parents and carers during often stressful times. You can also help out at various Barnardo’s shops around the city. Commitment: Flexible (at least 2 hrs per fortnight) Location: Varies
Based initially at Barncroft Day Service in Beeston, you’ll get to know an adult with a learning disability via supporting learning, leisure or personal development activities. You will then move on to supporting community-based activities. This could be going for a coffee and a chat,a cinema trip, or helping someone undertake a college course/ volunteering. You could have a huge impact on someone’s inclusion in the community. In return, you’ll develop a range of skills and experience. This is a really useful role if you are interested in a career in adult social care.
B-eat
Commitment: Varies (approx. 2 -3 hrs per week) Location: Beeston/Broxtowe Borough/City
Commitment: Varies (at least 1 - 2 hrs per week) Location: Mainly on University Park.
This student-run self help group offers support to anyone affected by eating disorders - from those with the illness to their close friends. Individuals can meet others in similar situations to themselves, share their experiences or just listen to the group discussions. The project also aims to raise awareness of eating disorders and the support available. Volunteers are extremely welcome and will help publicise the self-help group through organising and coordinating awareness events, and raising funds.
(Volunteers welcome from all campuses.)
14 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Beeston Toy Library
BTCV
Play time for young children with parents, carers and other children teaches things like social skills, sharing, forming friendships and relationships. This Toy Library holds play sessions where under-5s come (with their parent or carer) to play and/or choose a toy to loan for a week or two at a nominal cost. Volunteers are needed to help run the play sessions and with the loaning of toys.
This is the biggest practical conservation charity in Britain. If you like to get outdoors and get your hands dirty then this is the project for you! Each week a minibus takes volunteers from the city centre for a day of getting back to nature. You could be cutting down brambles, trimming trees, building footpaths, or creating butterfly habitats. Whatever is needed at each site - whether it’s a nature reserve or woodlands you’re helping to maintain. You’ll be making a massive difference to improve local access/enjoyment of the countryside and hidden urban green spaces. BTCV also offer skills development and leadership training.
Commitment: 2 hrs per month Location: Beeston
Bramcote Park Enterprise School Want to be a teaching assistant? Bramcote Park School needs volunteers to help 11-16 year old students with a variety of subjects including Maths, Physics, French, Spanish, PE, Design & Technology. (Knowledge of these subjects would be advantageous). You will be working in a 1-to-1 / small group setting to help pupils with their work. There’s also an after-school h omework club that needs volunteer helpers. The club runs from 3.30–5.30pm in the school’s IT suite. Students access PCs in a safe, conducive study environment. You can assist students with their homework in an informal atmosphere under the supervision of a member of school staff
Commitment: Flexible (1 full day volunteering whenever you’re free) Location: Various – Notts (transport provided)
Cancer Research UK The UK’s leading charity relating to cancer research needs volunteers to help raise vital funds and public awareness. As part of the local Action Team you can make a real difference to their work. You can help organise and run events and activities for the charity but you can choose when and how you get involved. It really is flexible, no strings volunteering! Commitment: Flexible Location: Various
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Bramcote
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering 15
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Childhealth Advocacy International (CAI) Carelink This charity works with elderly and vulnerable people living in Lenton and Dunkirk. Most of their work is with people over 60. Carelink run Day Centres and a Befriending Scheme, as well as social events, outings, and an annual holiday. You can volunteer with any of these projects. So if you want to make a huge difference to the life of a local elderly person get in touch today! Commitment: Minimum of 1 hr per week Location: Various (Lenton / Dunkirk)
CHICKS CHICKS offer holidays for underprivileged and abused children or child carers who look after disabled/sick parents. These children don’t often have the chance to act as children and enjoy their youth. A holiday allows them to laugh, play and express themselves in a caring, friendly and stress-free environment. You will help to provide as much attention as possible, and join in all the games/activities.
CAI is an international charity that works to improve healthcare for babies, children and pregnant mothers in disadvantaged countries. It has projects in 4 countries, training and supporting local people and providing essential medical equipment/supplies. Volunteers can help organise projects, raise funds or work in the CAI office. Commitment: Varies for each opportunity Location: Lenton (Derby Road)
Childline/NSPCC ChildLine is the UK’s free 24 hour helpline for children/young people in danger or distress. Volunteers take calls about a wide range of problems such as abuse (physical, mental and sexual), bullying, serious family problems, worries about friends’ welfare, and teenage pregnancy. Volunteers are also needed including switch-boarders and fundraisers to help achieve Childline’s aim of being able to answer every call for help, from every child who needs it. Commitment: 1-4 hrs per week Location: City Centre
Commitment: A 5 day session (at various times through the year) Location: Devon or Cornwall
16 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
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The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
The two placements I went on were fantastic.
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Community Befriending Are you caring, patient and a good listener? This is your chance to get a buzz from befriending and gain valuable experience at the same time. New volunteers are always needed to befriend adults with mental ill health or learning disabilities. You can provide support to someone through home visits, trips to cafés, pubs, the theatre or cinema. Commitment: 2 hrs per week or fortnight (for a minimum of 6 months) Location: All over Nottingham
Crocus Café This not-for-profit, fair trade café aims to bring members of the community together (students, non-students and different ethnic groups) in a relaxed environment. You can serve in the café but more importantly interact with the customers, develop their awareness of their community and form friendships. Volunteers can also showcase their art, photography or musical talents in the café and help organise events. Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Lenton (Church Square – behind Savoy Cinema)
Crocus Fields This short stay care unit supports children/young people (ages 8 – 18) with a wide range of learning disabilities. The centre has 2 residential units alongside safe play areas, a craft room, sensory room and lounges. You can help organise and run activities such as swimming, bowling, football and trips to the cinema. Commitment: Variable (but must commit for full academic year) Location: The Meadows
Division of Nursing & Q-active/Enhance Programme You can help out with Q-Active/ Enhance health promotion events at the QMC improving staff and students’ health and wellbeing or even organise your own health promotion events. There are opportunities to get involved in research studies and (if you’re a Postgraduate student with existing research skills) to conduct projects in the area of health and wellbeing for your dissertation / research project. Past volunteers have written articles that have been published in books / academic journals such as Clinical Rehabilitation, International Journal of Workplace Health and Health Promotion & Education. Commitment: Various Location: QMC
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering 17
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
DOH - Doing our Homework DOH provides improved homework facilities and assistance for all children and young people (8-18) in Radford/Lenton and Hyson Green. You can help with IT work and internet research. Or you can utilise multi-media encyclopaedia, find information in the library’s many books, or generally help with problematic homework/revision. You may also be asked to listen to children read and help with handwriting skills.
