http://www.volunteeringkirklees.org.uk/

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Volunteering Kirklees 01484 518457

What are you doing

today? Are you looking for something to do with your spare time? Are you interested in doing

something positive for yourself and the community and being able to have fun and enjoy yourself at the same time?

Volunteering has got lots to offer …

Build your self-confidence

Gain some real skills and experience

Improve your career prospects

Update your references

Get involved in a cause or issue that concerns yo

Share your interests and hobbies with other people

Meet new people and have some fun

Gain a sense of satisfaction

Become a part of something that really makes a difference

What could you be doing today …? Voluntary work is extremely varied and flexible; there is usually something to suit everyone’s interests. In Kirklees there is a wide variety of voluntary work available, with small community groups, local and national charities, social services and education.

Some of the things you could try include:

Conservation projects

Befriending schemes

Driving

Health projects

Fundraising

Women’s issues

Charity shops

Working with children

Office / administration work

Sports, arts and media projects

Management committee work

Giving advice and information

Working with the elderly

Youth work

Some questions you may be asking yourself:

What’s in it for me? Volunteering is a two-way thing - you give some of your time and energy and in

return you should be getting something out of it. Whatever your reasons for volunteering, you are more likely to enjoy yourself if you know what you want to achieve.

What have I got to offer? Everyone has got skills to offer even though you may not realise it. As a new volunteer some of the

important things you can offer are your enthusiasm, a regular commitment of your time and energy and your desire to get involved and make a difference. It is also useful to think about what new skills you might want to learn.

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How much time can I give? It’s entirely up to you - whatever fits in your lifestyle. It may be just a few hours once a month or more regularly a few times a week. Voluntary work opportunities are available in the day, during the evenings or at weekends. You could give a regular commitment of your time or get involved in one off events and activities that happen just once a year.

Will it cost me anything to volunteer?

Nobody should be out of pocket as a result of volunteering. Many organisations will refund your out of pocket

expenses including travel to and from the place of voluntary work. Remember to ask the organisation about this.

What about my benefits? Individuals claiming all types of benefits should be able to volunteer without it affecting their claim. You will need to let the Job Centre Plus know that you are volunteering. If you have any questions or concerns about this then please contact Volunteering Kirklees for an information leaflet.

Would I get any training as a volunteer? Most organisations do provide some sort of training or preparation to take sure that you are able to do the tasks involved. They should

also offer you ongoing support to help you carry on volunteering. Some organisations also offer accredited training for volunteers in specific areas of activity.

How old do I have to be?

Most volunteering opportunities are open to anyone over 18. For Under 18’s volunteering, see the Duke Of Edinburgh scheme at the back of this booklet. How can Volunteering Kirklees help you to get started? We can …

Give you information on the wide variety of voluntary work available Give you details (names, addresses, phone numbers) of organisations looking for volunteers and explain more about their work Help you decide on the kind of voluntary work you may want to try Outline what you should expect as a volunteer / what is expected of you

What do I do now? If you would like more details or have any questions about volunteering you can: - Visit www.do-it.org.uk where you can search all our local volunteering opportunities - Drop into the Volunteer Centre in Huddersfield, Tues-Weds, 10am - 3pm Or Dewsbury Library on Thursdays from 10am -1pm - Give us a call at the Volunteer Centre on 01484 518457 - Visit our website: www.volunteeringkirklees.org.uk/ - Find us on Facebook and twitter - or email us on vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk

