Volunteer Opportunities - Winter / Spring 2014 by Volunteering Kirkleess

Hundreds of local volunteer opportunities inside.

Spring 2014

 get practical  develop skills  help out  have fun  make friends solve problems  challenge yourself

volunteeringkirklees.org.uk

@vckirklees

VOLUNTEERING KIRKLEES HAS MOVED! We’re now near the bus station at 8 Upperhead Row, Huddersfield HD1 2JN Call us, email us, or drop in for a chat to find out more: 01484 519053, vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk,

e are your local expert in volunteering. We help individuals to find interesting and rewarding opportunities as well as supporting organisations that involve volunteers. We are an independent charity and an accredited Volunteer Centre, this means we can put local volunteer opportunities on the national www.doit.org.uk database, contact us if you have opportunities to publicise.

Why Volunteer? Here are a few reasons, you might have others: Meet new people Gain real skills, experience and training Feel useful Boost your job prospects Make a positive contribution to your community Improve your health and wellbeing Make a difference This booklet has some of the latest local opportunities for volunteers, but it’s just a sample. There are new opportunities being created every week; check our website and www.do-it.org.uk for updates.

A quick guide to getting started 1. Take a look at the rest of this booklet. The FAQs on the next page will answer some of your questions. The opportunities listed later on will give you a feel for the variety of roles available. 2. Think about what kind of roles you’re interested in, what types of organisations you’d like to volunteer with, what skills you already have and what skills you’d like to gain/develop, where you’d like to volunteer and how often.

3. Once you have an idea of the type(s) of role(s) you are looking for you can either: visit www.do-it.org.uk website to search through the local opportunities yourself (or come see us to use our computer). come to see us at 8 Upperhead Row, Huddersfield, HD1 2JN Mon – Thurs (10am-3pm). We also run a weekly session at Dewsbury Library every Thursday morning (10am-1pm).

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions, Who can volunteer? Almost anyone can volunteer, including: Young people Job seekers Older people Refugees and asylum seekers

Busy people People with a criminal record Students People receiving benefits

What can I offer? Your time, enthusiasm and skills. Everyone has got something to offer (even if you don’t think that you have). To help find the right thing for you think about what you’d like to get out of being a volunteer.

How old do I have to be? Most volunteering opportunities are open to anyone over 18. Come and see us or go to www.volunteeringkirklees.org.uk for details of opportunities for under 18s.

How can Volunteering Kirklees help you to get started? We can: Help you decide on the kind of voluntary work you may want to try Provide information on the wide range of available opportunities Give you details (names, addresses, phone numbers) of organisations looking for volunteers and explain more about their work Give ongoing support, such as helping to make appointments and fill out forms Outline what you should expect as a volunteer / what is expected of you Text you the details of the latest opportunities via our Texting Service

Will there be an interview? And references? Maybe. Some organisations have set processes (application form, references, trial periods etc) others may not. Roles which involve working with vulnerable people (children, young people, people with disabilities and some older people) often require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, this is the new name for a criminal records check (CRB check). Having a criminal record does not mean that you can’t volunteer. It all depends on the nature of your conviction, how recent it was, the kind of volunteering you are interested in and the organisation where you wish to volunteer. Contact us for more information and advice.

Will volunteering help me to get paid work? There are no guarantees, but building up your skills, trying out different roles and having hands-on experience are all positives. Volunteering can provide current examples of your abilities as well as recent references. In a recent survey 94% of employers said they believed that volunteering can add to skills and 73% said they would employ a candidate with volunteering experience over one without.

Our website www.volunteeringkirklees.org.uk is regularly updated, or find us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/volcentrekirklees) and on Twitter (@vckirklees). We also have a free text service, sending the latest opportunities direct to your mobile. Visit www.volunteeringkirklees.org.uk to sign up or pop by to see us.

How do I keep up with the latest opportunities?

Overview of opportunities Yorkshire Children’s Centre (Pass it Here is a list of all the opportunities in this booklet organised into categories. Look through On) the rest of the booklet (A-Z by the name of the host organisation) to find more details.

Advice and support Action on Hearing Loss Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Askham Bryan College Carers Count Fusion Housing Prince’s Trust Remploy Stroke Association West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy (WYCCP) Animal care / activities Dial Wood Carriage Driving for the Disabled RSPCA West Yorkshire Dog Rescue Befriending and mentoring Action On Hearing Loss Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Askham Bryan College Better Future For The Blind Carers Count Cauldwell Children Cloverleaf Advocacy Communities United Project Denby Dale Centre Leonard Cheshire Disability Making Space Mencap in Kirklees Mentoring and Befriending FND Prince’s Trust RVS Kirklees Society For The Blind Yorkshire Children’s Centre Catering / food projects Friend to Friend Longwood Village Group Lorna Young Foundation Oakes Community Cafe Poppies Café The Welcome Centre

Charity shops / retail Cancer Research DEBRA Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Kirkwood Hospice PDSA Dewsbury & Brighouse Sense Sue Ryder Uniform Exchange United Churches Healing Ministry

Criminal justice/working with offenders West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy (WYCCP) West Yorkshire Police Driving Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Denby Dale Centre Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Friend To Friend Kirkwood Hospice One Good Turn RVS Kirklees Yorkshire Children’s Centre Event organisation Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Friend To Friend Lorna Young Foundation Finance, accounts etc Disabled People’s Electronic Village Hall Fundraising Action On Hearing Loss Cancer Research DEBRA DEMAND Denby Dale Centre Dial Wood Carriage Driving for the Disabled Friend To Friend Hollybank Trust Laura Crane Cancer Trust Leonard Cheshire Disability RSPCA Stroke Association United Churches Healing Ministry Gardening, DIY and conservation Canal and Rivers Trust Leonard Cheshire Disability Mencap in Kirklees Stirley Community Farm Trans Pennine Trail Health and social care Age UK Carers Count Communities United Project Community Service Volunteer Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Kirklees Council (Gateway to Care) Lifeline Kirklees Making Space