Eco-Schools
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Radford/Lenton or Hyson Green Libraries
Want to help a local school become greener? Volunteers are needed to help youngsters work towards being awarded the prestigious Green Flag award. This is done through working with pupils and staff to set up an Eco Action Plan to tackle the issues they see as important. This initiative aims to help children (and teachers) develop the skills needed to become more sustainable at home and school. You will set up or support pupils’ eco-committees, come up with ideas for eco action days and attend Eco-Schools’ Volunteer Network meetings to share your experience and ideas.
Dunkirk and Lenton Partnership Forum
Commitment: Varies Location: Around Notts. (including Beeston & Radford)
Want to work with a grassroots community group to change where you live? This is your chance! The Forum works to improve the area for all its residents. They do this through consultation and working groups but also with their Food Co-op/Fruit & Veg box scheme, Breakfast Club and Children’s Forum. All of which need volunteers to help out and have their say! Commitment: 30 mins a week Location: Lenton / Dunkirk (obviously!)
Elizabeth FitzRoy Support This Lenton-based charity provides practical support for adults with learning disabilities. They have 2 residential nursing homes with a team of staff and volunteers supporting 13 adults with more profound and complex needs. You can help with a variety of work from helping someone attend their college course to outings such as swimming or cinema trips. If you have IT, art or music skills you can also run activity sessions for residents to take part in. Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Lenton
18 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
English Conversation Group
EMAGine Many Black/Mixed Heritage pupils in secondary schools underachieve at GCSE when compared to other groups (despite good results at primary level). They’re also over-represented in exclusion statistics. In an attempt to redress such inequalities, volunteers are needed to act as positive academic role models in the core subjects (English, Maths, Science, ICT). In particular, but not exclusively, male Black/Mixed Heritage students are needed to address the specific needs of Black/Mixed Heritage boys. Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: City secondary schools
Emmanuel House This day centre offers a wide range of support/services to homeless and vulnerable people. It aims to provide warmth, acceptance, encouragement, care and friendship to all who enter. Trained volunteers are essential to the smooth running of the centre’s coffee bar, computer room and charity shop. All of these will offer you the chance to work directly with the centre’s visitors. This is also an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in working with people with Mental Health issues.
The aim of these group lessons is to help people learning English in Nottingham gain confidence in communicating and expand their knowledge. Users come from many different countries, and sessions are conducted in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. Volunteers are needed to help prepare and lead the sessions. Commitment: 4-8 hrs per month Location: City Centre
Enterprise Days If you fancy doing a one-off activity, you could help facilitate an Enterprise Day in a local secondary school. Through workshops that aim to unlock their key skills pupils learn how to solve problems and achieve goals. You’ll help pupils practice and develop their problem solving, teamwork, communication and presentation skills. All of which enhances their employability. It’s always good fun and a great way for you to improve your own skills too! Commitment: Training + 1 day event Location: Local secondary schools
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Hockley (Nott’m City Centre)
www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering 19
Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
E-volve How much better would school have been if you’d had regular contact with a mentor? Somebody who wasn’t your teacher/parent, someone to be encouraged by who you could sound off to. How much more motivated would you have been? You can help potential University students just by sending a few emails a week! How good will the word ‘mentor’ look on your CV? By sitting at your computer for half an hour or so a week you could really make a difference to someone’s life! Commitment: 1 hr per week Location: Home/Uni./Anywhere with internet access
Framework Would you like to help homeless and vulnerable people become more independent and less socially excluded? Framework build people’s confidence as well as their practical skills to help them rebuild their lives. Volunteers are needed to provide information, advice, education and support to people with housing problems. There are tons of ways you can help - from leading training sessions to helping people find job/ volunteer opportunities themselves. Commitment: Varies (prefer a year’s commitment) Location: Near the City Centre
Golden Futures Golden Futures offer support, advice and loans to young Cambodians leaving NGO care. They give people the chance to establish themselves in life - through a University education, vocational training, or by helping them to start a business. Volunteers are needed to help raise money and awareness - both on campus and around Nottingham. You could even join the project in Cambodia to see the fruits of your labour, and visit the orphanage Golden Futures works with. Commitment: Varies (approx 2-3 hrs per week) Location: On campus / City Centre
Groundwork Greater Nottingham Want to work for an environmental regeneration charity? Groundwork aims to create communities that people are proud to live and work in. As a volunteer you can do all sorts, from growing organic food to working on local heritage projects to youth work. You can even do Play Work – working with 5 – 13 year olds in local parks! Whatever skills you have / want to develop (landscape drawing, admin/ HR, publicity etc) there’s plenty on offer. Commitment: Flexible Location: Various across Greater Nottingham
20 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Guides
Headway Helpline
There are opportunities to work with Rainbows, Brownies, Rangers and Guides in the local area. Previous experience isn’t necessary, but warranted or part warranted Guiders are welcomed. All you really need to have is a responsible attitude towards personal safety and looking after children and young people. And lots of energy! Volunteers help with every aspect of the running of weekly meetings. This includes activities such as crafts, games, life skills and various outdoor activities.