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Accounts / Finance

Castle & Minister Credit Union

Pennine Domestic Violence Group

Administration / IT

Better Future For The Blind

Castle & Minister Credit Union

Citizens Online

Communities United Project

Denby Dale Centre

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice

Lifeline

Lorna Young Foundation

Marie-Curie Cancer Care

Paddock Community Trust

Refugee Council

RSPB

RSPCA

Thornhill Lees Community Centre

WRVS Kirklees

Advice & Support

Auntie Pam’s

Cafe 100

Fusion Housing

Groundwork Trust

Lifeline

Missing People

Motor Neurone Disease Association

National Childbirth Trust

Northorpe Hall Trust

Refugee Council

WomenCentre Calderdale & Kirklees

Animals & Wildlife

Dial Wood Carriage Driving For The Disabled

RSPCA

West Yorkshire Dog Rescue

Arts & Culture

Jubilee Melody Makers

Matrix

Society For The Blind

Befriending & Mentoring

Anchor

Batley Resource Centre

Better Future For The Blind

Denby Dale Centre

Leeds Housing Concern

Matrix

Mencap In Kirklees

Northorpe Hall Trust

Prince’s Trust

St Anne’s Befriending and Community

Services

WomenCentre Calderdale & Kirklees

WRVS Kirklees

Caring & Elderly

Anchor

Avalon Freedom

Batley Resource Centre

Better Future For The Blind

Society For The Blind

WRVS Kirklees

Catering

Leeds Housing Concern

Jubilee Melody Makers

Longwood Village Group

Paddock Community Trust

RSPCA

Charity Shops

Cancer Research UK

DEBRA

Forget Me Not Trust

Kirkwood Hospice

National Children’s Centre

OXFAM

Scope

Children & Youth

Army Cadet Force

Cafe 100

Communities United Project

Duke Of Edinburgh Award

19th Huddersfield Golcar Guides

Huddersfield Ramsden Division Guides

Kirklees Learning Service

Matrix

National Children’s Centre

Northorpe Hall Trust

Conservation, DIY, Gardening &

Environment

Holme Valley Gardening Network

Huddersfield Canal Society

Kirklees Council

Making Space

Mencap In Kirklees

Oakwell Hall Country Park

Paddock Community Trust

Stirley Community Farm

OPPORTUNITIES BY AREA OF INTEREST

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Disability

Avalon Freedom

Better Future For The Blind

Hollybank Trust

Driving

Denby Dale Centre

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice

Friend To Friend

Kirkwood Hospice

National Children’s Centre

The Thursday Club

Education & Literacy

British Waterways

Fusion Housing

Events & Activities

British Waterways

Cancer Research

DEBRA

Friend To Friend

Jubilee Melody Makers

Kirkwood Hospice

Mencap In Kirklees

SNAP Club

WRVS Kirklees

Yorkshire Air Ambulance

Families

Home Start Kirklees

First Aid

Army Cadet Force

Heartstart Dewsbury

St John’s Ambulance

Fundraising

Cancer Research UK

DEBRA

Denby Dale Centre

Dial Wood Carriage Driving For The Disabled

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice

Friend To Friend

Hollybank Trust

Home Start Kirklees

Huddersfield Canal Society

Kidney Research UK

Leonard Cheshire Disability

Lorna Young Foundation

Macmillan Cancer Support

Marie-Curie Cancer Care

Missing People

RSPCA

The Welcome Centre

Health, Hospitals & Hospice

Auntie Pam’s

Heartstart Dewsbury

Kirkwood Hospice

Locala

National Childbirth Trust

St John’s Ambulance

WRVS Kirklees

Media / PR / Marketing

Communities United Project

Denby Dale Centre

Huddersfield African Caribbean Cultural Trust

(HACCT)

Help From Home

The Welcome Centre

Prisoners & Ex Offenders

West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy Project

(WYCCP)

Sport & Development

Communities United Project

Kirklees Council

Matrix

Trustee

Castle & Minster Credit Union

Communities United Project

Denby Dale Centre

Friend To Friend

Home Start Kirklees

Northorpe Hall Trust

Pennine Domestic Violence Group

Slaithwaite Community Association

The Welcome Centre

West Yorkshire Dog Rescue

Please note, this is just a sample of the many opportunities available. For full, updated

listings visit www.do-it.org,uk or come to see us at the Volunteer Centre

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VOLUNTEER

OPPORTUNITIES Autumn - Winter 2012

Outlined below are some of the many opportunities available. Please contact Volunteering Kirklees for details about these and many more.

Confidential appointments are always available.

Anchor Helping older people get the best out of life, Anchor are looking for Volunteer Befrienders. The role involves participating in activities with older people; from reading a newspaper, to accompanying on shopping trips and / or sharing hobbies, as well as providing general friendship & support. Location: Dalton, Huddersfield

New Opportunity! Army Cadet Force The Army Cadet Force provide opportunities for young people aged 13-18 years to achieve and gain life experience in the form of Military training, Duke of Edinburgh Award and BTEC qualifications. Volunteers are needed to help in the teaching of skills like navigation, first aid and rock climbing to children. Volunteers will gain an array of experience and qualifications in areas such as instructing candidates, adventure training and shooting, as well as qualifications in City & Guilds, and the Institute of Leadership. Location: Huddersfield, Liversedge, Mirfield and Thongsbridge

Auntie Pam’s Based in Dewsbury, Auntie Pam’s work to help support and assist pregnant women in making positive lifestyle changes. They are looking to recruit a Pregnancy Peer Support Volunteer, whose duties will include providing information, support & encouragement to clients, helping to maintain client records and helping to provide outreach services in the Dewsbury area. Essential that volunteers must have experienced pregnancy themselves and understand the importance of confidentially. Travel expenses are available and full training is provided. Location: Dewsbury area

Avalon Freedom Everyone needs a holiday but not everyone gets one. Avalon Freedom help those who need support on holiday to enjoy what most people take for granted. They organise tailor made holidays at affordable prices for older people, people with disabilities, and people with mental health problems. They require Volunteer Holiday Supporters to join their team and learn how to provide companionship, support and oversight to clients. Full training will be provided. Location: Holidays take place in the UK and abroad

New Opportunity! Batley Resource Centre Batley Resource Centre provides community services and centre based activities that truly enhance the quality of life of their local community. A range of different Volunteer positions are open. A ‘Let’s Move’ Volunteer is required to act as a companion to an

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older person considering or actually moving home – supporting them through the associated decluttering, downsizing and stresses. A helper for their ‘On The Doorstep’ project is needed to run active leisure and social clubs by sharing their interests, skills, hobbies and time with older clients. A Befriender is needed to go into older people’s homes and offer a listening ear, companionship, conversation and have a cup of tea with them. Car Companions are also required to offer their time to accompany clients to appointments. Moving and handling training will be needed, as will a CRB check. Location: Batley

