Organisation Name:
Refugee Council
Organisation's Cause(s):
Local Community
Men
Migrant Support
Location of voluntary activity:
Central York
When are volunteers needed: Alternate Thursdays, 10:30am-12:30pm
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Community Work
Group Facilitation
Role description:
Men’s Group Volunteers support refugees to build their confidence, integrate into the local community and work towards self-reliance. They will plan the sessions according to the group's needs and interests. The sessions can sometimes include visits to various places in York, and the volunteers will ensure that men attending the group are comfortable and safe throughout. Supporting people to practise their English is a large part of the role.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
Useful experience
• Experience of taking part in or organising community groups would be desirable but not essential.
• Experience working with individuals who have a low level of proficiency in the English language is desirable but not essential.
Useful skills, knowledge, and abilities
• Great communication and interpersonal skills
• Proactive and takes initiative; organised
• Encouraging and empowering
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Willingness to empathise and learn about refugee issues
• Sensitivity to working in a multi-cultural organisation and the ability to work with colleagues from other cultures
• A commitment to the Refugee Council’s vision, purpose and values
• Knowledge of Arabic, Pashto, or Dari would be desirable, but not essential.
Will there be a DBS check? Yes
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Ongoing Volunteering
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
• The Refugee Council is one of the leading organisations in the UK working with refugees and people seeking asylum; you will have the opportunity to be part of a dedicated and experienced team.
• Experience working with refugees: Volunteers will work directly with their clients, and so will become more aware of the issues facing refugees.
• Intercultural communication skills: Volunteers will learn to effectively communicate with people from different countries and cultures.
• Experience working with low-level English speakers: Clients will often have low levels of English, and so befrienders will gain experience on how to effectively communicate in these situations.
• Experience planning activities: Through researching and organising activities, volunteers will gain relevant transferable skills.
• Making a difference: Volunteers will work with refugees who are often vulnerable and help them to gain confidence and improve their English. This experience is invaluable for refugees and makes a real difference to their lives.
• Volunteers will be given training before starting the role and will have the opportunity to attend further training as part of the Refugee Council team.
How to get involved:
If you are interested, please follow the link below to either get in touch and arrange a chat, or to complete the online form.
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 31-07-2025