Headway’s Helpline provides information and support to brain injury survivors, their family and carers. It also takes calls from professionals and non-professionals with queries about brain injury. This is an interesting, challenging and varied opportunity particularly suitable for people with an interest in the areas of Psychology and Health. Training (in brain injury and call handling skills) and full support will be given.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Beeston, Chilwell, Bramcote
Commitment: Min approx 4 hrs per week (for at least 1 academic year) Location: Nottingham City
Headway House
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Fantastic opportunity to try something completely different; nice to get my hands dirty for a change!
Headway House offers social/leisure activities to people with a brain injury, their families and carers. It also provides an environment to share experiences and concerns with others. You can help with this, as people learn to adapt to the change in their lifestyle and feel less isolated in society. There are numerous ways to get involved from arts and crafts to horticulture to IT sessions. Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Sherwood
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www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering 21
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
My only regret is not getting involved with SVC sooner.
After training and approval, volunteers are carefully matched on a 1-to-1 basis with a child/young person in care. You will befriend and support the young person through monthly visits but what you do is dependent on their interests and hobbies. Typical visits involve an activity of some kind and a bite to eat. This can be as simple as a picnic in the park, a day at Alton Towers, or an afternoon paintballing/go-karting. Everyone is welcome to apply but males and volunteers from different ethnic backgrounds are particularly in demand.
Commitment: At least 1 visit per month (approx. 2 hrs) Location: Various Please note: A 2 year commitment is preferred to give the young person the stability & consistency they need in their lives, so this is not recommended for final year students. Also, excellent English language skills are needed for this role.
Inspire Through Inspire you can empower others to enjoy their lives. The project works with people with learning disabilities, supporting them to develop their potential. There are lots of opportunities including marketing or office work, assisting with music, drama or art sessions or just going on trips to the pub, shops or library. All help build social and independent-living skills. Inspire even have a charity shop where you can support someone to lend a hand – or even just help out for an hour yourself!
Commitment: 3 hrs per week Location: City Centre
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Independent Visitors (NYAS)
Lab in the Lorry
This interactive mobile science laboratory (yep, in a LORRY!) is run by science / engineering volunteers. It aims to give 11 – 14 year olds the opportunity to do science in the way it actually happens. So, experiments are exploratory and informed by curiosity and intuition, but they are also guided by experienced, practicing scientists. The Lorry’s greatest asset is its volunteers – that means YOU! – working scientists who want to share their time, enthusiasm and knowledge with young people.
Commitment: Min. of 2 full days (5 hours each)*Ideally volunteers would do several school visits each term/year Location: Various schools in Notts.
Lakeside Buddies This (on-campus) project aims to encourage more people to visit Lakeside Arts Centre. The Centre is one of the East Midlands’ premier arts venues. Volunteers are needed to help improve the diversity of Lakeside’s audience and ensure everyone can enjoy the activities and events on offer. Buddies may help disabled visitors to access all of Lakeside’s facilities, talk to visitors about their experiences, help as people arrive/leave for performances and serve refreshments.
Commitment: Flexible (min. 1 – 2 hrs per week) Location: Lakeside, University Park
22 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Literacy Volunteers
Manning Mentoring
This project helps children throughout Notts. to enjoy reading. Volunteers work in primary schools with children who are finding reading difficult. You won’t teach reading. Instead you’ll talk, read and play word games on a 1-to-1 basis to give children more confidence, and help them to enjoy reading. Training and support are given, and sessions are arranged at times/locations to suit you.
The Manning School is unique in that it is one of the only state maintained all-girls schools in Nottingham. A mentor is a person who is not a teacher or parent, but someone who can give a young person some time and support. You will meet each school half term, although there are opportunities to meet more frequently if you have the time. Previous student mentors have inspired girls from deprived backgrounds to believe in themselves and consider Higher Education as an option.
Commitment: 1 morning/ afternoon per week Location: Nottingham City & County schools
Commitment: 1.5 hrs per session (6 times a year) Location: Aspley
Macmillan Cancer Support
Marrow
Macmillan are always keen to welcome new volunteers to help raise awareness and vital funds. There’s a variety of ways you can get involved – from helping out at supermarket collections/local events to utilising your skills within the office environment. If you want to volunteer with one of the UK’s biggest cancer support charities then get in touch!
Marrow is the student branch of the Anthony Nolan Trust (ANT). Their aim is to “take back lives from leukaemia” through recruiting potential bone marrow donors to the national register. Volunteers are needed to help publicise Marrow’s cause, sign up fellow students to the ANT register and help raise vital funds to support the Trust.
Commitment – Flexible Location – Lenton / Various
Commitment: Varies (up to 2 hrs per week) Location: On Campus & Nottingham
Make-A-Wish Foundation Would you like to help Make-A-Wish grant magical wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening illnesses? Volunteers are needed in all areas to help promote the charity, raise valuable funds and help visit children to find out what their wishes are.
Commitment: Flexible Location: Various (On campus/City Centre)
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
National Autistic Society Befriending Scheme Befrienders spend time each week helping someone with Autism/Asperger Syndrome (or their families). This can include taking a child to the park or going along with a teenager to a Youth Club or aerobics class. You may meet up with an adult for lunch and a film or spend time listening and talking to a family member. You can even be an e-befriender and offer help/ support via email. Befriending can provide much needed support and offer a break to parents and siblings of those with Autism.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Various
New Art Exchange (NAE) NAE is the only dedicated Asian and African-Caribbean arts centre outside of London. This unique art / performance space needs volunteers to invigilate their 2 galleries and act as ushers for performances. You can also help artists with workshops, develop new projects and play a part in the Volunteer Involvement Programme (VIP). The VIP programme organises volunteer socials including nights out, gallery viewings and theatre performances.
Commitment: Varies (approx. 2 – 3 hrs per week) Location: Radford/Hyson Green
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It was a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Nottingham & Notts Refugee Forum Want to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures who have experienced things we can’t even imagine? Then Refugee Forum may be the place for you. The Forum works with and for Refugees and Asylum Seekers, providing advice services. They work with people to share and develop skills, socialise and help people integrate into their new host communities. As a volunteer you can help out as an advisor, admin/reception worker or interpreter.