Better Future for the Blind Better Future for the Blind is a befriending service for the visually impaired in South Kirklees. The service aims to reduce loneliness and isolation by matching up Volunteer Befrienders and clients. All is needed is a once a week visit to a visually impaired person to provide companionship and friendship. Activity Club Volunteers are also needed; to help accompany members in their local community and at BFFTB group activities, as well as a Committee Secretary to take minutes at meetings and provide general admin support. Location: Huddersfield

British Waterways The Standedge Tunnel & Visitor Centre sits on the banks of the historic Huddersfield Narrow Canal, attracting around 35,000 visitors to the canal and Pennines each year. Volunteers helped restore the canal and now help keep it alive.They are looking for new volunteers to fulfil a variety of roles that include Events Assistants and Events Co-ordinators, Retail and Catering Assistants, Visitor Centre Guides, as well WOW Education volunteers; who visit schools to lead

water safety activities. All the roles are in aid of encouraging people to take an interest in their local waterways through fun activities and will provide plenty of opportunities to meet new people and improve communication skills. Location: Huddersfield

Cancer Research As the world’s largest volunteer supported organisation dedicated to cancer research, it comes as no surprise they constantly require new volunteers to fulfil a variety of roles. They require Breast Cancer Awareness Ambassadors to help distribute information in their local area and contact local business asking for support in their ‘Join The Fight’ campaign. Fundraising Group Leaders and Fundraising Campaign Volunteers are required to help plan, organise and run fundraising activities. For those with less time to volunteer, Kirklees Action Team Members are needed to provide assistance at one off fundraising and raising awareness events, on an occasional basis. Volunteers Speakers and Community Representatives are also needed to help represent Cancer Research in your local community. In addition, Shop Workers are required to help staff the charity’s fundraising shops, as well as Relay For Life Committee Chair Volunteers – to co-ordinate Relay For Life – an overnight community led non athletic event in which teams raise money by competing in a relay race for up to 24 hours. Location: Across Kirklees

New Opportunity! Castle & Minister Credit Union Castle & Minster aims to become the primary source of low cost, high quality and ethical financial services for the

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people of Kirklees. Volunteers are required to help with administration, answering the telephone, dealing with post, filing, photocopying, scanning documents and helping customers. For those with a financial interest, there is cashiering and bookkeeping. A Board Member is needed to participate in the democratic governance of a large and growing social enterprise covering all of Kirklees. Meetings are once a month on Monday afternoons in Huddersfield. A Volunteer Qualified Accountant is required to join the Board of Directors and provide guidance and support on accountancy/finance issues for approximately 2 hours a month. There will be an additional requirement to support the Finance Committee for approximately 2 hours a month. Location: Dewsbury and Huddersfield

New Opportunity! Citizens Online Citizens Online is a national charity that was set up to tackle the issues of digital inclusion, to make sure that the Internet is available to everybody and to help individuals and communities understand the benefits of being online.Digital Assistant Volunteers are required to help out at events and sessions; showing people how to switch on computers and use a mouse, demonstrating basic keyboard functions, helping users access the internet safely, setting up internet based email accounts, offer guidance on key internet sites of interest, saving and printing and generally raising self confidence in using ICT. Location: Kirklees

Communities United Project Working with under resourced communities, helping them to set up & run sports and creative activities for young people, CUP is looking for

volunteers for a variety of different roles including help training staff and volunteers, administration and marketing support, and help running activities. They are also looking for Multisports / Coaching Assistants, Youth Work Assistants, Playscheme Assistants, and Trustees. Location: Throughout Kirklees

DEBRA

DEBRA helps people affected by EB - Epidermolysis Bullosa - a genetic skin disorder where

the skin blisters and does not repair.It aims to promote research into the cause, nature, treatment of EB and to relieve physical and mental illness amongst people suffering from the condition. Volunteers are needed to help at the three charity shops in the Kirklees area. This is an opportunity to gain retail experience and also to help benefit children and adults suffering from EB.They also require Event Specialists and Cash Creators to help with fundraising activities and organising / maintaining a network of collection boxes respectively. Location: Holmfirth, Netherton, Salendine Nook

Denby Dale Centre Working with the Denby Dale and Kirkburton local community, the centre helps to reduce poverty and feelings of isolation to those most vulnerable. Numerous opportunities available, including working as a Receptionist / Cashier at the drop in centre and charity shop. One-to-One Befrienders / Activity Club Support Workers are also required to befriend and engage with members. Friendliness is a must for both opportunities, as well as flexibility. Roles are available on their Fundraising and Promotion / Publicity teams. Volunteer Drivers, IT trainers and Trustees are also required.

