(1:1 volunteer counsellor, 1:1 volunteer support worker or group volunteer)

About the opportunity

We are looking for bereavement volunteers to provide emotional and psychological support for (primarily) children aged 3-18 years (and some adults). 1:1 volunteers work with three clients per week (four hours per week commitment). They are based in either our Newark Centre or outreach venues across Nottinghamshire, including Rushcliffe, City, Mansfield and Bassetlaw. Group volunteers assist with monthly peer support groups, family groups and ad hoc workshops e.g. Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas.

What does the role involve?

• Assisting the children as they compile memory books, complete worksheets and undertake crafts, games and activities which enable them to express their feelings.
• 1:1 volunteers deliver 1:1 sessions involving therapeutic play and creative techniques to allow the children to explore and express their experiences and feelings in a safe, secure and accepting environment.
• Group volunteers create an age-appropriate environment, where children and young people can feel safe enough to share their experiences of loss with each other, whilst also enjoying activities and workshops.
• 1:1 volunteers record sessions on the charity’s database.
• All bereavement volunteers are required to discuss any issues of concern about the wellbeing or safety.

About the Children’s Bereavement Centre

The Children’s Bereavement Centre supports 3–18-year-olds and their families from Nottinghamshire and South Lincolnshire.  They are all experiencing life-changing trauma due to the death or terminal illness of someone important to them. We offer 1:1 bereavement support sessions for both young people and adults. We also provide a peer support group, specialist workshops, community therapeutic events and an annual bereavement residential. We deliver training for schools, professionals, and volunteers. Our aim is to provide a network of effective support around every bereaved young person, to ensure the best outcomes for all.

What are we looking for?

• Empathetic
• A sound understanding of the importance of confidentiality
• The ability to take on a variety of tasks to help with all aspects of 1:1 and/or group support
• Knowledge of safeguarding children and young people
• Good communication and listening skills
• Good level of administration and record-keeping
• Experience of working in a team
• Experience of lone working
• Experience of working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
• Enthusiastic and motivated
• 2+ years’ experience with children/young people

Desirable criteria

• Knowledge of family dynamics and attachment theory
• Experience/training in supporting children through loss/bereavement
• Counselling skills certificate, equivalent or above

Practical considerations 

• Age/gender restrictions: Over 21s
• Disabled access: Not guaranteed at venues
• Expenses covered: Yes (fuel & contribution to external supervision for 1:1 volunteers)
• Induction: Yes
• Insurance cover: Yes
• Support & training on offer: Yes (includes peer supervision, mentor, and training)

For more information, please call 01636 551739 or email anna@childrensbereavementcentre.co.uk