Commitment: 3-4 hrs per week Location: City Centre
Nottingham Forest Community Coaching This scheme helps children from all walks of life gain more enjoyment from football. Volunteers can assist coaches from the City Ground working in schools across the city, teaching football skills to local pupils. The programme creates an environment where children can learn new skills and develop greater confidence and self-esteem. It also hopes to deflect young people from unsocial behaviour by engaging them in sport while encouraging them to be tolerant and co-operative.
Commitment: 3 hrs per week Location: Various
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24 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Nottingham Mencap Mencap enhances the quality of life of all those with a learning difficulty. They have 2 bases where volunteers can help. The first is a Social Enterprise with a café, shops, an ICT centre and a dedicated basic skills centre. The second is Harpenden House that offers a variety of daytime activities including catering, horticulture, IT, work skills, arts and crafts and performing arts. If you’d like to support people to enjoy these activities, or have a skill that you could teach/show off then this could be the opportunity for you.
Commitment: 3 hrs per week Location: City Centre / Sherwood (near City Hospital)
Nottinghamshire Clubs for Young People This Youth Organisation is based in Lenton but provides activities and events all over the City/County. Volunteers are vital for the yearly calendar of training, days out and sports sessions. The events range from a game of pool or a table-tennis tournament to camping trips and watersports days. You can get involved however you want – helping with a one-off event, a residential or joining the volunteer committee.
Commitment: Varies Location: Lenton/City and all over Notts
Nottinghamshire County Council – Sports Development Want to make yourself more employable when you graduate? Why not become a sports volunteer? You don’t have to be sporty to be a sports volunteer! You can get involved as a secretary, treasurer or fundraiser for a local club. Or you can volunteer at one of the many sports events across the county - either as a coach, official or just helping out.
Commitment: Flexible Location: Various
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust This is the major NHS provider of mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and older people, adult learning disability services and substance misuse services. Whether you have excellent people skills and want to befriend patients or clients, or specific skills and experience to offer alongside staff running groups or activities, however you want to get involved, there is an opportunity for you!
Commitment: Minimum 2 hrs per week (for at least 6 months) Location: Various
Nottinghamshire Hospice The Hospice (based near the City Centre) is committed to ensuring the best possible palliative care for adults with a life limiting illness. It also offers respite and support to patients’ carers. Volunteers are an essential part of the Hospice team working alongside patients and staff in Day-Care. You can help with everything from supporting activities/games to simply being there to chat to patients. Volunteers are also vital to the running of the Hospice’s shops.
Commitment: Varies (minimum 3 hrs per week) Location: Nottingham (and various shop locations)
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Nottinghamshire Royal Society for the Blind (NRSB) NRSB is a forward thinking charity that empowers its clients to improve their own independence rather than encouraging them to become dependent upon others. They offer services including a youth group, IT classes, home visits, and socials. All of which rely on volunteers to survive. NRSB also need volunteers for its resource centre, charity shops and fundraising department.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Radford
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust Many of the local Hospitals’ departments need regular help from volunteers. You can help provide a personal service which complements the provision of clinical care for patients served by the QMC and City sites. Volunteers must have good verbal communication skills and be flexible to meet the diverse needs of patients. Roles vary from Ward Befrienders to Meet & Greet volunteers for visitors.
Commitment: 6 months Location: QMC/City Hospitals, Nottingham
Nottingham Women’s Centre The Centre is run by women, for women and offers a safe environment providing counselling, training, information and support services. Volunteers are needed to help with the crèche which needs voluntary Childcare Assistants so you could help to provide activities to assist children’s development and learning.
Commitment: 3 hrs per week/ Flexible Location: City Centre
NUH Youth Service Want to cheer up children in hospital or young people with long-term medical conditions? The Nottingham Uni Hospitals’ daily drop-in sessions give young people on the wards an opportunity for fun, activities and support. Volunteers are also needed to help at a nearby Youth Club that gives young people a chance to take part in a range of activities whilst meeting others in similar situations. This is your chance to join a nationally recognised service and make a real difference to young people’s lives.
Commitment: Min. 3 hrs per week for 6 months. Daily drop-in sessions run Mon-Fri from 2.30pm – 5.30pm Youth Club sessions run Mon (6.30pm – 9.30pm) & Weds (6:30pm - 10pm) Location: QMC Campus / Monty Hind Youth Centre (next to the QMC)
Oakfield School All of Oakfield’s pupils (aged 3-19 years) have learning disabilities. Some also have physical disabilities. The school has a high number of teaching staff as well as assistants, therapists and medical staff. Pupils have gained from the input of lively and creative volunteers, who in turn have developed skills and an understanding of disabilities and special education. You can get involved in supporting extra-curricular drama, arts, dance, and poetry evening classes – as well as sports and general classroom support.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Near Nottm City Centre (Bilborough)
26 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Over The Wall
Playcentre
Over The Wall offer residential camps for children and young people aged 8-16 affected by serious illness. The aim is to provide fun, creative and challenging activities in a safe, secure and medically supervised environment. Campers enjoy drama, arts and crafts, sports, swimming, a chance to camp out, a disco night, talent shows and much more. You can assist and encourage the campers during their stay.
Based at the University of Nottingham this lively, fun centre provides care for (staff and students’) children aged 18 months – 5 years. It offers a range of daily activities to both stimulate and encourage the children to develop. Volunteers are needed to help out with activities – especially anyone with a skill or talent that you may be able to teach the children.
Commitment: 1 week + training Location: Dorset, Scotland & the Midlands
Commitment: At least 1 day per month (but more would be desirable) Location: University Park Campus, near the East Entrance.
Oxfam GB Oxfam works to find lasting solutions to poverty and suffering around the world. Over 700 shops and 22,000 volunteers help to raise the funds for their work. There are shops in Beeston and Nottingham city centre (including a Books & Music shop and a Clothing Boutique). You can be involved in all aspects of these: customer service; merchandising; sorting/pricing donations; even helping with their online sales.