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Dial Wood Carriage Driving For the Disabled

Enabling people with disabilities to carriage drive and spend time with ponies, Dial Wood Carriage for the Disabled provides benefits to their clients’ health and wellbeing, as well as helping them to achieve their goals. They have numerous opportunities available including Carriage Driving and Stable Yard Helpers; both ideally suited for anyone who enjoys working with animals, as well as more traditional roles such as Volunteer Co-ordinators and Fundraisers to help with organisation, income and promotion. Location: Flockton

Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice supports life-limited children and young people and their families. The Hospice at Home service provides nursing care, practical help and emotional support to families in their own homes. The new, purpose-built hospice at Brackenhall will give a wide range of care, therapies and play activities for children and young people. Volunteering opportunities include: Retail – to sort donated stock, serve customers and to help to keep the sales area clean and tidy in shops across Kirklees, Event Volunteers – to help at fundraising events throughout the year, and Administration Support –volunteers needed with office and finance skills. Anyone with a particular interest or skill should get in touch to arrange an informal chat about volunteering opportunities. Volunteer Drivers and Coin Collection Tub Distributors are also required. Location: Throughout Kirklees

Friend To Friend A local Charity that offers a range of social activities for older people. Activity Group Leaders and Group

Helpers are needed to help run the charity’s numerous activity sessions; such as crafts, quizzes and guest speakers. A Transport Organiser Volunteer is also required to plan and co-ordinate transport (mini bus & taxis) for the Charity’s members, to and from events. They also are looking for Volunteer Drivers, Helpers, Fundraisers and Trustees. Location: Holmfirth and Netherton

New Opportunity! Fusion Housing Providing a wide range of support about homelessness and housing issues to young people aged 16 - 30. They give specialist housing advice, learning support, and have a recycled furniture scheme, as well as helping young people with legal housing issues, homelessness, housing arrears, disrepair issues, debt advice in possession proceedings and representation in court. Fusion help with budgeting on a low income, setting up a home and understanding tenancy obligations. Through their involvement in learning they provide a range of courses such as: “A place of your own”, cooking, boxercise, Childcare and IT and digital photography, as well as tailored support for literacy, numeracy, mentoring and support to overcome problems. They are looking for volunteers to help with the different aspects of their work, and in particular would welcome volunteers who want to work on their recycling scheme in Mirfield. Location: Kirklees

New Opportunity! Groundwork Trust Helping improve the environment and the lives of those who get involved with the group, Groundwork are looking for a Volunteer Learning Support Assistant. The volunteer will help

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support Climate Change tutors deliver their Skills For Climate Change course which aims to help unemployed adults reduce their fuel bills and live a more low carbon lifestyle. Applicants must be aged 21 or over. They are also looking for Volunteer Youth Mentors to assist their Foundation Learning Tutors in helping prepare and provide advice to young people aged 16 – 19 years looking to access employment, full time education or training in Kirklees. Applicants must be aged 21 or over and require a full CRB check. Location: Across Kirklees

Hollybank Trust Aiming to improve the quality of life, for the life of their members, the Hollybank Trust helps relieve sickness by providing accommodation and care for both children and adults with severe disabilities. They require Volunteer Fundraisers to help in numerous ways, including; event organisation and participation, bucket collections, distribution of promotional content, and recruitment of other volunteers. Location: Kirklees

Holme Valley Gardening Network A community gardening project offering various practical opportunities in learning how to grow food locally, compost home waste and support individuals developing a deeper understanding of nature. Numerous roles available, including; Horticulture Volunteers – to learn basic soil management, propagation, sowing and planting techniques, Gardening Arts & Crafts Volunteers – to run activities such as willow weaving, printing and ceramics, and Gardening / Cooking Volunteers – to help with harvesting and cooking, including planning menus in relation to seasonal cycles. A willingness to work outdoors and to learn is crucial for all roles.

Home-Start Kirklees Home-Start offers support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under the age of 5. They need dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who are preferably parents themselves and know how valuable support can be. All volunteers attend a 6-week preparation course, covering a wide range of topics to help offer good support to families.They are then linked up with a family who they visit every week. Volunteers are also needed to assist with either the “New-2-U” nursery goods recycling project, or for the “Friends of Home-Start” who help raise funds for the charity. Trustees are also needed. Full training is provided. Location: Dalton and across Kirklees

New Opportunity! Huddersfield African Caribbean Cultural Trust The HACCT work to promote and embrace African Caribbean cultural heritage through the visual arts, education & training, and their annual Huddersfield Carnival. They require a volunteer to help with the promotion and marketing of the space available in their centre, as well as assisting with workshops that are run at local schools and community based organisations. Looking for open minded volunteers with good communication skills. Location: Huddersfield

Huddersfield Canal Society

If you like water, you’ll love this. Volunteers have the opportunity to become involved in all aspects of

maintaining the canal system. There are many practical tasks, including crew member, gardening, joinery and carpentry, and construction work.

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New Opportunity! 19th Huddersfield Golcar Guides Golcar Guides is a membership-led organisation and provides a girl-only space for their guides that is free from the pressure of a mixed gender setting. Guide Assistants are wanted to offer help and support on Wednesday nights for an hour and a half. This is a great chance for individuals who have experience in working with young people to play a vital role in the development of the guides’ social, behavioural and creative skils. Location: Golcar

Huddersfield Ramsden Division Guides There are over 700 members of Girl Guiding UK in this area. Volunteer leaders are required to help out at these groups. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone wanting to work within the field of social care, youth work or teaching. Location: Kirklees

Jubilee Melody Makers Helping to strengthen the community by bringing together adults and their pre school children, Jubilee Melody Makers has found much success creating a safe environment for children to play and socially interact with other children via music and movement sessions. Looking for numerous volunteers including: - Organisational Helpers to assist the setting up and packing away of events. - Craft Helpers who are willing to sit alongside parents and children and get involved with the craft activities. - Kitchen Helpers to provide refreshments during the sessions.

