VOLUNTEER CORNER
ABC to Read believe life is better when everyone can read and express themselves confidently. Our trained reading mentors provide children with the skills and confidence they need to do just that.
A decline in the percentage of Berkshire children achieving the expected level for reading in the recently published Key Stage 2 SATs results, local charity ABC (Assisting Berkshire Children) to read is keen to do all it can to help schools and families in the borough to raise children’s achievement.
ABC to Read say it is waiting to place volunteers in schools that are requesting our support, but needs more volunteers to come forward to help with this vital service.
Volunteers would be working within a local school, ideally twice a week for one-and-a-half hours in the afternoons, but once a week will be considered.
The role is extremely rewarding, learning new skills and strengthens our community. The next training course is being held on July 12, so please contact us ASAP if you are interested.
Volunteer placements would then start in September.
High Close School in Wokingham is a Barnardo’s special school offering day and residential provision for young people with complex social, emotional and mental health needs.
It engages young people with a positive learning environment that helps them become more academically, socially and emotionally resilient in order to give them the best possible life chances. Following the departure of several long-standing governors, and the appointment of a new Principal, the school is looking for a Chair of Governors and Community Governors to strengthen the existing governing body.
It is not looking for specific skills sets, although volunteers must be passionate about improving the lives of young people.
The Governors need to provide the right mix of people to provide support and challenge to the school's Senior Leadership Team and to help drive the school forward in the next stage of its development.
The Link Visiting Scheme aims to offer friendship and support to anyone who feels lonely and isolated.
It relies on our volunteer Befrienders to improve and enhance the lives of older people.
It does this through quality time and focused attention; a chance to hear stories of days gone by and build a connection.
It asks volunteers to give one or two hours per week or per fortnight to visit and offer friendship and support. Regular visits are our minimum requirement for at least six months.
The Link provides training before you start visiting and on-going training if you need it.
It also has a support structure in place so you can always call on someone if you have any questions or concerns.
The Link stays in touch regularly and put on events so you can meet other volunteers too.
Please contact us at The Wokingham Volunteer Centre for more information on the above roles Tel. 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or visit our website www.volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the many roles we have to offer.