Mencap in Kirklees Specialist Autism Services Stanley’s Training Project Stroke Association The Welcome Centre Marketing / publicity Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Communities United Project Dark Horse Theatre Denby Dale Centre / Kirkburton Hub DEBRA Hollybank Trust Leonard Cheshire Disability Lorna Young Foundation NSPCC Prostate Cancer UK Ruddi’s Retreat West Yorkshire Police Museums, arts and culture Dark Horse Theatre Lawrence Batley Theatre National Coal Mining Museum for England Sports and health activities Age UK Communities United Project Leonard Cheshire Disability Supporting learners Askham Bryan College Citzens Online Communities United Project Denby Dale Centre / Kirkburton Hub Disabled People’s Village Hall Fusion Housing Lawrence Batley Thestre Stanley’s Training Project Yorkshire Children’s Centre

Trustee / Committee Members Better Future For The Blind Communities United Project DEBRA Denby Dale Centre / Kirkburton Hub Disabled People’s Electronic Village Hall Friend To Friend RSPCA School Governors’ One Stop Shop Slaithwaite Community Association The Welcome Centre West Yorkshire Dog Rescue Office / admin support DEMAND Denby Dale Centre / Kirkburton Hub Disabled People’s Electronic Village Hall Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Fusion Housing Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust The Welcome Centre Lifeline Kirklees One Good Turn Shopmobility Youth work / children’s issues Cauldwell Children Communities United Project Community Service Volunteers DEBRA Girl Guides National Citizen Service (NCS) NSPCC Prince’s Trust Scouts Yorkshire Children’s Centre

Please note, this is just a sample of the many opportunities available. For full, updated listings visit www.do-it.org.uk or come to see us at the Volunteer Centre.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Spring 2014 Here are some of the many opportunities currently available (listed A to Z by name of organisation). Please contact Volunteering Kirklees for more details about these and many more. Confidential appointments are always available. Action On Hearing Loss (formerly the RNID) Org Details: Working to reduce the impact hearing loss and tinnitus has on people’s lives, also provides information on looking after your hearing. Featured Role:Befriender – provide support and friendship to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness experienced by people with hearing loss. Involves home visits and helping with everyday activities such as trips out (locally). DBS check required. Support: Out of pocket expenses, training provided Commitment: Flexible – weekdays or weekends Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Fundraisers, Hear To Meet Volunteers, Information & Outreach Volunteers Age UK (Calderdale & Kirklees) Org Details: Providing older people with a variety of services, including information & advice, advocacy & support, day care & befriending. Featured role: Befriender – visiting older people at home (including care homes) to chat, listen, do crosswords and help with small tasks. DBS check required. Support: Travel expenses and induction training provided for all roles Commitment: Varies Location: Calderdale and Kirklees Other roles: Day Care Helper, Drivers, Home from Hospital, Marketing and Events, Meeters and Greeters, Swimming Project Helpers and Social Media Marketing Askham Bryan College Org Details: Helping people who are unemployed to find new directions, as well as young people wanting ideas for their future. Featured Role:Classroom Support – helping learners (aged 16-25) on the Prince’s Trust Programme. Involves offering encouragement, checking people understand tasks etc. Each programme lasts for 12 weeks and covers team building, a residential (optional), working on a community project, progression routes and a team challenge. DBS check required. Support: Travel expenses only. Informal training provided, may be able to access formal training such as First Aid Commitment: Sessions take place on weekdays Location: Based in central Huddersfield

Better Future For The Blind Org Details: A befriending service for people with sight loss, aiming to reduce loneliness and isolation. Featured Role:Befrienders – a weekly visit to provide company and friendship. DBS check required. Support: Induction training provided Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Activity Club Volunteers, Committee Members

Canal and River Trust Org Details: Caring for 2,000 miles of waterways in England & Wales, the trust works to inspire as many people as possible to connect with their canals & rivers. Featured Role:Huddersfield Broad Towpath Taskforce – a drop in session (10am-3pm on the 2nd Friday of every month) for volunteers to help with painting, weeding, cutting back vegetation, litter picking and general maintenance. Location: Huddersfield Other: Latest Towpath Taskforce dates can be found via the www.canalrivertrust.org.uk website Other Roles: Lead Volunteer, Lock Keeper. Cancer Research UK Org Details: The world’s leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research. Featured Role:Breast Cancer Awareness Ambassadors – Helping to distribute information in local area, as well as contacting and encouraging them to support the ‘Join The Fight’ campaign. Support: Travel expenses paid, training provided Commitment: Weekdays or Weekends Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Fundraising Campaign Volunteers, Kirklees Action Team Members, Shop Worker Carers Count Org Details: Local project offering advice and information to adult carers. Gives carers a voice, provides training and raises awareness of their rights/issues. Featured Role:Befriender – offering one to one emotional and practical support to people caring for someone else. Helping them to make the most of any spare time they may have, to complete tasks or to relax and enjoy themselves. You may be asked to visit people at home. DBS check required. Support: Travel expenses only, training provided Commitment: Flexible Location: Based in central Huddersfield, roles cover all of Kirklees Cauldwell Children Org Details: A charity that provides family support services, equipment, treatment and therapies for disabled children and their families across the UK. Featured Role:Family Support Volunteer - help to provide vital support to families having a difficult time. Volunteers work with the Family Support Team to offer information, emotional and practical support at home. Support is offered to provide a safety net when families are facing a crisis or to prevent families reaching the point of crisis. DBS check required. Support: Training and travel expenses Commitment: Varies Location: Kirklees