- Door Welcomers to meet and great parents, collect money, and ensure that all participants sign in. Location: Paddock, Huddersfield

Kirklees Council Providing a wide variety of opportunities for the people of Kirklees, Kirklees Council require volunteers across the many different services they offer. Their Culture and Leisure Services team require volunteers to help out with their Parkrun and Shall We Dance events, as well as Sports Coach Assistants and Walk Leaders. Library and Information Services need Community Readers to assist with the recording of information for blind and visually impaired people. For those more suited to outdoor opportunities, the Countryside Unit are looking for Conservation Volunteers to help with tasks such as dry stone walling and tree planting, whilst Oakwell Hall Country Park are also looking for volunteers to help with conservation tasks and events. Children and Young People’s services require Independent Visitors and Young People Volunteers to offer friendship and mentoring to young people. Gateway To Care – who help vulnerable people in Kirklees to remain independent, are looking for Volunteer Buddies, Community Health Champions, Information and Advice Assistants, as well as Volunteers for Care and Dementia Care Homes. Location: Across Kirklees

Kirklees Learning Service

Reading Friends are volunteers who have been trained to support children with their reading. The volunteers have training which gives them a

greater understanding of how children

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learn to read and how they can best support them. Each Reading Friend works with 2 children for half an hour a week for 10 weeks. If you love reading, this is an opportunity to share your enthusiasm. Location: Throughout Kirklees

Kirklees Faiths Forum Celebrating the variety and diversity of our local community, the Kirklees Faiths Forum aims to support and raise awareness to faith and interfaith activities across the area. Volunteers are needed to act as Hosts, at either their own, or at any participating, Faith Centre within Kirklees. Hosts will provide visitors with information about their Faith Centre and help them to get involved with the events taking place. Open to all faiths including Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist. Location: Across Kirklees

Kirkwood Hospice Supporting both patients and the families of those suffering life threatening illness, Kirkwood Hospice provide specialist care across Kirklees. They require a number of volunteers to help staff their fundraising shops in Almondbury, Batley, Cleckheaton, Dalton, Denby Dale, Dewsbury, Heckmondwike, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Kirkburton, Lindley, Marsden, Meltham, Milnsbridge, Mirfield and Slaithwaite. Duties are based around customer service. Volunteer Drivers / Mini Bus Drivers are also required to help bring clients to and from the Hospice, and to help distribute goods between the Hospice’s shops. A Summer Events Assistant is needed to help at a number of fundraising activities they have planned, and a Tea Maker / Greeter to provide help on their ward at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, Location: Across Kirklees

New Opportunity! Leeds Housing Concern Leeds Housing Concern provides a place where people with serious memory problems/dementia can come and socialise. A number of dementia cafés have been established throughout Kirklees and dementia café volunteers are now needed. The role of the volunteer is to assist in all aspects of the running of the café, undertaking tasks such as meeting and greeting customers, reception duties, preparation of refreshments and acting as a befriender. Location: Throughout Kirklees

Leonard Cheshire Disability The organisation aims to promote the independence of disabled people and promote their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Volunteers are required for a variety of roles including visiting the home and chatting with the residents, escorting residents on trips and fundraising.

Location: Cleckheaton and

Huddersfield

Lifeline Kirklees Lifeline is a diversionary and reintegration project for people with drug and alcohol related problems. There are various roles that volunteers can become involved in but initially a volunteer will receive a month’s induction to the organisation to the organisation and then Lifeline will look at which area the volunteer is interested in within their Adult Services teams; including admin and counselling. Location: Dewsbury & Huddersfield

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New Opportunity! Locala Locala Community Partnerships provide NHS community services to over 400,000 people in Kirklees and beyond. They require volunteers for a number of projects including health visitors at school / nurseries - starting at -9 months to 19 years, and specialist therapy services - including intermediate care and also within the community care teams as part of the district nursing service. Other opportunities include volunteering at Locala health centres for befriending and signposting support. Location: Kirklees

New Opportunity! Longwood Village Group The Longwood Village Group provides sport and outdoor activities to their local community. To fund this, they require volunteers to help in their community coffee shop. Duties include setting up tables, waiting on customers, taking orders, serving and clearing up. The role is ideal for anyone who enjoys meeting new people and socialising with customers. Health & Safety and Basic Hygiene training is provided, as well as the opportunity to also help out with the group’s table tennis sessions that run on Mondays. Location: Longwood

New Opportunity! Lorna Young Foundation Having recently set up a new ethical fair trade enterprise group for people aged 55+, the Lorna Young Foundation require a Volunteer Project Worker to provide support to the

group. Duties will include co-ordinating group meetings and workshops, as well as networking and attending events. The opportunity presents a great opportunity to gain experience, meet new people, and learn about ethical fair trading. Hours are flexible, with some duties able to be fulfilled from home. They also require a Donations & Fundraising Volunteer to seek sources of funding and make simple funding applications on the group’s behalf, and a Communications, Information & Social Media Volunteer to help promote the group using press releases, newsletters, leaflets and the Internet. Location: Dewsbury

Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people living with cancer. In West

Yorkshire, 27 people will be diagnosed with cancer every day. Macmillan provide practical, medical, emotional and financial support, but they can’t do it without your help. They have volunteer opportunities available for event organisers, public speakers, marshals, researchers, cash collectors and more. Location: West Yorkshire.

