Volunteering
with Aberconwy Mind
Qualities And Attitudes We Look For
Attitudes sympathetic to the aims and philosophy of Aberconwy Mind
Ability to treat people with respect
Ability to listen
Ability to accept the views and opinions of others in a non-judgemental way
Willingness to work as a member of a team
Reliability
In Return, We Offer
Basic training on the work of Mind, mental health issues, listening skills and other topics of interest.
One to one support
Volunteers support group
The opportunity to become more involved in the work of Mind and develop skills
Travel expenses!
The role of the volunteer is to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere; to make sure that everyone is included and no-one feels left out (unless they want to have some time on their own)
It is important to be aware of the needs of others and to respond to them appropriately.
Welcome with a cup of tea and provide a friendly ear
The centre is somewhere where people can call in and be certain of a welcome, a cup of tea and some one to talk to. At times people will want to talk about the things that are troubling them and we offer the opportunity for just that. However, it is important to note that we are a listening service, not a counselling service.
Core Training
As part of your commitment to the centre, our volunteers are expected to make every effort to attend the core training provided and to attend weekly volunteer support group at least once a month. Volunteers will also be expected to observe the rules of confidentiality.
Our Basic Philosophies
One of the basic philosophies of Mind is to encourage self-help and mutual support, to enable and to encourage people to grow in confidence and to develop new skills or regain old ones However, it is important to be aware that there are limitations that you probably can not solve other people problems, but you should never underestimate the value of offering a friendly, non-judgemental and supportive ear!
Potential Volunteers
Initial Interview
All potential volunteers will be interviewed by our Drop-in Worker. During this interview you will be given basic information about Aberconwy Mind, our work and philosophy. You will also be made aware of the kind of support and help you will receive whilst volunteering including training and payment of expenses.
Sit in, experience and meet us first
At the end of this initial interview, you will be given an application form to complete, and also be asked to do a "sit in" day. This will give potential volunteers time to discover whether volunteering with Aberconwy Mind is suitable for you, and to identify any activity that you would like to be committed to on a regular basis. It also gives other volunteers and service users the opportunity to meet you.
Some things we need to check
Aberconwy Mind will ensure that its recruitment and selection procedures will take account of the need to protect vulnerable adults. All prospective volunteers will have to agree to an appropriate Criminal Record Bureau check.
Full Induction for New Volunteers
Induction for the new volunteers will include information on all relevant policies and procedure, including the protection of vulnerable adults, and on-going training will be provided if necessary.