Commitment: 4 hrs Location: Beeston / Nottm City Centre
Pearson Centre for Young People This youth and community centre works mainly with children/young people aged 5 – 18 years. Volunteers work with the Nottingham Boys’/Girls’ Brigade and help lead the ‘Friday Night Live’ youth work sessions. Through various activities you can help build confidence/self esteem, life and leadership skills. The activities include sports, arts and crafts, drama, music, IT and day trips. The Centre also has a new recording studio for you and the children to get to grips with!
Playing for Success Interested in education and sport? This scheme aims to raise the achievement and self-esteem of young people aged 10-14 from Primary and Secondary schools in the city. This is done by offering challenging and stimulating activities based around sport. So, there are 4 Playing for Success study centres (including Wicket! @ Trent Bridge Cricket Ground and Ace Base @ Nottingham Tennis Centre). There are additional centres at Nottingham Forest FC and the National Ice Centre. Although staffed by experienced teachers, volunteers are vital at the centres to help pupils develop key skills in literacy, numeracy and IT.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week (Mon – Thurs) Location: Various (as above)
Commitment: 2 – 3 hrs per week (for min. of 4 weeks) Location: Beeston
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Playworks Street Play Project
Reading Aunties & Uncles
Want to work with children, young people and their families in the community? If you like playing games, sports, or doing arts & crafts activities, this is for you! The Street Play Team helps children and their families to reclaim their street and local parks as places to play. As a volunteer you would help Playworks staff and other volunteers to deliver play sessions. By increasing the chances to play you will be helping to bring children, families and communities together, improve people’s sense of safety and help community cohesion. Full training and support is given.
Practising reading is an invaluable way to progress and gain confidence but children don’t always have this opportunity. 4 Nottingham libraries have started the Reading Aunties & Uncles scheme and need volunteers to read with children in their local library after school. This is a great way to get started in working with children and is an easy and flexible way to see if teaching/education is for you.
Radford Care Group This group offers elderly people a place to hang out, have fun and socialise. All of its visitors live independently but may feel isolated or lonely in the community. Volunteers are needed to help with the activities, meals and outings that the Care Group provides. You can help by lending a hand but also by offering support and a friendly ear.
Commitment: 2-3 hrs per week Location: Radford/Lenton
Radford Visiting Scheme
READ International This award winning charity (that started life as a student-led project) works to give Tanzanian students a brighter future. Volunteers collect unused educational resources from local schools then redistribute them in Tanzania. You’ll help build contacts with schools, collect and sort books, and then have the chance to spend your summer in Tanzania supporting READ’s overseas work. Fundraising is crucial to the project, so if you have any good ideas to get cash coming in, they’d love to hear from you!
Commitment: 1+ hr per week Location: Various (meetings are held on campus)
Would you like to befriend an elderly person or someone with disabilities who is lonely or isolated? Volunteers visit and support people to help them live as independently as possible. This includes joining clients on shopping trips and outings. The scheme also runs the Radford Healthy Living 50+ Project. This is a health awareness project (aimed at local residents aged over 50) that promotes healthy eating, physical activity and simple ways to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Commitment: 1-2 hrs per week Location: Radford/Lenton
28 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
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I have really enjoyed volunteering so far. I would love to get involved with more stuff!
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Commitment: Flexible (approx 2 – 3 hrs per week) Location: Various (Nottingham City)
Commitment: 1 hr per week (min. of half a term) Location: Sneinton, Aspley, Clifton, Bilborough
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Fire and Emergency Support Service Entirely staffed by volunteers, this service helps very vulnerable people at a time of crisis. It provides practical and emotional support to the victims of fire and flood. This is done at the scene of the incident in a specifically adapted/equipped vehicle. No experience is necessary as full training is given. (NB: All volunteers must live within 30 mins of Stockhill Fire Station)
Commitment: Flexible Location: City Centre/Stockhill
Home From Hospital Want to help people get back on their feet after being in hospital? Volunteers visit discharged patients for a few hours a week helping out with the shopping or lending an ear, to help people feel less vulnerable.
Commitment: Flexible (minimum 1 - 2 hr per week) Location: Varies
Clothes Donation Project Want to help refugees who are in real need? This student-led project helps collect unwanted clothes from students living in halls and then distributes them to refugees who can’t afford to buy clothing. They need approx. 30 volunteers who can help publicise the Donation Days at the end of the first / last term and help collect and sort the clothes.
Fundraising and Events Want to raise funds for a major international organisation? You can help as much or as little as you like, on a regular basis or not, it’s up to you. There are tons of different ways to help. Events Organisers are needed to put the fun into fundraising. From Quiz Nights to Barn Dances to Summer Garden Parties – Red Cross need your ideas, enthusiasm and skills! Volunteers are also needed in the Fundraising Office where you can help market and promote events to supporters and sponsors.
Commitment: Flexible (1-2 hrs minimum) Location: Various
Youth and Schools This project acts as part of Red Cross’ work to help individuals / communities in crisis. Volunteers are needed to help provide appropriate activities (fun, games, or just someone to talk to) for young people in times of crisis. A recent example would be the floods of 2007 when communities were evacuated to rest centres. You would be fully trained in all areas of the role including First Aid (once trained, you’ll also be able to assist with First Aid at local events).
Commitment: At least 1 evening per week Location: Various
Commitment: Approx. 2 – 5 hrs per term Location: On campus
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Refugee Support Volunteer mentors offer 1-to-1 support to refugees following a positive decision to their asylum application. You will offer advice on people’s options for housing, education and employment as well as helping to build their confidence and language skills (where applicable). This is a great opportunity for anyone wanting to gain experience of working with refugees or develop their skills/ knowledge in matters of housing, welfare, education, employment and advice work. (NB: All Volunteer Mentors MUST be British citizens)
Commitment: 4 - 6 hrs per month (for a min. of 3 months) Location: Near City Centre (Trent Bridge)
Rosehill School This is a specialist school for pupils with a diagnosis of an Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The School has its own distinctive approach, employing a range of methods including Art, Music and Speech Therapy, and with a great emphasis on Creative and Sensory interaction to deliver the Curriculum. All these approaches help to decrease the pupil’s anxieties and help them to reach their full potential. As a volunteer you would provide support to students and staff.