Making Space Dedicated to supporting both people with Mental Health problems and the people who care for them, Making Space provides much needed help and relief. Currently looking for volunteers to work as Allotment Assistants, working with carers in groups of 4 or 5 and helping with planting, growing and harvesting the allotment. Great for developing listening and communication skills, and well suited to outdoor types. Location: Marsh, Huddersfield

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Matrix Helping to meet the needs of young people in Mirfield, Matrix are looking for Volunteer Youth Workers are required to support and supervise activities such as arts & crafts (pencil drawing, canvas, graffiti projects), sports, cooking, dancing, walking and fishing. Volunteers must show an enthusiasm for working with young people and a willingness to learn. Ongoing training is provided Location: Mirfield & District

Missing People Each year over 250,000 go missing. Missing People provides a lifeline for those left behind. Offering support and helping them search for their loved ones. They are looking for Fundraising and Awareness Volunteers to help organise and run local events, present to local community groups and schools, and help recruit new volunteers. Previous fundraising experience desirable, strong organisational and communication skills also required. Location: Across Kirklees

Motor Neurone Disease Association The Motor Neurone Disease Association ensures that people with Motor Neurone Disease Association can secure the care and support they need. Volunteers needed to visit people in their own home, signposting people to agencies and providing a listening ear. Full training is provided. Location: Kirklees

New Opportunity! National Childbirth Trust Supporting parents through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood, The National Childbirth Trust are looking for Community Birth and Beyond Companions. These voluntary companions provide one to one

support to women accessing their maternity and post natal services. The role involves working specifically with asylum seekers and refugees, with tasks based around attending drops ins, children’s centres and community groups. Full training is provided. Applicants must be female and aged 18+. Location: Across Kirklees

National Children’s Centre The NCC provides practical services aimed at improving the lives of children, young people and families. Volunteers are needed to help with the Uniform Exchange Project – helping sort donated school uniforms for families in need, as well as well as to help with their Pass It On Charity Shops. Available roles include Volunteer Drivers Mate – to help with the collection of furniture and other donations, Shop Assistants – to provide customer service in the Pass It On Shops, and Shop IT Support – to sort and list donated items online. Volunteers are also needed for their Step Up foundation learning programme aimed at 16-19 years olds. Location: Huddersfield and across Kirklees

Northorpe Hall Trust The Northorpe Hall Trust works with children and young people on a variety of projects. They are looking for Volunteer Mentors to provide a flexible, practical and informal one to one support service for young people. Mentors spend time with a young person befriending, advising and supporting them. Parent / Family Support Workers are also required; to help support clients with any difficulties they maye be experiencing such as low self esteem and confidence, as

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well as Children’s Centre volunteers and Trustees. Location: Kirklees.

OXFAM OXFAM works with others to overcome poverty and suffering. They currently have a variety of opportunities available across Kirklees, including Product Sorters to help photograph and list donated goods online and Shop Workers for their numerous stores.OXFAM Bookbarn also requires volunteers to help sort, process and sell donated books, cds and dvds online. Location: Huddersfield, Cleckheaton, and Mirfield

Paddock Community Trust Paddock Community Trust is a charity which supports and finds resources (both cash and people) for community projects that will make Paddock Village a better place to live, learn, work and play. Dealing with a variety of projects, they are offering a broad range of volunteering opportunities; from volunteer gardeners to help out on a community allotment project, to Walk Leaders who will lead a group of South East Asian women on weekly walks, and I.T. Buddies; who can offer I.T. support at workshops across Kirklees – including helping clients use popular websites such as Facebook and Skype, an advanced Mircosoft office software.The Trust has recently opened the West View Community Cafe, for which they also require Cafe (either front of house or in the kitchen) and Community Shop Assistants. Location: Huddersfield

New Opportunity! Pennine Domestic Violence Group The Pennine Domestic Violence Group (PDVG) believe that woman and children have the right to live free from all forms of abuse and have the right to be safe from potential or actual harm at all times. The organisation actively contributes to the raising of awareness of domestic violence issues.They require a Treasurer to join their voluntary Management Committee. The role will involve attending evening meetings on a six weekly basis (currently alternating between Tuesday and Thursday evenings). The volunteer will also be required to be part of the finance sub group, which meets approximately once a quarter in the evening. They will also be required to take responsibility for carrying out internal checks of income and expenditure against bank statements. Location: South Kirklees

Prince’s Trust Around one in five young people in the UK are not in work, education or training. The Prince’s Trust aims to address the by giving practical and financial support to the young people who need it most.The Trust is looking for people who can share their skills & experience with young people setting up in business as Business Mentors and Development Assessors to gather information to assess a young persons eligibility for an award. Programme Volunteers are also required. Location: Throughout Kirklees.

