Our DBS Service
Ashford Volunteer Centre is able to carry out DBS checks. It is a DBS Umbrella Service, which means that we can train other VCSE organisations to be evidence checkers for their organisation.
We charge for DBS checks:
£10 - administration fee for volunteer DBS checks
£60 - fee (including administration fee) for staff/employee checks.
For more information about DBS checks:
Published by Beth Peal on 17/11/2023 13:27:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 17/11/2023 13:27:00
Trustees Week Free Webinars 1 - 6 November 2023
Trustees’ Week is an annual celebration of the huge role that trustees play in the successful running of every charity.
This year NCVO is focusing on how trustees can use the principles around positive environmental, social, and governance action (ESG) to lead their charities to the future.
Join them at one of their Trustees’ Week events to learn and share with other trustees who are passionate about building strong, sustainable organisations and communities.
- How decision makers can lead on climate action
6 November | Book your place
Learn how charity trustees can start the conversation about climate action, and the wider benefits it can have for your organisation.
- Keeping our money green
7 November | Book your place
Whether you currently invest your funds or are just starting to think about how your money can go further through banking and pensions, this webinar will give you more information about sustainable financial management.
- Why diverse boards make more impactful decisions
8 November | Book your place
We’ll discuss why having a range of perspectives and experiences in your board helps you make better decisions and can make your organisation more impactful.
- Volunteers leading volunteers
9 November | Book your place
Join this session to explore the unique role of trustees as volunteers and how engaging in good ESG practices helps our volunteering go further.
Published by Beth Peal on 14/10/2023 10:24:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 14/10/2023 10:26:00
Volunteer drivers - urgently needed
Can you help?
We really need more people to help be a volunteer driver to help local people get to medical and essential appointment.
Full support given.
Expenses (mileage) reinbursed.
Positive, rewarding volunteer role.
For an informal chat or more information - contact Nikki 01233 665535 or email nikki.townsend@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Beth Peal on 14/10/2023 09:37:00
Volunteering in Kent Surveys 2023 - Coming Soon
There will be some surveys coming out in October 2023 to find out more about volunteering in Kent.
They will be aimed at different audiences e.g. Volunteer Managers, Volunteers, People who volunteer as part of their paid work etc.
More details on the surveys will be on this website and coming soon - watch this space!
Published by Beth Peal on 13/09/2023 11:20:00
Care Jobs Open Day - 19th September
Kent County Council is pleased to work with The Princes Trust to provide a care jobs open day 10am - 3pm on Tuesday 19th September 2023, for you to find out more about jobs in the care sector and apply for vacancies that you may be interested in.
The event will be at the Ashford Picture House in Elwick Road.
This is an opportunity to understand what we do in the care sector and consider if it might be a job for you. It is open to everyone- all ages, experienced, non-experienced, those who have cared for family members etc.
You can drop in anytime throughout the day to speak to us about the different types of roles in the sector to see what might suit you best. There are 100's of roles in the care sector - not just hands on care!
You also have the option to visit the stands to speak with employers and see what vacancies are available.
Come and join us, you will receive a warm welcome and it might be the opportunity you are looking for.
PLEASE NOTE - for those in the 18-30yr age group - you have the opportunity to attend an online interview preparation session on 15 September with the Princes Trust, in readiness for this career event. Please use
this link to book your place onto the session.
If you prefer to speak to someone first just send us an email and we will get back to you; kentregisteredmanager@kent.gov.uk
Published by Beth Peal on 30/08/2023 09:39:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/09/2023 18:29:00
Office volunteers needed - weekday morning
Ashford Volunteer Centre are looking for volunteers to help, in the office, Mon to Fri with their volunteer transport scheme and befriending scheme.
Its a flexible volunteering opportunity and would last a couple of hours each week.
If this is something that may interest you, we'd love to have a conversation with you about it and see what happens!
Register your interest at contact@ashfordvc.org.uk or telephone 01233 665535
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:19:00
Charing volunteer drivers needed
We are looking specifically for drivers in the Charing area who can help with our volunteer driver scheme, which helps people get to essential medical appointments. Expenses paid and this is a very flexible volunteering opportunity.