Citizens Online Org Details: A national charity set up to make sure the Internet is available to everyone. Featured Role:Digital Champion – showing people the basics of using a computer, using the Internet, using email etc. Support: Induction training provided Location: Kirklees

Want to pop in to see us? We are open @ Volunteering Kirklees Mon – Thurs (10am – 3pm) or Thursdays @ Dewsbury Library (10am-1pm) Cloverleaf Advocacy Org Details: Cloverleaf help people to get their voice heard; they provide independent advocacy services for carers, older people, people with mental health needs, learning disabilities, physical and sensory impairments and people with brain injuries. Featured Role:Volunteer Befriender – providing one-to-one support to vulnerable adults who are socially isolated. Support can be given in person, over the telephone or in a group. DBS check required. Support: Travel expenses provided. Induction and on-going training available Commitment: Flexible Location: Dewsbury & Huddersfield Library (10a m Communities United Project Org Details: Working with under-resourced communities, helping them to set up and run sports and creative activities for young people. Featured Role:Sports Buddy -Supporting adults (including vulnerable adults) to take part in physical activity such as walking, sports, dance classes and swimming. Each scheme lasts for 12 weeks, after which it’s hoped that participants will be able to continue unassisted. No experience needed, but must be reliable and trustworthy. DBS check required. Commitment: Weekdays or Weekends Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Marketing Support, Multisports Coaching Assistants, Playscheme Helper, Trustees Community Service Volunteer (CSV) Org Details: Creating opportunities for people to take an active part in the life of their community. Featured Role:Full-time Social Care Volunteer – for people aged 18-35, a range of roles such as supporting families or individuals with disabilities or helping in a homeless shelter. Support: Free accommodation and £35 per week towards day-to-day expenses. Training available. Commitment: full-time 6-12 month placement, away from home Location: Across the UK

Dark Horse Theatre Org Details: A national touring theatre company (based in Huddersfield), producing new and innovative plays that feature actors with learning disabilities. Featured Role:Marketing Co-ordinator – Can you help spread the word about Dark Horse? Working with Dark Horse’s Marketing Team you’ll help to organise publicity (by email and phone) in the areas the company is touring to; contacting groups and organisations and providing information as required. Support: Travel expenses paid. Induction training offered Commitment: Weekdays, part time (minimum of 4 hours per session and overall commitment of at least 12 months) Location: Huddersfield

Call us, email us, or drop in for a chat to find out more: 01484 519053, vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk, Volunteering Kirklees, 8 Upperhead Row. Huddersfield, HD1 2JN DEBRA – Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association Org Details: Helping people affected by EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa) – a genetic disorder where the skin blisters and does not repair. The organisation promotes research and provides information and practical support. Featured Role:Charity shop volunteer – serving customers and sorting stock. Location: Kirklees. Holmfirth, Salendine Nook for shop based roles Other Roles: Cash Creators / Fundraisers, Fundraising Committee Member, Public Speaker, Social Media Guru, Youth Engagement Volunteers DEMAND (Design and Manufacture for Disability) Org Details: A national charity (Holmfirth base) that designs, manufactures and modifies everyday equipment to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Featured Role:Collection Box Placer & Collector – collect existing fundraising boxes, as well as identify new locations across Kirklees. Current sites include post offices, pubs and shops. Own transport desirable, but not essential. Support: Travel and some meal expenses. Commitment: Flexible, Weekdays or Weekends Location: Across Kirklees Other Roles: Administration Volunteer Denby Dale Centre / Kirkburton Hub Org Details: Working with the local community, the centre helps vulnerable people by tackling poverty and feelings of isolation. Featured Role:Volunteer Drivers –To drive the group’s minibus (or own car) to escort members to and from the centre. Location: Denby Dale and Kirkburton Other Roles: Activity Club Support Workers, Fundraising & Promotion Volunteers, IT Trainers, One to One Befrienders, Receptionist / Cashier, Trustees

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Dial Wood Carriage Driving For The Disabled Org Details: Enabling people with disabilities to carriage drive and spend time with ponies; this improves people’s health and well-being and helps them to achieve personal goals. Featured Role:Carriage Driving Helpers –Preparing ponies and accompanying users on carriage rides (providing assistance where necessary). Support: Induction training and travel expenses provided. Also offer volunteer qualifications. Location: Flockton Other Roles: Fundraisers, Stable Yard Helpers, Volunteer Co-ordinators

Disabled People’s Electronic Village Hall (DP-EVH) Org Details: An independent organisation providing computer education and training for disabled and disadvantaged people within West Yorkshire. Featured Role:Treasurer – use your experience of financial control and budgeting to join the other volunteers of the management committee, taking special responsibility to oversee the financial health of the organisation. Support: Travel expenses provided. Commitment: Regular meetings Location: Dewsbury

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Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Org Details: Offers nursing care, practical help, emotional support, therapies and play activities to life-limited children and their families at hospice at Brackenhall and when patients are at home. Featured Role:Family Support Volunteer – providing practical hands on support on home visits with members of the Care Team: eg help with bath/bedtime; play with siblings; tidying up or a listening = organisation has the Kirklees ear. Weekday evenings/weekends, 2Volunteering Quality Award (KVQA) 3 hours per week. which shows they use good practice Support: Training and travel expenses when involving volunteers. provided. Commitment: Range of times Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Event Drivers, Fundraiser, Retail Assistants, Admin Support