Refugee Council The Refugee Council work to ensure that refugees are given the protection they need, treated with respect and understanding, and that they have the same rights, opportunities and responsibilities as other members of society. Their Wraparound Services

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Team (WST) is based within the initial accommodation for asylum seekers in Barnsley and Huddersfield. They require Admin and Reception Support Volunteers to offer support, information and guidance living with the accommodation, as well as greeting visiting, taking messages, filing and answering telephone enquiries. They are also looking for Project Work Assistance Volunteers – who will provide assistance to Project Workers in screening the needs of new refugees, helping co-ordinate support and dealing with general enquiries. Location: Huddersfield

RSPCA With a long history of caring for and finding new homes for unwanted animals, the RSPCA have long been one of the most respected animal charities in the UK. They are looking for Volunteers to assist their Fundraising and Administration work. Location: Huddersfield

Scope Volunteers are required to help out at Scope, which is a registered charity for adults with a physical or sensory disability enabling people to lead an independent lifestyle of their choice. Volunteers are needed for the charity shop in Batley helping on the tills or in the stockroom. Location: Batley

New Opportunity! Slaithwaite Community Association Slaithwaite Community Association is run by a group of volunteers who ‘caretake’ the centre and deal with the day-to-day running of the centre. Their main aim is to provide good facilities for user groups and promote the social welfare of the local inhabitants through education, recreation and leisure time occupation.Committee Members are

required to offer fresh ideas, a professional perspective and valuable experience and expertise to help the Association achieve its aims for 2012. These aims include securing key funding, improve ICT access and enabling the centre to deliver workshops and training courses. Someone with great communication and organisational skills and ideally holding Business/Project Management experience would be perfect. Location: Slaithwaite, Huddersfield

Society For The Blind Based in Batley, this local charity (which was formed in 1918) works to enhance the lives of local visually impaired people in North Kirklees. Volunteers are needed who can lead or assist at their craft sessions; which are held at the centre and include activities such as cookery, tai-chi and pottery, or to act as guides on one of their regular outings. They also require Kitchen and Recycling volunteers, as well volunteers to staff their information bus, Sewing Volunteers, and Sighted Guiding Facilitators – to help provide training on how to guide and interact with people with visual impairments. Location: Batley

St Anne’s Befriending and Community Services Based in the St Matthews Centre in Dewsbury, St. Anne’s work with people with learning and physical disabilities, mental health problems and people with drug, alcohol and substance abuse issues. Volunteers are needed to act as Befrienders across Kirklees. Location: Throughout Kirklees

New Opportunity! Stirley Community Farm Stirley Community Farm is a 250-acre upland farm to the south of Castle Hill,

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Huddersfield, which promotes nature conservation and local food. Volunteer gardeners are required to tend to the fruit and vegetable planted by the groups. This will involve seed sowing, weeding, mulching and planting out, as well as harvesting vegetable boxes for displays and community group use. A volunteer is also required to mow around the vegetable beds and paths around their new orchard and meadow, to keep the site looking tidy for visitors. Location: Huddersfield

St Johns Ambulance If you would like to receive first class training to become a First Aider or Community First Responder then volunteering with St John’s is for you. Volunteers are required to perform First Aid services at a variety of public events throughout the County. Also to attend to emergency calls on behalf of the ambulance service to care for members of the community whilst the ambulance is on its way. St. Johns’ Ambulance is now actively recruiting in North Kirklees, and are also looking for ambulance attendants and fundraisers. Location: Throughout Kirklees

New Opportunity! Thornhill Lees Community Centre A community centre that gives local people the chance to access education opportunities and provides youth activities, IT facilities and meeting rooms for groups. Volunteers are required for the reception area, where duties will include meeting and greeting guests, signposting, answering the telephone and taking bookings. A great opportunity for

volunteers with an interest in computers and administration. Will accommodate for volunteers who only want to reception work and not admin tasks. Location: Dewsbury

New Opportunity! The Thursday Club Held at the DRAM Centre in Dalton, The Thursday Club is place where the elderly can get together, eat lunch, play bingo and take part in a number of arts, crafts and social activities. They are looking for a volunteer driver to help collect people from their homes and take them to the DRAM Centre, and vice versa. Driver required every other Thursday – ideal for anyone wanting a part time commitment. Volunteers must have held a driver license before 01/01/97. Location: Huddersfield

New Opportunity! The Welcome Centre A small charity that supports local people in crisis, The Welcome Centre provide practical support in the form of food packs, toiletries and home-start kits to vulnerable individuals and families in need. A Treasurer / Committee Member is required to oversee and present budgets, accounts and financial statements. Committee Members will also be involved in fundraising, applying for funding as well as publicity and marketing roles. This is a great opportunity to help families in need and gain experience in everything from administration to marketing and PR. Location: Huddersfield and throughout South Kirklees