Remember you can't help everyone but you can help somone!
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:15:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:15:00
Free resources to support your community group
There are over 100 different free resources for your community group on kentvolunteers that you can access.
Resources cover all volunteer management issues e.g. useful templates for expenses claims, volunteer agreements to signposting to useful local funders to information on youth volunteering and the Kings Award for Voluntary services.
What more could you want! Head over to kentvolunteers.org.uk to access the free resources.
If you can't find a resource you need or want more help please do not hesitate to contact us at the Volunteer Centre and we will be happy to help telephone 01233 665535 or email contact@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:04:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:13:00
Money talk
Kent County Council has partnered with the Money and Pension Service to act as an umbrella organisation for their Money Guiders Programme. The programme is for professionals in all services across Kent who regularly have conversations with people about their money and would like to feel confident that they are giving the correct non-regulated money guidance.
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:03:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:03:00
Free funding Advice Sessions - Tenterden
Funding for All is offering one-to-one fundraising advice for all small charities, voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises in Kent and Medway. The 20-minute advice sessions are available in person in Tenterden, or by phone/video link but reservations are essential.
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 14:01:00
Counselling Skills For Non Counsellors Courses
Relate is running a three-day workshop for anyone who wants to learn how to support others.
The course is called Counselling Skills for Non Counsellors. It will be held in Ashford on September 8th, 15th and 22nd and costs £369.
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:53:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:54:00
National Vision of Volunteering
Did you know that organisations across the country are coming together to work on a National Vision of Volunteering?
Find out more about the vision and how you can get involved:
Got to: https://www.visionforvolunteering.org.uk/
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:51:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:51:00
Volunteers needed!
Over 500 different community groups in Kent need volunteers.
Head over to kentvolunteers.org.uk and you will find over 600 live volunteer opportunities.
If you register with the site you can register directly with a community organisation that wants a volunteer.
If looking at the volunteer opportunities available and can't see anything that works for you - don't worry! You can register on the Kent Volunteers' Volunteer Pool and, if you want, organisations with their volunteer opportunities that they have that they think may suit you, can safely approach you to see if you want to apply for their volunteering opportunities.
Published by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:47:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 19/07/2023 13:48:00
NHS Blood and Transplant
We are holding an extra
blood donation session
at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
110 Canterbury Road, Ashford Kent TN24 9QA
on Wednesday 2nd February 2022 and have appointments available between 13:30 – 20:00
To book an appointment
.visit us at co.uk
.download our app NHSGIVE BLOOD
.call us on 0300 123 23 23
We have extra safety measures in place to allow for social distancing and ask that you come alone to session and, where possible, do not bring children at this time.
Published by Niban Sherpa on 27/01/2022 09:59:00
Office Volunteer at AVC
We are looking for volunteers to help in our Transport office. This will involve taking phone calls from clients to book a trip with one of our volunteer drivers, entering details on our booking system and liaising with drivers to give trip details.
Basic IT skills and a kind, confident telephone manner are all that is needed for this role.
Hours available are 9.30am-12.30pm, various days available.
Please contact lisa.mclaren@ashfordvc.org.uk for more info
Published by Lisa McLaren on 11/01/2022 17:36:00
Volunteer Advocate
Volunteer Advocate for CROP (Citizens Rights for Older People)
Many older people struggle to access information and advice because they cannot get out, don't have a computer, or find it too stressful by phone. They tell us it makes a huge difference having a face-to-face visit. If you can give a few hours a week to take on a case issue to help an older person - we want to hear from you! With your support these are some of the issues you can help with: *Completing Forms such as Attendance Allowance/Blue Badge Forms *Help make a complaint * Research Information on choices/options *Access care and community services *Writing letters and making phone calls * CROP VOLUNTEERS Feel valued * Make a Difference * Improve Life Full induction training provided * Team Support/Mentoring 24/7
Interested? Contact Debbie smith on 01622 851200 - email: lenham@cropkent.org.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 13/12/2021 13:50:00
Modified by Albert Hope on 13/12/2021 13:53:00
Admin Volunteer
Admin Volunteer for Cruse Bereavement South Kent
We are looking for admin volunteers to assist staff on some daily tasks, such as referrals and allocations, administration and donations and fundraising. The volunteer will have great IT skills and access to IT equipment as well as an ear for listening.
