Volunteercorner

THIS week is National Volunteers’ week. It is a chance to say thanks to the millions of people across the UK who contribute so much by volunteering.

It is also a chance to promote volunteering and support our local charities to find more volunteers.

Here is a selection of just a few roles on our books.

Please visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough. org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer. If you would like to get in touch with us, please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@ wok-vol.org.uk.

■ Earleybus is a small charity that provides a 14-seat minibus for groups in the local area wanting to go out for lunch or afternoon tea, visit a garden centre, or a National Trust property or other areas of interest.

These trips are usually midweek and not weekends.

We are looking for volunteers who can occasionally drive the minibus.

You will not be required to drive on a regular basis on certain days, just help out as and when you can.

A D1 driving licence is required and full training would be given.

■ Cranstoun has been making life better for those affected by alcohol and drugs since 1969.

Our skilled and compassionate people work closely with service users and their families to change and save lives.

We combine proven expertise in treatment and recovery with innovative approaches and actively involve those wwe help in improving the design of the services we provide.

Our Wokingham service supports adults and young people who are affected by substance use. A key part of our young persons service is having excellent relationships with young people which enable them to trust us to help and support them.

We are looking for a volunteer to help us engage with young people in informal settings such as sports clubs, youth venues, and other community events.

There will be an element of participation in sports involved in this role so if you are passionate about sport and activity this opportunity may be for you.

The role will involve building effective professional relationships with young people and providing information and advice around drug and alcohol use in informal settings.

Experience of working with young people in a sports or youth work setting is preferred.

■ Citizens Advice Wokingham offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information to anyone living or working in Wokingham borough.

We are a local charity, based in Waterford House in central Wokingham.

We are looking to recruit volunteers who will talk to

clients over the phone, face to face or online to explore what problems they have come for help with and identify the right level of support for them.

You will be required to write a summary and the actions that need to be taken.

It is a chance to be a part of making a real difference to someone’s life by making sure the client’s receive the support they need.

You will gain knowledge in areas such as benefits, housing, debt and employment through training and then the role itself. It is a chance to gain new skills and meet new people.

You will need to be; friendly and approachable, non-judgmental, have good listening skills and excellent communication skills, good IT skills and be calm under pressure. We need a minimum of 6 months commitment, and we ask for 6 hours per week, which can be over one day or spread over two.