Volunteer Role: Assistive Devices Volunteer

Volunteer with Signal

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and walks of life to our Shrewsbury-based Hub dedicated to hearing loss. We particularly welcome volunteers who themselves have a hearing loss or have knowledge of British Sign Language (BSL).

Volunteer Role: Assistive Devices Volunteer

Arrangements

Hours: The Hub is open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Shifts: morning shifts are from 10am to 1pm; afternoon shifts from 1pm to 4pm.

Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one shift per week, although, there issome flexibility. Volunteers are based at:

Signal: The Hub, Unit 20-22, Riverside Mall, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 1PJ.

Volunteering tasks

You will probably be a little technically minded for this role and have an interest in gadgets and also like explaining to peoplehow things work. You will help visitors to The Hub by showing them assistive devices that may help them with their hearing loss. You will watch over them as they try out the devices. See the smile on people’s faces as they hear something more clearly than before! You will receive full training too. If you are not able to helpinitially, then you will be able torefer people on to the relevant experts.

Training

Volunteers receive an induction, including health and safety and basic computer training. You will also receive deaf awareness and dementia awareness training. Other training will be available, depending on the specific tasks to be undertaken.

What we offer

Opportunity to make a real difference in the community and to people’s lives.
Opportunity to develop skills and knowledge of working in the voluntary sector.
Opportunity to build experience for a CV – we provide references for committed volunteers.
Opportunity to make a vital contribution to an organisation that is passionate about what it does.
Reasonable travel expenses (by agreement).

What we ask from you

No experience is needed and full training is given.

Essential:

Aged 18 or above.
Able to adopt a courteous, friendly and professional manner at all times.
To be aware of confidentiality at all times.
Able to commit to half a day’s volunteering per week for at least three months.
An interest in technology.

Desirable:

Some knowledge of basic computer skills, data entry and internet searching.
Experience of hearing loss, either personally or professionally, or good BSL skills.
Experience dealing with the public.

Frequently asked questions

Will volunteering affect my benefits?

No – because we do not pay you for your volunteering but only reimburse expenses. If you have any concerns, then you should contact your Jobcentre Plus.

Will you do a criminal records check?

Yes – because you may be working directly with vulnerable adults.

Is The Hub accessible?

The Hub is based in the Riverside shopping centre which is accessible to wheelchair users. The Hub services are based on the ground floor and this is where the volunteers are based. There is a room upstairs accessible by stairs onlywhich may be used by staff members and volunteers at break times. People with mobility issues will be able to take breaks in the café on the ground floor. Unfortunately, there are no lift facilities to the first floor.

For more information, contact:

Paul Coope, TheHub Manager, Signal

Telephone 01743 360 478