Interested? Contact Sarah-Jayne Larkins on 07802 827287 - email: sarah-jayne.larkins@cruse.org.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 09/12/2021 14:03:00
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
You are
invited to Ashford Volunteer Centre's 2020/2021 AGM which will take place via Zoom on
Monday 13th
December 2021 at 7.30pm.
To register to
attend this event, please sign up via Eventbrite.
A zoom link
will then be sent on the day of the meeting.
Published by Beth Peal on 01/12/2021 12:24:00
Volunteer for Young Carers Groups
Volunteer for Young Carers Groups for Macmillan Crossroads Kent and Medway
Macmillan Crossroads Care Kent and Medway Volunteer Service helps and supports people living with cancer and those that care for them, these can include Young Carers who care for a family member with any long-term illness, disability, mental health issue or substance misuse.
Our Young Carers Project gives 5-18 year olds the chance to meet with others in similar situations and share positive experiences. We offer regular group nights where they can join in various activities, arts and crafts, sports, workshops, emotional wellbeing sessions, cookery and games. We offer respite days out mainly during school holidays, giving them the opportunity to share new experiences with peers who understand them and adults who offer empathy and support. If you would enjoy working within our dedicated team and supporting these children and young people at their groups, for a couple of hours in the evenings during the week, different nights and times are available in the Maidstone, Ashford and Sittingbourne areas, please apply via the website, we would love to hear from you.
Interested? Contact Please contact the team on 03450956701 - email: enquiries.macmillan@crossroadskent.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CRCKYoungCarers/
Published by Albert Hope on 25/11/2021 13:37:00
Pin Badge Box Volunteer
Pin Badge Box Volunteer for RSPB
This role involves approaching various sites in your local area, such as shops or cafes, and asking them to support the RSPB by hosting a pin badge box on their premises. As well as: Collecting the money and topping up your boxes with extra pin badges, every 4 -6 weeks (depending on the site and your convenience). Counting the money and banking the donations from boxes. Ensuring that pin badge boxes are in a good condition, replacing where necessary. Using our user-friendly website to record your banked donations.
Interested? Contact Kostas Smponias Community Fundraiser, South East of England on 07395 852629
Email: kostas.smponias@rspb.org.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 09/11/2021 12:36:00
Modified by Albert Hope on 09/11/2021 12:58:00
Dover board Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to work at the Port of Dover and Folkstone Immigration Holding Room. The IMB monitors the welfare and treatment of people held in these facilities, as well as monitoring the facilities at the Western Docks.
The role of the member of the board is to report on the detention facility's standards. You must be over 18 to apply but your background can be as a student, a person working age or retired. We are particularly keen to hear from those of working age and individuals from black and minority ethnic communities, since these group are under-represented on the existing board.
For more information and to apply please go to https://www.imb.org.uk/join-now/current-vacancies/
Please quote 1148/Dover/2021on your application
Closing date 14th November 2021
Published by Niban Sherpa on 09/11/2021 10:45:00
Modified by Niban Sherpa on 09/11/2021 10:46:00
Volunteers needed for Woodpeckers of Kent
Woodpeckers of Kent Ltd are seeking volunteers.
They operate a wood waste collection service and work extensively with the construction sector but also with any organisations that generate waste wood.
Their focus is on carefully sorting and reusing as much of the collected wood as possible; anything suitable is offered back to the community for their DIY/building projects; much is used to make a wide range of wood products or for firewood and kindling. Nothing is returned to the waste stream. The goal is to find the best environmental use for each piece.
This labour-intensive activity creates paid jobs, training and volunteering places for the community – including ex-offenders, those coming through drug or alcohol problems, people with mental health or learning difficulties or those who have simply lost their confidence and self-esteem due to long-term unemployment.