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Friend To Friend Org Details: A local charity offering activities for older people including: arm chair exercise, mobility and walking groups, monthly meals, a men’s group, arts and crafts, local history and monthly get togethers. Featured Role: Fundraisers – Helping with a variety of fundraising activities including events, corporate fundraising and grant applications. Support: Travel expenses provided for all roles, meals for some. Training provided. Location: Holmfirth and Netherton Other Roles: Activity Group Leader / Helper, Driver, Transport Organiser, Trustee Board Member, Group Leader, Walk Leader, Activity Group Helper, Cook

Fusion Housing Org Details: Supports young people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. This includes legal advice on housing issues, debt advice and tailored learning support. Featured Role:Charity Shop Sales Assistant helping with sorting and pricing goods as well as serving in Huddersfield town centre shop. Needs someone who can offer at least three hours, Mon-Sat daytime. Support: Travel & meal expenses available to those who volunteer for more than five hours.They build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. Location: Dewsbury and Huddersfield Other Roles: Work Club Admin Support, Administrator, Learning Support Volunteer

Girl Guides Org Details: Girlguiding gives girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships, gain valuable life skills and make a positive difference to their lives and their communities. Guides build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. Featured Roles: Leaders and Assistant Leaders must be female, they work with groups of girls (in age sets 5-7, 7-10, 10-14 and 14+) to plan and enjoy a range of fun activities, in a safe, relaxed and friendly environment. Training and ongoing support given (nationally recognised training scheme). DBS check required. Opportunities: Calder Division (Batley, Dewsbury and Mirfield) - Guide Leaders / Assistant Leaders  19th Huddersfield Golcar Guides - Guide Assistants (Weds evenings)  Huddersfield Ramsden Division - Leaders Support: Some expenses towards training may be available Commitment: Weekday evenings

Hollybank Trust Org Details: Hollybank Special School in Mirfield provides specialised education, therapy and care for children (5 to 19) with physical disability and complex needs. The Trust aims to reach beyond purely physical needs to nurture, develop and enrich lives. Featured Role:Fundraisers – To represent the Trust, assist with event organisation and publicity, bucket collections etc. Location: Kirklees Kirklees Council Wellbeing and Integration, Gateway to Care Services Org Details: Local council service - working to help local people get the health and social care information and support they need, all under one roof. Featured Role:Health Trainer Volunteer - one to one support to help someone to start going out again following a period of illness. Perhaps an older person who has lost confidence, or someone who wants to join the PALS programme at their local leisure centre. The aim is to reduce social isolation. DBS check required. Support: Training, travel and meal expenses provided Commitment: Part time, flexible Location: All over Kirklees Other Roles: Kirklees Council has a wide range of roles, from helping to run reading sessions at the local library to scrutinising council decisions, from meeting and greeting visitors to care homes to helping organise a festival. To find out more have a look at www.kirklees.gov.uk/leisure/volunteering

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Kirkwood Hospice Org Details: Provides specialist care (free of charge) to adults in Kirklees with advanced, progressive illnesses, respecting individual needs/wishes. Featured Role:Shop Workers - a variety of tasks including customer service, till operation, floor walking, steaming and ticketing items for sale. Support: Training provided Commitment: Weekdays and Saturday daytime, part time Location: All over Kirklees Other Roles: Drivers / Mini Bus Drivers am –3pm) or Thursdays @ Dewsbury Library ( Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust Org Details: Huddersfield based national charity - funding research into cancers affecting young people (ages 13-24) and providing support to the 38 hospitals admitting young cancer patients throughout the UK. Featured Role:Telephone Sales / Fundraiser – making calls (from fundraising department) to organisations and individuals, requesting support and seeking information to update records. Energy, enthusiasm and good communication skills essential. Support: Meal and travel expenses, ongoing training and support provided Commitment: Tuesday daytime, Thursday mornings or afternoons Location: Huddersfield Other Roles: Admin / Secretary, Mailshot Assistant

Call us, email us, or drop in for a chat to find out more: 01484 519053, vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk, Volunteering Kirklees, 8 Upperhead Row. Huddersfield, HD1 2JN Lawrence Batley Theatre Org Details: Huddersfield’s premier performance theatre which also runs a number of community activities and hosts local groups meetings. Featured Role:Youth Theatre Volunteer – supporting group leader with practical activities during Youth Theatre classes, including: games, warms up and creative exercises to young people (aged 6 to 17). DBS check required. Support: Ongoing training provided Commitment: Weekdays or Weekends Location: Huddersfield Other Roles: Volunteers Stewards / Kiosk Stewards / Trustee

Leonard Cheshire Disability Org Details: Charity promoting the independence of disabled people and upholding their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Featured Role:Sport Volunteers – Enthusiatic about sport? Can you encourage and support residents to participate in exercise activities? Support: Induction training provided, travel and some lunch expenses Location: Cleckheaton and Huddersfield Other Roles: Arts & Crafts Volunteers, Befrienders, Escort, Event Co-ordinator, Fundraisers, Gardener, Photography & Social Media Volunteers

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Lifeline Kirklees Org Details: A drug and alcohol treatment service that offers advice, information and support including counselling, harm minimisation, complementary therapies, education and employment support and referral to other specialist services. Roles: All volunteers receive training before deciding which role interests them. Roles include Support Group Helper, Office Support, and Counselling. Location: Dewsbury and Huddersfield Longwood Village Group Org Details: A volunteer-run coffee shop raises funds for local community facilities. Featured Role:Coffee Shop Volunteers – setting up tables, waiting on customers, taking orders, serving and clearing up. Support: Health and safety and basic hygiene training Location: Longwood

FREE TEXT ALERTS!

