Careers at Big Life

Drop-in Group Volunteer (No.93, Harpurhey)

Purpose

To welcome new members of to the peer support Drop in Group and explain the group framework to them. To briefly oversee the group for the Facilitator and support in collection of data and feedback. To provide assistance in the preparation of refreshments as well as prepping and tidying of the group room.

This is also an opportunity for group members to make the first steps towards volunteering; to share their experience with peers and develop their own skills and awareness of mental health services.

Overview

As part of our community services department you will join a team of people who have lived experience of both mental distress and recovery and are helping others to make that journey towards wellness.

Drop in Groups provide people who are experiencing problems with anxiety and/or depression with the opportunity to meet and talk in a mutually supportive atmosphere. The group runs on a drop-in basis, providing a non- judgmental environment where group members can talk about their experiences, share advice, coping strategies and socialise.  In order for the groups to remain safe each member agrees to a set of guidelines called a group framework or agreement.

As a drop-in group volunteer you will be responsible for meeting and greeting members as they arrive. You will also help to put new members at ease by welcoming them and explaining the group framework to them and perhaps offering a ‘familiar face’ until they feel more comfortable.  You will also assist the facilitators in preparing/tidying the group room, ensuring that hot drinks are provided and cleared away as well as with the collection of demographic data and feedback.

Responsibilities

• Support group Facilitators to create a safe and welcoming environment.
• Prepare/assist with refreshments for group members.
• Welcome new group members and explain the group framework to them.
• Assist group members to complete monitoring and evaluation forms.
• Assist in the preparation of case studies.
• From time to time you may wish to use your personal experience to assist group members with any difficulties they might encounter whilst accessing the group. This could be done through the use of emotional support and problem-solving techniques where appropriate.
• Briefly oversee the group should the Facilitator need to speak privately to a group member.
• Remain attentive and observant to support risk and safeguarding processes and reporting

Skills and Experience

• Personal, first-hand, “lived experience” of mental health problems and some experience of recovery from these difficulties
• A willingness and genuine interest in helping others who are struggling with difficulties
• Active listening / communication skills
• Respect for all
• Reliability and commitment
• Basic understanding of a range of mental health problems
• A knowledge of the services offered by Big Life Centres and other mental health and social care services in the wider community.

Times and Commitment

Ideally you will be able to offer a regular commitment for the Harpurhey Anxiety & Depression Group each Thursday from 1-3pm at No.93 Healthy Living Centre.

As this is an opportunity for personal development you will be encouraged to partake in training offered by the Big Life Group.

Contact:       george.barrow@thebiglifegroup.com or adgroups@thebiglifegroup.com