They are currently looking for volunteers that can help with the wood collections and the recycling process of the wood. As they start with the wood collections from building sites next week, they are looking for volunteers that are willing to work outdoors. After an initial training, volunteers will be ready to support and enjoy contributing to a sustainable cause.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 04/11/2021 10:46:00
Branch Admin Coordinator
Branch Admin Coordinator for SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity
The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders. Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation and IT skills.
You will be overseeing enquiries and the administration of the branch shared email inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered; and getting people together, organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face.
Interested? Contact Lorna Muffett on 02074639200
email: lorna.muffett@ssafa.org.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 01/11/2021 14:01:00
Branch Support Coordinator
Branch Support Coordinator for SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity
Do you enjoy teamwork and supporting people? Are you empathetic and non-judgemental? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just the ability to communicate with people, and a commitment to supporting high quality service delivery. The Branch Support Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring that beneficiaries access the right support in a timely manner. This role involves liaising with regional and national teams and coordinating casework support provided to beneficiaries by Branch volunteers. You will be a key member of the team, ensuring that beneficiaries access the right support in a timely manner. You will support volunteers: ensuring volunteer caseworkers have a manageable caseload and that effective support and supervision is in place.
Interested? Contact Lorna Muffett on 020 7463 9200
Email: lorna.muffett@ssafa.org.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 01/11/2021 13:53:00
Independent Visitor
Independent Visitor who can support a young person in Ashford, Folkstone, Ramsgate, Margate, Deal, Broadstairs and Herne Bay
Meeting with a young person in care (aged 8 -17) and befriending over time. Monthly budget of £35 and mileage paid. Activities are dependent on the wishes of the young person.
Intensive virtual training, including safeguarding and risk assessing.
On-going supervision. 2+ year commitment required.
Interested? Contact Independent Visitor Team on 03302 228990
email: Independent.visitors@westsussex.gov.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 28/10/2021 13:03:00
Modified by Albert Hope on 28/10/2021 16:37:00
Walking Football leader
Walking Football leader for Freedom Leisure
Tasks will involve leading the sessions; providing an enjoyable experience while ensuring that all of the players abide to the rules and play safely
Interested? Contact Lauren on 07792346324 - email: lauren.piper@freedom-lesiure.co.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 21/10/2021 16:42:00
General administration
General administration - various activities / home based for KM Charity Team
We have several administration tasks and activities including updating our database, liaising with schools, researching potential community connections.
Interested? Contact Jo Homes on 01227 475966 - email: kmcharityteam@thekmgroup.co.uk
Published by Albert Hope on 20/10/2021 14:20:00
Volunteer Van Driver
Volunteer Van Driver for Royal British Legion Industries for RBLI
RBLI are looking for drivers to help us deliver our products produced in our Social Enterprise Britain's Bravest Manufacturing Company out to our customers in the local area. Drivers will have the use of our Ford Transit Curtainside van. The role will involve checking over the vehicle, loading products into the van and then driving and delivering at customer end. Most deliveries are local and reached within about an hour. Some deliveries are further but we can tailor the deliveries to suit shorter runs. Travel expenses to your volunteering will be paid in accordance with our Policy (current mileage .40p a mile). A vehicle licence check will be required.
Interested? Contact Dawn Pedder on 01622 795924 - email: volunteer@rbli.co.uk
Published by Lisa McLaren on 18/10/2021 15:03:00
Events Assistant for Equator Festival
Events Assistant - helping with setting up arts events - setting up tables, chairs, helping our tech team putting up marquees and gazebos, staging. Helping with refreshments on the refreshments stall and showing people to their seats and giving them some information about the events. Showing them where the toilets and other facilities are. Approx. 4 hours per week.
Based at Repton Community Centre, Repton Avenue, Ashford
Interested? Contact Priti Paintal on 07795967533 - email: events@equatorfestival.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 15/10/2021 13:46:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 15/10/2021 13:48:00
Various roles for Ashford Citizens Advice
Volunteer Generalist Advisor
Advising clients on varied enquiries, predominately, welfare benefits, debt, housing, employment, family & relationships & consumer. This role is for approximately 7 hours per week.
Trustee
Governance of Ashford Borough Citizens Advice - financial, marketing/promotion, fund raising & strategic planning. This role is for 4/5 meetings per annum.