See page 23 for details of how to get the latest opportunities sent direct to your phone.

= organisation has the Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award (KVQA) which shows they use good practice when involving volunteers.

Want to pop in to see us? We are open @ Volunteering Kirklees Mon – Thurs (10am – 3pm) or Thursdays @ Dewsbury Library (10am-1pm) Lorna Young Foundation Org Details: A Huddersfield-based charity that supports and develops fair trade to reduce poverty in developing countries. Supports overseas smallholder producers in a range of ways including business education. Creates awareness of the need / benefits of trade justice amongst UK consumers. Featured Role:Coffee Lover! Help spread the word about the Oromo Coffee company by running stalls at local festivals and events. Oromo is owned by community growers in Ethiopia. Increasing their coffee sales provides work and training opportunities. Support: You’ll be given a tour of coffee roasting and be given training, support and equipment to run a stall. Out of pocket expenses Commitment: at least six months, a few hours per session (flexible) Location: Kirklees Making Space Org Details: Offers advice, information and support for people living with dementia, and their loved ones. Featured Role:Dementia Support Volunteer – providing emotional support and understanding to people living with dementia at informal groups (across Kirklees), eg making drinks, greeting attendees, encouraging involvement in group activities and talking to members. DBS check required Support: Travel and meal expenses. Induction training provided Commitment: Volunteers needed for a minimum of two hours. Sessions run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays. Location: Kirklees

Mentoring and Befriending Foundation (Equal Approach) Org Details: Recruiting volunteers to support disabled and disadvantaged individuals who face redundancy following the recent closure of Remploy factories. Featured Role:Volunteer Mentors / Befrienders – Providing practical and emotional support to people with a disability or disadvantage as they search for new employment. Meeting regularly to assist with application forms, visits to the job centre or just providing a listening ear when needed. Support: Travel expenses and training provided Commitment: Weekdays or Weekends Location: Kirklees

Mencap in Kirklees Org Details: Works with people who have learning disabilities and their families to enable them to lead full and purposeful lives. Featured Role:Volunteer Buddy– to befriend and support a person with a learning disability, to enable them to enjoy leisure and social activities. Meet up with them for a couple of hours once a week. DBS check required. Support: Travel and meal expenses are paid, volunteers receive induction training and ongoing support. Commitment: Weekdays/varies Location: All Kirklees Other Roles: Activity Club Worker, Social Group Volunteer, Gardening/Handyperson, Walking Group Volunteer (Sundays and Thursdays)

National Citizen Service (NCS) Org Details: The NCS is open to all 16 and 17 year olds in England and Northern Ireland, it is a short programme of outdoor activities and community work that helps build skills for work and life such as greater confidence, selfawareness and responsibility. After two short residential courses (outdoor activities followed by a local community focussed one) participants develop a social action project about a local issue and spend 30 hours putting the project into action in their community. DBS check required. Featured Role: Volunteer Activity Assistant – help to organise and deliver activities for 16 to 17 year olds that help them develop leadership, teamwork, decision making skills and understanding of community issues. You will mentor and coach groups and individuals and work as part of a team to see the group through the three stages of the NCS. Support: Travel and meals Commitment: You need to commit to a full scheme of the NCS this spring or summer: includes a five day residential outdoor activity course, then three to five days residential in Huddersfield, phase three then takes a full day plus extra hours to support young people in completing their community project. And finally to attend the NCS graduation ceremony to be held at the John Smiths Stadium. Location: Huddersfield and residential stay at outdoor activity centre. National Coal Mining Museum For England Org Details: Working to keep the long history and rich heritage of coal mining in England alive, the museum provides an enjoyable and inspiring way to learn for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Featured Role:Visitor Experience Volunteer– welcoming visitors and helping them to explore the museum to get the most out of their visit. Helping with researching new activities and resources and gathering feedback (Wednesday daytime). Support: Training provided Commitment: Varies. Location: Overton (between Huddersfield and Wakefield) Other Roles: Industrial Collection Volunteers, Photography Access Team

The Nerve Centre Org Details: Supporting people who live with neurological conditions (eg MS, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy etc). Provides, advice, therapies and activities. Featured Role:Admin / Reception Volunteer – Booking people in for therapies, handling enquiries (both in person & over the phone), providing info, as well as general admin tasks. Support: Travel expenses provided. Induction training available Location: Huddersfield Other: Volunteer Cleaner, Workshop and Room Preparer

NSPCC - ChildLine Schools Service Org Details: The ChildLine Schools Service uses specially trained volunteers to talk to primary school children (9 to 11 year olds) about abuse, giving them the skills to protect themselves and showing them where to go to for help. Featured Role:Programme Volunteer - become part of a local team of volunteers making a difference, using assemblies and classroom workshops to help encourage children to recognise situations where they may need help and letting them know how they can access support. DBS check required. Support: Travel expenses, training and on-going support Commitment: One day a week during term time, training and meetings during schooll hols Location: Kirklees