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I volunteered at a local primary school and it was a brilliant experience!
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Samaritans This is a long standing, national organisation that provides a 24-hour service offering confidential, emotional support by phone, e-mail, letter and face-to-face contact. This is for anyone experiencing feelings of distress and despair, including those that may lead to suicide. Each branch is completely volunteer-run, and Nottingham Samaritans have opportunities for both Samaritan and fundraising work.
Commitment: Varies (2 – 3 hrs per week) Location: City Centre Please note: A minimum commitment of 1 year is preferred so final years are not recommended to apply.
Commitment: 2-4 hrs per week Location: Carlton
30 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Primary Schools Beeston Fields Primary
A large primary school close to University Park’s West Entrance. Volunteers can be involved in a variety of classes with focus on helping some of the younger children with their reading.
Beeston Rylands Junior
The school believes in team work: staff, pupils, parents, volunteers, governors and the local community working together, to make Beeston Rylands Junior School a place to be proud of!
John Clifford Primary
Volunteers are needed to help run enrichment sessions. You can be involved in teaching children a variety of extra-curricular activities each week, as well as supporting the many events that run at the school throughout the year.
Berridge Infant
Based in Hyson Green, 10 mins from the City Centre, this diverse school invites volunteers to be involved in a number of classes and school trips.
Trent Vale Infants
This school (set in the Rylands area of Beeston) has its very own spacious grounds which the pupils and volunteers help maintain with a gardening club.
Robert Shaw Primary
Close to Jubilee campus Robert Shaw involve volunteers in all aspects of the school and teachers like having extra help in the classes they run.
Radford Primary
A bustling primary school with all kinds of fun activities happening all day for volunteers to get stuck into!
Dunkirk Primary
Volunteers are needed at this school who can commit for up to 6 months as they want students to integrate and be part of their community.
Southwold Primary
This school close to Jubilee has various curricular and extracurricular activities. They need students with a range of skills to help in classes – from reading stories to assisting in with science / music lessons.
Sutton Bonington Primary
If you live or have classes in Sutton Bonington this is the perfect volunteer project for you. Integrate with the school and also help brighten their expanding outdoor areas.
Most schools need volunteers for approx. 1 morning / afternoon per week.
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Scouts Save The Children Fancy a real retail challenge? Want to re-fashion the charity shop image? Interested in books, clothes or music? Save The Children is an international charity committed to saving lives in emergencies, campaigning for children’s rights, and improving their futures through long-term development work. They want to make their shops stand out from the competition and need creative and energetic volunteers to help. AND their local shop is just a stone’s throw from Lenton - on Derby Road!
Commitment: Minimum 4 hours per week (for 3 months) Location: Between Lenton and City Centre
School Governors One-Stop Shop (SGOSS) This charity recruits volunteers to become governors in schools. Schools really benefit from having a mixed group of School Governors. Students (along with their CVs and future employment prospects!) benefit hugely from volunteering as School Governors too. If you’d like to make a real difference to the education system and lives of local school pupils this is your chance. Commitment: 3 meetings per year Location: Various Schools in the Nottingham area Please note: as SGOSS asks for a substantial commitment (over 1 year) it is not recommended that final year students apply
Nottinghamshire Scouts is part of the world’s biggest youth organisation with over 10 million youth members. Scouting gives opportunities to all young people to experience a wide range of activities ranging from climbing to kayaking, rafting to pot holing. You can get involved at all levels from helping to run and plan activities to administration. The organisation has now been running for 100 years providing fun and activities, which encourage young people to work together and get outdoors.
Commitment – 3 hrs per week Location – Various around Notts (including Lenton Abbey)
SHARE Uganda A group of students went to Uganda to volunteer and were shocked by what they saw. They came back with the passion and dedication to help fight AIDS and HIV and raise funds to help more children to be able to attend school. You can play a vital role in this work by helping to organise and run events to raise funds and awareness. From 5-a-side football tournaments to club and film nights, it’s up to you what you do to get the cash rolling in!
Commitment: 1 - 2 hrs per week Location: Various (mainly on campus)
Shelter Shelter offers confidential, independent and free advice on homelessness, domestic violence, disrepair and rent/ mortgage arrears. Its aim is to empower and support service users to take control of their housing issues. In order to do this, reliable, flexible volunteers are vital to support housing professionals. Roles include housing advice, admin, reception and project research work.
Commitment: 1 day per week (for a minimum of 6 months) Location: Nottingham City
32 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Side by Side Befriending Scheme This scheme provides volunteer befrienders for people in the early stages of dementia who live at home. They aim to maintain links with the community, reduce isolation, and provide stimulation through companionship and support. Your role can vary depending on each person’s needs. It may involve going to the pub, walking, visiting places, or simply chatting over a cup of tea.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Various
SIFE Nottingham SIFE is a global not-for-profit organisation that encourages students to set up project teams to help the community in a sustainable and enterprising way. The Nottingham team continue to work with disadvantaged young people, school children, local charities and businesses – and even run projects internationally. It’s a great way to improve your skills while helping others and sponsors (including Accenture, Deloitte and Procter & Gamble) often recruit directly from SIFE Nottingham. More enthusiastic volunteers are needed to get new projects underway in 09/10.
Commitment: Varies Location: Various
St. Ann’s Allotments (STAA) Want to help promote and enhance the oldest and largest allotments in Europe? This Grade 2 listed site needs volunteers to help with various new opportunities. You can help with everything – from researching / recording the history of the site to getting stuck into some practical conservation work, renovating plots and helping local wildlife. Volunteers can even join a Project Working Group for the allotments and oversee the whole thing. This is perfect for anyone interested in history/heritage work. So, if you’re a budding Oddie, Attenborough or Titchmarsh, we need you!