Volunteer Form Filler
Prescribe for clients - form filling service - help fill in Personal Independence Forms, Disability Living Allowance. Work Capability Form. This role is for approximately 7 hours per week.
Interested in the above roles ? Contact Mrs Diane Downing on 01233 626185 - email: ashfordadvice@gmail.com
Fund Raiser
Join the Friends of Citizens Advice and help with fund raising events for Ashford Borough Citizens Advice. This role is for 4/5 meetings and fund raising events
Interested? Contact Mrs Deirdre Thom on 01233 626185 - email: ashfordadvice@gmail.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 14/10/2021 14:30:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 14/10/2021 15:48:00
IT Project Manager for Ashford Mediation
This project would initially take 15-20 hours per week, but would then significantly decrease to perhaps 3- 5 hours per week as the postholder puts in place the processes, procedures and systems required.
Oversee IT operations • IT support • Develop and implement an IT strategy for AMS including development of a disaster recovery plan. • Identify and propose appropriate systems for managing the Service (CRM). • Ensure that the systems used for the website and social media are secure and robust • Manage and track the IT budget. • Consult with senior-level stakeholders to identify business and technology needs • Monitoring systems performance. • Create processes and standards for selection, implementation, and support of systems. • Prepare quarterly IT reports. Qualifications Desired • Degree in IT • 8+ years of experience • Awareness of hardware and software platforms • Disaster recovery planning • Computer systems, security, network and systems administration, databases and data storage systems, CRM, monitoring service delivery, implications of GDPR • WordPress and website development • SAGE • Social Media platforms • Strong interpersonal skills • Excellent leadership and decision-making skills • Project management principles
Interested? Contact Sandra Malone on 07845914838 - email: info@ashfordmediation.co.uk
Published by Lisa McLaren on 14/10/2021 12:45:00
Various roles
Pilgrims Hospice are seeking volunteers for sales assistant and shop supervisor. Please see below for the role description for each volunteering opportunity.
Sales assistant: Cleaning, pricing, customer service, till operating. Opening closing shop. Hours are 25 per week at Wellesey Road.
Shop Supervisor: Organising shop from opening closing till, cleaning, pricing, display, customer service. Hours are 25 per week at Wellesey Road.
Interested? Please contact Peter Jacobs on 01233 646025 or email Peter.Jacobs@pilgrimshospices.org
Interested? Contact Peter Jacobs on 01233 646025 - email: Peter.Jacobs@pilgrimshospices.org
Published by Lisa McLaren on 05/10/2021 11:28:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 05/10/2021 12:05:00
Volunteer Driver required
Fareshare are desperately seeking volunteer drivers over the age of 25 to join them ASAP.
Fareshare operate Monday – Friday inclusive, their drivers operate on a schedule that starts at 08:30 and ends at an absolute maximum of 14:00.
Interested? Please contact Paul Underdown on 01233 500477
Published by Lisa McLaren on 01/10/2021 16:37:00
Cross Country Marshall
You will be assisting in the running of the primary school cross country series. This will include marshalling the car park, gates and the course.
These events are taking place at Godinton House on 4th and 11th October from approx 1pm each date for 4 hours.
Interested? Please contact Lauren Piper on 07792346324
Published by Lisa McLaren on 01/10/2021 14:06:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 01/10/2021 14:22:00
Various roles
Currently seeking volunteers for: - Secretary / Project Manager / Data Research support / Social media support / Business Champion Engagement officer / Ally/Community group Engagement officer
Plastic Free Ashford (PFA) is a volunteer group working to achieve accreditation from Surfers Against Sewage as one of the UK’s ‘Plastic Free Communities’. We are looking for new members to join the group. No specific experience is required however we are looking for volunteers with a can do attitude, positive thinking, keen to learn, can invest at least an hour a week to the cause and feel passionate about reducing single use plastic.