Call us, email us, or drop in for a chat to find out more: 01484 519053, vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk, Volunteering Kirklees, 8 Upperhead Row. Huddersfield, HD1 2JN Oakes Community Café (Oakes Baptist Church) Org Details: Provides good wholesome, affordable food in friendly surroundings. A not for profit café for the local community. Featured Role:Café / Kitchen Assistant – helping to make the café happen: serving food, washing up, clearing tables and preparing food. Support: Training and meals provided. May pay travel expenses. Commitment: Minimum commitment of two months Location: Oakes, Huddersfield Other: Experience of kitchen work beneficial, but not essential One Good Turn Org Details: Helping to redistribute goods, clothes and furniture to people who need them via Facebook. The group also holds a regular social coffee group. Featured Role:Drivers – to collect donated clothes / items and deliver to the organisation / Item Listers for sorting and online promotion. Full driving licence required (preferably clean). Support: Travel and meals (if volunteering for a full day) induction training available Commitment: Flexible Location: Across Kirklees Other Roles: Item Lister, Leaflet Distributors Oxfam Online Batley Org Details: Working to overcome poverty and suffering. Oxfam’s online hub offers a broad range of distinctive, sought-after and valuable donations for sale. Featured Role: Volunteer Recruitment Co-ordinator - this role is to create and recruit for a significant number of unique and diverse volunteer roles. You’ll need to network to ensure good community links for volunteer recruitment. Support: Training, travel and meals expenses Commitment: Weekdays Location: Batley Other Roles: Photographer (take pictures of goods for sale), Online Shop Volunteer, Receptionist / Admin

PDSA Dewsbury Org Details: Provides free treatment to the sick and injured pets of people in need (pets in need of vets!). Also promotes responsible pet ownership. Featured Role:Retail Assistant – Help to run the Dewsbury shop. Duties include serving customers and keeping the store premises clean and tidy. Support: Travel expenses, full training provided for all aspects of the role Commitment: Part time (Four hour sessions, three month min commitment), Weekdays Location: Dewsbury

Poppies Café ( AgeUK and MENCAP) Org Details: A new café at Holme Valley Memorial Hospital offering a friendly service to hospital users and training opportunities for people with learning disabilities. Featured Role:Volunteers are wanted to help out with food and drinks preparation; serving customers and keeping a welcoming atmosphere in the café. Support: Travel expenses and refreshments. Induction and appropriate training provided. Commitment: Daytime- opportunities available everyday Location: Holme Valley Memorial Hospital

Want to pop in to see us? We are open @ Volunteering Kirklees Mon – Thurs (10am – 3pm) or Thursdays @ Dewsbury Library (10am-1pm) Prince’s Trust Org Details: Around one in five young people in the UK are not in work, education or training. The Prince’s Trust gives practical and financial support to the young people who need it most. Featured Role:Business Mentors /Programme Volunteers – To provide advice and support to young people. DBS check required Support: Training and some expenses provided Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Development Assessors Prostate Cancer UK Org Details: Supports men living with prostate cancer / disease and the effects of treatment. Provides specialist information and support services and run a variety of fundraising activities throughout the year. Featured Role:Awareness Speaker – volunteer who delivers presentations about the cause. Venues will include community centres, work places and health centres. Support: Travel and meals expenses Commitment: Flexible, Part Time. Training available Location: Kirklees Remploy Org Details:

Remploy's mission is to transform the lives of disabled people and those experiencing complex barriers to work by providing sustainable employment opportunities Featured Role:Advice and Guidance Volunteer – support people with their job search: completing application forms, offering general advice and guidance as well as suggesting other agencies or organisations that can help. Support: Travel and meals expenses Commitment: Weekdays, flexible, part time. Informal training available Location: Based in Huddersfield town centre

Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) Kirklees Org Details: RVS believe in making Britain a great place to grow old. They provide personal and practical support so that older people can stay independent at home and active in their local community. Featured Role:Telephone Befriender – make a regular (eg weekly/fortnightly) telephone call to an older person for a chat. Support: Ongoing support & training available. Travel expenses paid. Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Driver, Activity / Social Session Helper, Fundraiser, Home from Hospital, Marketing, Befriender,

RSPCA (Halifax, Huddersfield & District Branch) Org Details: National charity that cares for unwanted animals and campaigns to improve the treatment of all animals. Featured Role:Cat and Dog Fosterers – To provide safe homes for cats or dogs currently in the RSCPA’s care. Support: Training and expenses provided = organisation has the Kirklees Location: Calderdale and Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award Other Roles: Fundraisers, Trustees, General Helper (KVQA) which shows they use

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good practice when involving volunteers.

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Ruddi’s Retreat Org Details: Offers holidays for children who have life shortening illnesses and/or have suffered bereavement. They have two caravans to provide these holidays and are fundraising to keep these going. Featured Role:Mascot – Volunteers are needed to dress up in character costumes at fundraising events – kids love to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse, George and Peppa Pig. Need to be happy lots of attention when in costume. Support: Travel expenses. Induction training given Commitment: Flexible,min amount of time per session – two hours Location: Across Kirklees Other Roles: Bag Packer, Event Assistant, Leaflet Distributor Samaritans Org Details:

A national charity offering support to people who are suicidal or despairing, Samaritans are on hand 24 hours a day, every day of the year via telephone, email, text or face to face visits. Featured Role:Shop Coordinator – Do you have retail experience? This role is to run and improve the Huddersfield based charity shop to raise vital funds. Duties include day to day running, organising volunteer staff and stock, keeping premises clean and tidy. Support: Travel expenses, full training and on-going support provided. Commitment: Part time, weekdays Location: Marsh, Huddersfield. School Governors’ One Stop Shop Org Details: A unique charity that recruits governor volunteers for schools across England, working with local authorities and schools to help volunteers find mutually beneficial placements. Featured Role:School Governor – Governor’s play a vital role in the education system: planning a school’s long-term future, appointing staff, as well as budgetary allocation and control. Management skills desirable. DBS check required. Support: Depends on policy of placement school Commitment: Weekday evenings, part time Location: Across Kirklees Scouts Org Details:

The UK's biggest mixed youth organisation, offering 6- to 25-year-olds fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventure and the chance to help others to make a positive impact in communities. Featured Roles: Leaders and Assistant Leaders work with groups of boys and girls (in five age sets 6-8, 8-10.5, 10.5-14, 14-18 and 18-25) to plan and enjoy a range of fun activities, in a safe, relaxed and friendly environment. Informal and nationally recognised training provided, ongoing support given. DBS check required. Opportunities: Heavy Wollen District Scouts (Batley, Birstall, Dewsbury, Heckmondwike, Mirfield and Roberttown)  6th Holme Valley Scouts – for work with 14 to 18 year olds.