Commitment: Approx 2 – 4 hrs per month Location: Near City Centre
Stonebridge City Farm This inner city farm is run for the benefit of users with a range of issues (including learning difficulties, physical disabilities, mental health issues and disadvantaged young people). All the work is done by the clients with staff/volunteer support. Using horticulture and animal husbandry, disadvantaged people are able to develop their work, social and personal skills in a real working environment. Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: St Anns
Students For Safe Motherhood This student led project is linked to the Nottingham based international healthcare charity CAI. CAI is dedicated to saving the lives of seriously ill children, babies and mothers-to-be in some of the world’s poorest countries. Students for Safe Motherhood aims to raise greater awareness of maternal health care issues. You can help by campaigning, lobbying, raising funds/awareness, organising events and undertaking research.
Commitment: Various (approx 1 - 2 hrs per week) Location: Varies (on campus/ around Nottingham)
Surface Gallery This Gallery is an independent contemporary arts space in the City Centre that showcases new art from all over Britain and beyond. Since opening in 1999, it has been run entirely by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis. You can get involved in all areas of running the gallery from fundraising and organising events to selecting and setting up exhibitions.
Commitment: Varies (preferably at least 1 day/2 half days per week) Location: City Centre
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
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I’ve been involved with Tag Rugby for two years now and have found it to be an amazing project…
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Tag Rugby Coaching Now in its 7th year, this project has successfully helped coach over 600 primary school children. Coaching takes place at schools near the university for a 5 week period (from January – April). After this, a festival is held on campus and the winners of the tournament get to play against Trent’s winning team at a Varsity match. As with all the Varsity matches pride comes with victory and after losing last year a win is all-important in 09/10! All volunteer coaches gain a (FREE!) RFU-recognised coaching qualification.
Commitment: 2 hrs per week (for 5 – 6 weeks) Location: Various City / Beeston Primary Schools
The Lenton Centre (TLC) This is a pioneering social enterprise at the heart of Lenton. Local people bought the Community/Leisure Centre from the City Council and are now entirely responsible for running it. It aims to be a hub of local activity for everyone offering education, health and therapy facilities. You can get involved with all aspect of the centre. From designing publicity materials, helping with funding bids, or just lending a hand in the gym for a few hours, there’s something for everyone.
Commitment: Various (from 1+ hr per week) Location: Lenton
Tools For Self Reliance (TFSR) Want to help people in the developing world? TFSR volunteers repair old, unwanted tools and sewing machines to give them a valuable second lease of life overseas. Tools are collected, refurbished in the TFSR workshop (on campus) then sent in complete kits to Africa. The project has a massive impact both in the UK and abroad, creating new opportunities for people. It’s a very hands-on way to tackle the root causes of poverty and overseas debt. No experience is necessary and all students (male/female) are welcome.
Commitment: 1 – 3 hrs (Wednesday PM drop-in) Location: University Park Campus
Trinity RC Comprehensive School This mixed Voluntary Aided Catholic Comprehensive School is based in Aspley. There are opportunities for students to get involved with Pupil Mentoring (for pupils aged 13-14), Special Education Needs Support and assisting in the classroom.
Commitment: Various (min. ½ hr per week) Location: Aspley
University of Nottingham Samworth Academy The principal of this new secondary school is looking for an imaginative and passionate group of student volunteers. The group will work with staff to make a difference to the school and local area of Bilborough. You can get involved in various ways from producing works of art or environmental gardens to working with small groups of pupils to help raise their self esteem. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to play a fundamental part in a project of national significance.
Commitment: Flexible (1 year commitment preferable) Location: Varies
34 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
Urban Nature This practical environmental project is a must for anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation or a love of being outside. The project took over a patch at St Ann’s allotments (a real wildlife haven less than a mile from the city centre!) and now visits once a week to transform it. This group project is a great chance to meet likeminded people, and have a direct impact on a very worthwhile and beautiful site. How you get involved is up to you, volunteers are currently involved in research, promotions and the management committee, as well as hands-on practical conservation work.
Commitment: 3+ hrs per week Location: St Ann’s allotments near City Centre
Victim Support in Nottinghamshire - Witness Service Witness Service volunteers are court-based and offer free, confidential, emotional and practical support to people attending court as a witness. You would help witnesses become familiar with the court before the trial, offer support on the day of the trial and give information about court procedures. You may also arrange further help after court if required. There are specialised opportunities available for suitable volunteers in the Coroner’s Court or with children/young people. Accredited training, ongoing support and supervision are given.
Commitment: ½ day per fortnight (for at least 1 year)* Location: Various (Nottinghamshire)
Victim Support in Nottinghamshire - Victim Service Victim Support is an independent charity for people who have been affected by crime. As a volunteer you would offer free, confidential, emotional and practical support to victims of crime (whether or not the crime has been reported to the Police). This is done over the phone or with home visits. Specialised opportunities are available for suitable volunteers to work with victims of serious crimes. Accredited training, ongoing support and supervision are given.
Commitment: Approx. 2 hrs per week (for at least 1 year)* Location: Various (Nottinghamshire)
*Please note: it is not recommended that final year students apply – unless you can definitely commit for at least 12 months
Vitalise Vitalise provides respite care for people with disabilities at residential centres in Nottingham, Merseyside, Essex, Southampton and Cornwall. This allows the carer to have a break while the disabled person has the opportunity to go on a holiday. You can help with all aspects of the holiday to ensure guests have the best possible time. Training is provided, and full time staff are on hand 24 hours a day to support you.