Please contact Nadege on 07912289517 or email on plasticfreeashford@outlook.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 30/09/2021 17:30:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 04/10/2021 12:21:00
Charity Shop Assistant
Charity Shop Assistant for Hospices Of Hope
General shop assistant role including the following: Customer service Sorting Donations Clothes Preparation Cash Till Pricing/labelling donated items Keeping the shop tidy Light-cleaning duties Washing bric-a-brac We can also take on just 'sorting' roles which would include all of the above excluding the till (although till is preferable if able)
Please contact Gemma on 01233 637737 or email ashford@hospicesofhope.co.uk
Published by Lisa McLaren on 30/09/2021 12:30:00
Volunteers for carriage-driving
Is looking for more people to join its team of volunteers providing carriage-driving experience for fun and therapy to adults with a range of disabilities. The group is made up of disabled drivers, companion drivers and volunteers. We come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring many skills and interests to the group. Our common bond is the ponies who give so much to everyone. They have the ability to instil trust and confidence and a sense of personal achievement where other channels have failed. We meet twice weekly on a Monday and Wednesday from spring to autumn and drive in beautiful fields, woods and an outdoor arena. Drivers enjoy honing their skills, competing against each other and at shows, whilst others just love being with the ponies, learning how to groom and care for them and taking part in games and fun pursuits. We are a registered, self-funding charity and fundraising for the ponies’ upkeep and essential equipment is achieved with events & social gatherings throughout the year. If you think you would enjoy volunteering with us please call us on 01233 860750 or visit our website: www.rdawoodchurch.co.uk. Prior experience is not essential, as training will be given
Published by Laura Salyers on 15/09/2021 09:40:00
Modified by Laura Salyers on 15/09/2021 09:43:00
Craft Lead
To be a part of the Community Garden team, muck in on some tasks and events (no one has to do anything) as are able and willing, also to set up and run some crafting events.
Published by Laura Salyers on 13/09/2021 15:28:00
Lead for children/education activities
Generally to be part of the team at the Community Garden - pitching in with various tasks and events (nobody has to do anything) as they are able and want to. Also to offer activities for children and liaising with schools to see if we can provide them with any of our services. This is a new Community Garden so the choice of what activities to provide is entirely up to the person responsible for running the activities.
Published by Laura Salyers on 13/09/2021 15:18:00
Volunteer with an environmental project
Do you care about the environment? Did you know that recycling wood reduces CO2 emissions?
Why not learn more, have fun, become part of the solution and join our team?
Woodpeckers of Kent is a community wood recycling project that is part of an award-winning network of social enterprises. Being part of a national network of social enterprises for wood recycling
https://www.communitywoodrecycling.org.uk our aims are to save resources and create sustainable jobs offer training and volunteering opportunities for the community.
Our focus is on carefully sorting and reusing as much of the collected wood as possible; anything suitable is offered back to the community for their DIY/building projects; much is used to make a wide range of wood products in our own workshop or for firewood and kindling.
We offer training and volunteering places for the community.We are helping to change lives!
Woodpeckers of Kent is part of the solution saving many thousands of tonnes of this precious resource and transforming many lives each year.
We are currently looking for volunteers that help us to deliver on our goals for the community.
If you are interested in supporting our local community with what we offer please email Erik at:
info@woodpeckersok.com We would love to hear from you!
Published by Lisa McLaren on 08/09/2021 15:18:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 08/09/2021 15:20:00
The Big Tidy - Volunteers Needed
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED to help tidy Ashford High Street
Wednesday, September 8th, 2021
9.45 am - 11 am
All Equipment Provided & Refreshments to follow
Meet at Ashford Volunteer Centre, Berwick House, 8 Elwick Rd., TN23 1PF
Published by Laura Salyers on 25/08/2021 16:37:00
Girlguiding volunteers required
Published by Lisa McLaren on 20/08/2021 15:24:00
Team member for Woodchurch Driving Group RDA
Team member helping with driving sessions and general yard duties
for Woodchurch Driving Group RDA
Helping with grooming and harnessing up the ponies, preparing the carriage and loading and securing clients in wheelchairs. General yard duties, cleaning and sanitising carriages and tack. Participating in a rota for mucking out and poo picking the fields. Participating in fund raising events and shows. All these duties are done as a team and training is given.
