New Volunteering Opportunities for January 2024
Puppy Parent Volunteer
A national assistance dog charity is searching for amazing volunteers locally to help care for their puppies in training who will grow up to change the life of a disabled person. Puppy Parent Volunteers provide caring homes and help raise, socialise and train puppies and young dogs with support from the charity’s expert trainers.
This a long-term volunteer role as the puppy/dog will live with you from 8 weeks old until it is ready to progress into advanced training (14-18 months old). Volunteers will need to be at home for most of the day and have access to a car. Full training and ongoing guidance will be provided.
Ref NY2392
Vegan Community Organiser
Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering locally? A national organisation that aims to make veganism mainstream has an ever-growing community network of vegans, who volunteer to promote veganism. Each month, you will be sent a collection of tasks to choose from; these could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You would be the point of contact for advocates in your area, sharing these tasks and coordinating activities.
You should be able to commit around two days a month to carry out actions, and this is usually spread out across the month. The role would suit a volunteer with great organisational skills and experience of coordinating people.
Ref NY2644
Activity Group Leaders
A Newbury charity provides social and learning opportunities for those who have retired or are contemplating retirement.
They are looking for Group Leaders, ideally retired or part retired. Group Leaders join as members and then volunteer their time to organise their group/s. They are currently looking for volunteers to lead the following proposed groups: singing, wine tasting, technology for older people, walking with pet dogs welcome, chair yoga/seated exercise, acrylic painting, needlework, more sports groups and beginners German. The most important skill is being able to organise a group and encourage active participation. Enthusiasm and the ability to listen and be sociable are key attributes.
Ref NY2621
Listening Volunteers
A listening service based in Newbury provides confidential emotional support to individuals experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those that may lead to suicide. The service is looking for Listening Volunteers who can offer a safe space for people to share their feelings without fear of judgement. Listening Volunteers provide empathetic support that can help someone in their darkest moments. You will respond to people through calls, e-mails, online or face-to-face.
Volunteers commit to at least one 3-4 hour shift a week, including a night shift every five weeks. The role would suit reliable and empathetic volunteers with good listening skills. Comprehensive training and support is provided.
Ref NY2637
Governors
A Thatcham primary school and nursery is looking for new governors to join its committed and experienced board. Governors work closely with the headteacher and other staff to set the strategic direction of the school, and monitor the educational and financial performance.
This is a chance to grow both personally and professionally, and make a real impact. Time commitment is a few hours a month for meetings and conversations with staff. They are ideally looking for people with ICT, finance or HR backgrounds but an interest in education and leadership are more important than specific experience.
Ref NY2624
Climate and Nature Supporter
A West Berkshire organisation helps local eco groups share knowledge, ideas and best practice. They have recently developed a Climate and Nature stall, to signpost people to information about low impact, affordable and healthy food, travel, home energy and more. If this is something you have any interest or experience in, they would love to hear from you. The organisation also continues to develop ways to share information about climate- and nature-friendly choices – is this something you could help with?
Time commitment is very flexible. The role would suit those with an interest in the environment, and confidence in talking to people at events.
Ref NY2632
For information about these and more than 350 other volunteering opportunities please contact Volunteer Centre West Berkshire via vbase@vcwb.org.uk or call 01635 49004