Give a little of your time and help children to live safer, happier and more independent lives.
What Volunteers Do
Volunteers take small groups of children around different scenarios in the Centre to work through various safety-related activities. You will introduce them to numerous difficult or dangerous situations and encourage them to work together to discuss (and potentially carry out) possible solutions.
How Much Time You Will Need to Give
School sessions run from 9:45am-12pm and 12:45pm-3pm. Volunteers need to arrive around 1/4 hour before the session starts. You can choose to volunteer for either a half or a whole day and you decide which dates are most convenient for you. The minimum commitment we ask for is 2 sessions a month.
Training
Training is taken totally at your own pace. Your first few sessions at Lifeskills will involve you “shadowing” one of our Trainer Guides as they take groups around the Centre. As you become more confident you can begin to lead parts of the session yourself until you feel comfortable enough to take a group on your own. You will also receive written tour notes to help you as you train.
Expenses
You can claim expenses to cover your travel costs and, if you choose to volunteer for the whole day, we will also cover the cost of your lunch.
How to Apply
Volunteers will be required to successfully undergo an enhanced DBS and Barred List check before completing their training.
Volunteers will be required to complete an online safeguarding course as part of their training, prior to qualification.
As part of the volunteer induction recruits will receive training on the centre’s child protection, health and safety and data protection policies.
All prospective volunteers are required to complete an application form including the contact details for two referees.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It...
“I love volunteering at Lifeskills because it’s extremely rewarding helping children stay safe. The volunteers are all lovely, it’s like a family, and it’s changed my life since starting” – Jo, Volunteer Trainer Guide
“Volunteering at Lifeskills enables me to meet and work alongside some great people; teaching children, improving their knowledge and raising their awareness of how to stay safe and healthy” – Andy, Volunteer Guide
“I love volunteering at Lifeskills because it gives children the opportunity to have fun whilst learning vital skills. Not only do the kids benefit, but I do too. I've learned how to be a leader, engage learners and work with individuals with different needs; all of this looks great on my CV!” – Ella, Volunteer Guide
If you think you would enjoy being a Volunteer Guide for Lifeskills, please contact us to arrange a visit.