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 Clayton West Scouts - (Upper Dearne Valley) Support: Some travel expenses Commitment: Weekday evenings/ weekend mornings/daytime Shopmobility (Kirklees Council Gateway to Care Services) Org Details: Shopmobility helps disabled people to get around the town centre by providing scooters and manual wheelchairs so they can shop and socialise without having to rely on other people.

Featured Role:Shopmobility Volunteer – help take and record bookings, get scooters out for users and keep premises tidy and clean. Commitment: Saturday daytime Support: Training given. Travel and meal expenses (if 4+ hours) Location: Huddersfield town centre

Slaithwaite Community Association (runs the Community Centre) Org Details: Volunteers who ‘caretake’ the centre and deal with its day-to-day running, The Community Association provides great local facilities for groups, clubs and societies to use and promotes the social welfare of local people. Featured Role:Committee Members – To bring fresh ideas, valuable experience and expertise to help the organisation achieve its goals. Support: Training provided. Travels expenses paid. Location: Slaithwaite, Huddersfield Other: Individuals with business / project management experience would be ideal.

Society For The Blind (of Dewsbury, Batley and District) Org Details: Local charity that works to improve the quality of life of people in the North Kirklees area who are living with sight loss of any kind. Featured Role:Computer Volunteer – Every Monday and Wednesday (10:30am12:30pm) the charity runs a computer group. A volunteer is needed to provide help and assistance to people with sight loss using computers. Support: Travel expenses and subsidised meals Commitment: Wednesday mornings Location: Batley Other Roles: Social Centre Volunteer, Lunch Assistant

Specialist Autism Services Org Details: Providing support to individuals with autism and Asperger’s syndrome. Featured Role:Volunteer Support – offer support and encouragement to enable individuals to take part in the group’s structured workshops, interact with participants and staff to improve social and communication skills. Volunteers should be good at ‘reading’ people and their moods. Support: Travel and meal expenses, Induction and informal training provided, with potential to complete formal training relevant to role Commitment: Tuesday and Thursday daytime, part time Location: Huddersfield

Stanley’s Training Project Org Details: Working to increase inclusion, employment and opportunities for people with disabilities (aged 14+). Featured Role:Learning Support Volunteer – Sharing your knowledge, skills and experiences, supporting tutors with reports on learners, being involved in the co-ordination of travel arrangements and accompanying small groups of learners on short local excursions. DBS check required Support: Travel expenses & induction training provided, as well as Safeguarding, Food Hygiene & First Aid Location: Batley and Cleckheaton Stirley Community Farm Org Details: A 250-acre upland farm (south of Castle Hill, Huddersfield) which promotes nature conservation and local food.

Featured Role:Gardeners – tend to the fruit and veg planted by groups. Duties include seed sowing, weeding, mulching and harvesting. Support: Training provided. No expenses, but do offer refreshments and wet weather clothing. Location: Huddersfield Other Roles: Grass Cutter Stroke Association Org Details: Providing the services, education and research that helps to prevent strokes, as well as reducing the damage they cause when they do occur. Featured Role: Box Collector – Placing / collecting charity boxes at appropriate locations, counting donations and reporting to Fundraising Manager. Commitment: Flexible, weekdays or weekends Location: Throughout Kirklees Other roles: Communication Support Volunteer (must be caring and patient). Sue Ryder Org Details: National charity - passionate about giving people the care they want. Featured Role:Shop Volunteers - Help needed in Dewsbury and Mirfield shops. Duties include sorting clothes, serving customers, pricing goods and working on the tills. Also opportunities to help with creating window displays. Support: Travel expenses can be provided. Induction training, Health & Safety and may be able to access NVQ training Location: Dewsbury and Mirfield Trans Pennine Trail (Penistone – Dunford Bridge) Org Details: Set up to maintain and promote the use of this popular walking trail, the group rely on volunteers to keep the trail in good condition. Featured Role:Biodiversity Officer – An exciting opportunity to investigate the wildlife on the trail – which originates as an old railway route, now covered in flora and fauna. The volunteer will work to make sure conservation practices enhance the biodiversity of the trail, as well as liasing with organisations such as Barnsley Biological Research Centre and the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to create a record for the area. Experience in a similar role is essential. Support: Some limited expenses provided. Basic induction training available Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Conservation Volunteers

Uniform Exchange Org Details: Supplying free, recycled school uniforms – making a difference to the lives of local families. Featured Role:Sorting Volunteer – many items are generously donated to Uniform Exchange, they need help with sorting as well as picking and packing, ready to be sent out. Support: Travel and expenses if volunteering more than five hours. Induction training provided. Commitment: Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Location: Huddersfield

