We are always looking for new volunteers to help out at our projects. Some people move on to volunteer after they have participated in projects, for example young people looking for experience to put on their CV, or adults who want to ‘give something back’ when they have benefitted from taking part. Others come to help with spare time after retirement, alongside part time work or other commitments, or during recuperation from illness.
There are numerous roles for volunteers:
Supporting sessions – shadowing the artist workshop leaders, providing one-to-one support for participants, practical help in setting up sessions and clearing up afterwards, making drinks and keeping eye out for anything that is needed. Our youth projects are often teatime, evening or weekends with intensive periods of work in school holidays. Our adult sessions tend to be daytime, weekday, with other one-off events spread throughout the year.
Supporting projects – This could be based at the office, e.g. processing photos from projects, or out and about, e.g. delivering and picking up equipment.
Promotion of projects and events – helping to spread the word, from sharing our posts on social media to delivering posters and flyers to venues around the High Peak.
Behind the scenes – periodically we need support at the office, from doing some research, inputting data or office clear out days.
What we look for in a volunteer:
This depends on the role, but ideally we look for good people skills, friendliness and an interest in helping others. Volunteers also sometimes use specific arts skills such as computer software, photography or design, or experience of working with a particular group of participants. Again, depending on the role we would need to process a Data and Barring Service (DBS) criminal records check, and if the role involved using our van you would need a driving licence.
What can you get out of it?
On a practical level, we always pay our volunteers’ expenses, e.g. a mileage rate for travel or public transport expenses. We also spend time at the beginning of a placement to find out what someone wants to get out of it, for example a reference for future employers or personal development of skills.
Some people move on from volunteering to join our board of Trustees, or they move on into employment and just stay in touch as a supporter! Add link to becoming a trustee
If you are interested please contact us and have a chat or print off and fill in this application form and return to us.