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West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy Project (WYCCP) The aim of the project is to help offenders resettle into the community: engaging faith communities in this process, but open to all faiths and no faith. Volunteer link workers are required to support ex-offenders in practical skills eg. helping them with housing, employment, training, drug and alcohol issues. Location: Throughout Kirklees

New Opportunity! West Yorkshire Dog Rescue West Yorkshire Dog Rescue takes in and cares for unwanted dogs and finds them suitable homes.The organisation require a chairperson to drive the charity forward by helping to establish and follow a strategic plan; ensuring that there are organisational structures and processes in place that make long term sustainability a viable goal. A volunteer is also required for a very rewarding opportunity to provide foster care for rescue dogs. The organisation will match the dog to the foster's requirements. Duties include taking dogs to the vets as required, talk to potential owners and allow viewings of the dogs.Commitment of 2 weeks- 2 months required. Location: Kirklees

New Opportunity! William Henry Smith School The William Henry Smith School provides a caring, secure and stimulating learning environment for boys aged between 8-16 years. A Voluntary Research and Development Officer is needed to work alongside the external IT manager to offer their creative skills to research the new school management information system, examine the requirements of the school and decide whether existing school systems will be suitable.

Location: Rastrick, Brighouse.

WomenCentre Calderdale & Kirklees WomenCentre have one-stop centres in Halifax & Huddersfield and also provide outreach support services to women and children throughout Calderdale & Kirklees. Volunteers are required in a variety of roles including Volunteers Mentors who work with women at risk of offending at their drop in centres.Support Development volunteers are needed in the Dewsbury area. In addition, Walk Leaders - to run activities encouraging use of green spaces, as well as Admin Support volunteers in Huddersfield and Halifax, are also required. Location: Around Kirklees

New Opportunity! WRVS Kirklees WRVS believe in making Britain a great place to grow old. They provide personal and practical support so that older people can stay independent at home and active in their local community. Several opportunities with older or vulnerable adults are available in Kirklees, including Face to Face Befrienders, Telephone Befrienders, Fundraisers, Cool 2 Eat Tutors, IT Buddies, Activity Co-ordinators and Admin Support. They are also looking for volunteers for their Home From Hospital scheme – providing support whilst people recover from and adapt to life back outside of hospital. All these roles offer a great way for volunteers to gain experience and bring cheer into the lives of older people within Kirklees. Location: Kirklees

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Volunteering for Young People The Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme is dedicated to the personal development of young people. There is a volunteering element in this scheme which is aimed at young people over the age of 14.

Volunteering from Home There are a number of opportunities to volunteer from home such as: - Friend to Friend - Telephone Befriender - Bereavement Trust - Helpline Volunteer - Leukaemia Care - Telephone Contact - SCARD – Helpline Volunteer - Guide Dogs – Puppy Walker - Marie Curie – Newspaper Reader - Help From Home – Make a difference from the comfort of their own home.

Overseas Volunteering There are also around 100 agencies in Britain that place volunteers abroad on work placements.If you want to know more, check out the following websites: www.vso.org.uk www.voluntaryworker.co.uk www.globalxperience.com www.volunteering.org.uk

Experience Himalayan Nepal Working towards building a low cost non profit organisation in Nepal to develop projects that make a real difference to the people of the country. This is an exciting opportunity to volunteer and help alongside the Nepali staff at the centre, talk with patients, and experience how rural life works north of Kathmandu. Accomodation is provided by local families, with a least one member possessing a strong grasp of English. This is an ideal placement for medical students looking for experience of working in basic conditions and in a very remote place. Location: Close to Kathmandu, Nepal

Supported Volunteering The Gateway Volunteering Service offers extra support to people wanting to volunteer who have physical or learning disabilities, mental health needs, caring responsibilities or low levels of confidence. For more information call 01484 414774 email: gatewayvolunteers@kirklees.gov.uk

Volunteer Mentors Volunteers Mentors are now able at Volunteering Kirklees to help you start volunteering. Our trained mentors can provide support with; making appointments, completing applications forms, attending interviews and helping you to start your role. For more information contact the Volunteer Centre on 01484 518457 or email vk@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk

Text Updates If you would like to be updated about the volunteering opportunities by text, please text one of the following keywords for your area of interest to 07786 205 227 : For Arts & Crafts text VOLK ARTS For Education & Literacy text VOLK EDUCATION For One Off opportunities text VOLK ONEOFF For Caring & Elderly text VOLK CARING For Sport & Development text VOLK SPORT For Environment & Conservation text VOLK ENVIRONMNT For Administration & IT text VOLK ADMIN For DIY & Practical text VOLK PRACTICAL For Retail / Charity Shops text VOLK RETAIL For mentoring text VOLK MENTOR For community text VOLK COMMUNITY

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WHAT YOU CAN DO AS A VOLUNTEER

Listed below are some of the areas of activity that volunteers can get involved in

Administration Education & Literacy Advice and Support Elderly Animals/Wildlife Families Arts and Culture First Aid Befriending Fundraising Caring Health, Hospitals and Hospice Catering Media/PR/Marketing Charity Shops Mental Health Children and Youth Mentoring Community Work Prisoners and Ex Offenders Conservation/Environment Practical Work and DIY Disability Sport & Development Driving Trustee & Community Work