Want to pop in to see us? We are open @ Volunteering Kirklees Mon – Thurs (10am – 3pm) or Thursdays @ Dewsbury Library (10am-1pm) United Churches Healing Ministry Org Details: A Huddersfield-based Christian charity that provides services including counselling, training, sports activities and room hire. Featured role:Evening Receptionist – to help staff reception on weekday evenings (Mon, Weds and Thurs). Role includes providing visitors with drinks and answering the phone. Support: Induction training and ongoing support. Travel expenses paid. Location: Milnsbridge, Huddersfield Other roles: Shop Volunteer, Fundraising Coordinator The Welcome Centre, food bank and more… Org Details: A charity that provides practical support to vulnerable local people in crisis, provides food packs, household items, clothes, toiletries and bedding. Featured Role: Volunteers have the chance to work in reception; welcoming visitors and giving out food packs, in the store; making up food packs and sorting donations or in customer service; answering telephone calls, inputting data and helping with general admin. Option to work across all three areas if desired. Support: Full induction training provided Commitment: Flexible (eg five hours per month) Location: Huddersfield Town Centre Other Roles: Committee Member

West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy Project (WYCCP) Org Details: The aim of the project is to help offenders resettle into the community, reducing re-offending (open to all faiths and no faith). Featured Role:Link Workers – Supporting ex-offenders, helping them with housing, employment, training, drug and alcohol issues. DBS check required Support: Must attend a three-day training course. Location: Throughout Kirklees

West Yorkshire Dog Rescue Org Details: Takes in and cares for unwanted dogs, finding them suitable homes. Featured Role:Foster Care Volunteer – provide temporary care for rescue dogs, includes taking dogs to the vets (if required) talking to potential owners and offering viewings. Support: Induction & ongoing support. Full out of pocket expenses Commitment: Ranging from two weeks – two months Location: Kirklees Other roles: Chairperson

Call us, email us, or drop in for a chat to find out more: 01484 519053, vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk, Volunteering Kirklees, 8 Upperhead Row. Huddersfield, HD1 2JN West Yorkshire Police Org Details: Serves approximately 2.2 million people living in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield. The area is policed by around 5,000 police officers and 3,600 support staff. Featured Role:Crime Call Backs and Satisfaction Survey – Helping to improve the service offered by West Yorkshire Police. Duties include making calls to victims of crime to increase their confidence and satisfaction in the service they receive, as well as helping to identify weaknesses and repeat issues. Support: Travel and meal expenses (if volunteering more than four hours) Commitment: Weekdays, part time Location: Huddersfield

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Yorkshire Children’s Centre Org Details: a local charity which supports children, families, young and older people who are in need Featured Role:Pass it On Charity Shops need: shopworkers, IT/ebay support, Drivers Mate. Roles in Huddersfield, Heckmondwike and Batley. Support: Lunch and travel expenses, induction training provided Location: Kirklees Other Roles: Learning Assistants (for young people 14-19yrs), Support Workers for Child Contact Centre, Befrienders and also Travel Companions (local travel) for older people

Need help to get going? We can support you to take those sometimes tricky first steps to volunteering…we can: help you decide what’s right for you. make appointments for you help you complete any forms give tips and practise for interviews

Drop in or call 01484 519053 to find out more about Volunteering Kirklees Mentors. You can email us on vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk or find us on Facebook.

Under 18s As well as being rewarding, youth volunteering also looks great on CVs and application forms. At Volunteering Kirklees we mainly have opportunities for volunteers over the age of 18, but we have created a list of local organisations that offer volunteering to people under 18. Get in touch or go to our website to see it. The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme is a well-established way for young people to give back to their local community and engage in social activity. For more information, visit their website: www.dofe.org.

Volunteering from Home It’s possible to stay at home and still make a difference. Opportunities include completing online surveys and proof-reading book pages, becoming an ementor, or even helping to classify galaxies, there are also more hands-on tasks such as knitting. For more details get in touch with Volunteering Kirklees on 01484 519053 or social media.

Overseas Volunteering There are around 100 agencies in Britain that place volunteers abroad on work placements. To find out more, check out the following websites: www.vso.org.uk www.voluntaryworker.co.uk www.globalxperience.com www.volunteering.org.uk The Lonely Planet have also produced an excellent guide to overseas volunteering which can be found at: http://media.lonelyplanet.com/pdfs/volunteer-book.pdf

Supported Volunteering The council’s Gateway Volunteering Service offers extra support to people who want to volunteer who have physical or learning disabilities, mental health needs, caring responsibilities or low levels of confidence. For more information call 01484 414774, or email gatewayvolunteers@kirklees.gov.uk

One-off / local community opportunities

There are many one-off opportunities where you can volunteer on an occasional basis. Helping out on a litter pick, stewarding at a carnival or cooking a Christmas dinner for homeless people. These latest one-off or less formal opportunities are advertised by the organisations themselves on the Volunteering Kirklees website in our ‘More Opportunities’ section.

Free text alerts Sign up and we’ll ping the latest opportunities straight to your phone Tell us what sort of volunteering you’re interested in and we can let you know about the latest opportunities as soon as they’re available! For more information or to sign up email: sharron.wilkinson@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk

We want Kirklees to have a thriving community of volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations. We’re here to: Let people know about opportunities to volunteer Help organisations to develop their volunteering opportunities Promote Timebanking, a great tool to get things done Help community groups to develop ideas and take action. We have been accredited by Volunteering England. This means that we work to a high standard and also that we can put local volunteering opportunities on the national www.do-it.org.uk database. Please get in touch if you have opportunities to publicise. You might also like to know about our Volunteer Supervisor’s working with and managing volunteers.

The Volunteer Centre, 8 Upperhead Row, Huddersfield HD1 2JN (by the bus station) 01484 519053 vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.org Twitter: @vckirklees Facebook: www.facebook.com/volcentrekirklees Charity Reg No 1086930

“Even though I’m fairly new to the role I’ve already developed new skills. Above all though, I feel a lot more confident.” Natasha, Carers Count

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