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Volunteer Role: HAVEN Project Assistant

Volunteer Role: HAVEN Project Assistant

Portsmouth City of Sanctuary (PCoS) is a non-political humanitarian organisation helping asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants in the Portsmouth postcode. We are proud to be supported by a number of local organisations, projects and services. With values of compassion, community and choice we are committed to welcoming, signposting andadvocating for clients. Our dedicated team makes this happen.

What you will be doing:

HAVEN is a female and referral-only drop-in service for migrant women living in the Portsmouth area who have experienced gender-based violence (this could include domestic violence, forced marriage, FGM, trafficking and sexual exploitation). HAVEN is a safe and welcoming space providing face-to-face and group support through the provision of activities that promote independence, increase confidence and empower.

HAVEN Project Assistants will assist the Coordinator to deliver HAVEN sessions by setting up and preparing the venue, welcoming and engaging with attendees, assisting with provision of food and refreshments, being a listening ear as well as encouraging attendees to take part in activities.

As a HAVEN Project Assistant you will:

  • Assist in setting up and clearing up of HAVEN drop-in.
  • Assist in preparing activities.
  • Prepare basic refreshments for the group.
  • Welcome and register attendees.
  • Participate and encourage engagement in activities.
  • Talk and be a listening ear to HAVEN attendees.
  • Help other volunteers and partner agencies provide a safe and welcoming space.
  • Be alert to any potential safeguarding issues and raise them with the PCoS Safeguarding Leads (basic safeguarding training is provided to volunteers).

Skills/qualities you will need for this role:

  • Caring and supportive.
  • A good listener.
  • Friendly and encouraging.
  • A patient and calm approach.
  • Good communicator.
  • Attention to detail.
  • General knowledge of IT.
  • Ability to prioritise.
  • Enjoy being part of a team.
  • Reliability and good time management.
  • Willingness to learn (training will be provided for new volunteers).
  • Enthusiasm and support for PCoS and its projects.
  • This role may suit someone with knowledge of UK migration but is not essential as trainingwill be provided.

When will you be volunteering:

  • Each session is 4 hours, weekly (term time only) – further details available upon enquiry.
  • A minimum time commitment of 6 months is desirable for this volunteer role.

References:

Yes.

DBS:

Yes (carried out by PCoS).

Age:

18 years minimum.

Portsmouth City of Sanctuary volunteers are offered:

  • Full induction.
  • Training for new volunteers.
  • Regular support – and to be part of a dedicated and supportive team.
  • Opportunity to join team social events.

Interested?

Please send your expression of interest to volunteermanager@portsmouth.cityofsanctuary.org.