Commitment: One-week residential Location: West Bridgford, Nott’m (or one of the other centres across the UK)
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Volunteer Centre Broxtowe Based in Beeston Town Centre, this project needs volunteers for a variety of roles. You can help out as a receptionist welcoming people to the centre and offering admin support. Or you can be a Careline telephonist to help older people who may be isolated or lonely. Also, Befrienders are required to visit people in the local community to provide companionship.
Commitment: 1 – 3 hrs per week Location: Beeston
Wildlife Trust
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust aims to promote wildlife conservation in the county. They manage over 60 Nature Reserves from woodland to wetlands to old quarries and gravel pits. There are a number of roles available. You can work outside helping with practical Reserve Management, or you could deliver fun educational activities in schools/outdoors. Or you can stay in the warmth of the office helping with admin, PR/marketing, campaigning or casework.
Commitment: Varies Location: Various
Working in Tandem
(WiT)
This student led organisation supports educational projects in Tanzania. WiT currently support an education centre built by Nottingham students in 2005. It provides free education for the local community and now includes a kindergarten. WiT also supports a community primary school in a neighbouring village. They aim to raise awareness within the university and wider community about issues surrounding Africa and its development. Volunteers are needed to help publicise and raise funds and awareness for these centres. In the summer, you will also possibly have the chance to travel to Tanzania to volunteer at the projects.
Commitment: 1 hr weekly meeting + one-off events / fund-raising Location: Weekly meetings help in Portland building
WRVS This national charity helps 1000s of older people every year. Volunteers are needed for 3 of their services in Nottingham. You can volunteer in their hospital Coffee Shops lending a hand with everything from making fancy coffees to paperwork and admin support. If that’s not your cup of coffee (!), you can help by delivering books and music to older people in the community, providing them with important companionship and a link with the outside world. Alternatively, you could join the Emergency Services Support Team where you’ll help set up evacuation centres during a flood or crisis.
Commitment: Minimum 2/3 hours per week - Coffee Shop / Books on Wheels 1 to 2 call-outs per year - Emergency Services Support Team Location: QMC / Various
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The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
YMCA As the biggest provider of extra-curricular sports in schools, YMCA needs friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to support their staff team. This is a varied and exciting role, delivering over 20 different sports to children aged 4-14. You will assist with school holiday courses. As a sports coach, you can help children become stronger individuals and provide positive activities for their spare time. If you enjoy sport - this is the one for you!
Commitment: Flexible Location: Various
Young Enterprise – Primary Programme Designed for pupils aged 5-11, this scheme provides “building blocks” for skills development and understanding the world of work through practical, fun activities. Pupils learn about how and why individuals, families, communities and nations work together. You can work alongside a teacher presenting a series of 5 fun, interactive sessions. Materials and lesson plans are provided and full training is given.
Commitment: 5 x 1 hour sessions (over a week / in a single day) Location: Various
Young Potential (YP) YP works with young people aged 13-25 who live with disadvantage such as crime, poverty, family breakdown, violence or abuse. They provide intensive coaching and ongoing support to enable the young people to engage with social responsibility, citizenship and new opportunities in their communities. You can support the young people in different projects from schools, gardening or sports to 1-to-1 mentoring, one-off projects or helping with the project admin (including design/web development).
Youth Offending Team QUEST mentors act as positive role models to guide and support young people, raising their confidence and self-esteem. Mentors also support the Reconnect team, which helps young people improve their basic skills. As an Appropriate Adult you stand in for a child’s parent/carer during police interviews, ensuring they are conducted properly. Volunteers can also become members for Referral Order Panel Meetings. They discuss factors influencing offending, and the consequences of the offence with all parties involved, and make regular progress checks.
Commitment: Varies (1 year commitment required)* Location: Various *Please note: it is not recommended that final year students apply – unless you can definitely commit for at least 12 months
ZambiAIDS This Student Led Project supports people with AIDS in Zambia by fundraising for the charity PEPAIDS. ZambiAIDS want people to join and help make a real difference to people’s lives in Zambia. You can help out as much or as little as you like from putting up posters around campus to organising a club event to raise money and awareness.
Commitment: Flexible – as little as a few hours a year! Location: Various (on campus / City Centre)
Commitment: Various Location: Beeston/City Centre
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
38 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering
The University of Nottingham Students’ Union
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Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook
Mission Statement
“
To provide a diverse range of volunteering opportunities to enable students to learn new skills and enhance their personal development.
“
SVC volunteers are informed, supported and active within the Students’ Union and wider community.
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Student Record Form First Name:
Middle Name(s):
Last Name:
University Number:
Year of Study (e.g. 2 of 3)
Telephone:
___ of ___ Date of Birth:
University Email:
Email 2:
Do you have a skills/talent that would benefit some of our project’s service users? Please tell us about your skills here: For example do you: play the guitar/ sing / speak a 2nd language / play a sport?
Please enter the projects and volunteering roles that you are interested in: Project: e.g. Oxfam
Role: e.g. Classroom Assistant
Code of conduct/disclaimer:
I understand that by participating in any volunteering activity through the Centre I am acting as a representative of the University of Nottingham Students’ Union. I agree to the use of my photo or likeness for publicity purposes at the discretion of the Student Volunteer Centre and its partners.
Signed:
Date:
For Office Use Only. Please Do Not Fill In. Volunteering Activities: Project
Additional Information:
Role
Date Referred
By Whom
new paths.
Discovering fresh challenges. The opportunity to explore
At Deutsche Bank we believe volunteering is a great chance to develop new skills, meet people and have fun. This is why we are proud to be supporting the Student Volunteer Centre. Volunteering is an integral way for us at Deutsche Bank to reach out to the communities our people live in, work in and rely on. As a graduate you will be involved in community programs designed to enhance the quality of education, improve employability skills, support entrepreneurship, and identify opportunities to actively engage within the community. Expect the better career. Find out more at www.db.com/careers
A Passion to Perform.
Student Volunteer Centre, Students’ Union Portland Building, The University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD T: 0115 8468750 E: volunteering@nottingham.ac.uk
Printed on recycled paper. This handbook is available in alternative formats on request.