Volunteers need to be reasonably fit and have their own transport to get to the yard.
Interested? Contact Jean Boorman on 01233 770558 - email: j.boorman007@btinternet.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 11/08/2021 16:45:00
Bereavement Volunteer
Bereavement Volunteers needed for CHUMS Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing Service
CHUMS are looking for individuals, who would like to give their time as a support to Children & Young People across the region. Volunteers support our delivery of bereavement groups for Parents/Carers and Children and Young People up to the age of 25.
Our Bereavement Volunteers will undergo training delivered by our team. We support our Volunteers by offering a regular ongoing training programme and a bi-monthly communications meeting.
This service supports the Children & Young People in Kent who have experienced bereavement.
The Volunteer would need to enjoy Children’s company and have a genuine concern for the emotional wellbeing of the Child.
- We welcome everyone as a Volunteer and Disabled access will always be considered.
All our Volunteers will undertake training in Safeguarding & Manual Handling.
Volunteers can claim for their travel expenses.
All Volunteers must be over 18 but no upper age limit.
We offer ongoing training & support
Our service is currently well established in Bedfordshire, but new to Kent. Therefore, meetings will be held in locations suitable for the Volunteers. Volunteers must be able to travel to support groups in other parts of the County.
Interested? Contact Jo Tredgett on 07731 133387 - email: Jo.tredgett@chums.uk.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 03/08/2021 13:26:00
Helper in artistic day centre for adults
Helping out with preparing drinks, washing up and general art , craft or sewing skills are great. Even just a friendly chat with some of our students is greatly appreciated. You will be part of our friendly, small team and work alongside adults with learning difficulties, specific needs and mental health problems. You will receive guidance on how to communicate with the students, health and safety, data protection and general day to day running of the day centre. Our ethos is simply for the students to reach new goals within a relaxing and fun environment.
Please contact Helga at Helga.aartvark@gmail.com or 07735448140
Published by Laura Salyers on 02/08/2021 10:57:00
Volunteer Trustee for MADM
Trustee
for MADM
As a Trustee, you will
• Have a say in shaping the strategic direction of the charity.
• Work closely with the Founder and Management Team, supporting and encouraging for growth and direction.
• Ensure sufficient steps are taken in making the right decisions for the charity’s values.
• Ensure that the charity is compliant with all relevant laws and governances.
• Manage risk to protect the charity’s assets, staff/volunteers, and beneficiaries. This includes preserving our reputation of honour and integrity.
• Most of all, have a compassionate heart, love Jesus, and believe in the mission of MADM
Interested? Contact Amanda Sidwell on 01622 687414 - email: madmstone@gmail.com
Published by Lisa McLaren on 23/07/2021 16:12:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 23/07/2021 16:15:00
Benefit Support Officer
Volunteer - Benefit Support Officer for CROP (Citizens Rights for Older People)
CROP's aim is to ensure every older person asking for our help can be supported by a visiting advocate. This varied role includes the following; - Understanding and applying for benefits - Appeals; challenging decisions. - Problems with care/housing - Financial matters - utility bills/pension issues. You don't need to be an expert! You will be part of a team and fully supported. All volunteers undergo an Enhanced DBS. The days and hours are flexible. To provide training and support, we do ask for a minimum commitment of 1 case weekly/bi-weekly. We pay out of pocket expenses including 0.40p per mile.
Interested? Contact Laura Brooker on 01622851200 - email: laura@cropkent.org.uk
Published by Lisa McLaren on 23/07/2021 12:39:00
Home-Visiting Volunteer
Home-Start is a charity which supports families with young children. These families can be struggling for a number of reasons such as isolation, disability, multiple births and bereavement. Home-start’s volunteers work alongside families to give compassionate and confidential support, tailored to each family. This can include (but is not limited to) trips to the park, helping families access toddler groups, signposting to other services, help establishing routine and of course lots of PLAYING!
The volunteering would take place in the family's home for 2-3 hours per week.Please contact Talitha Peck on 07714 377998 or email on talitha@home-start-ashford.co.uk
For more info visit http://home-start-ashford.co.uk/
Published by Lisa McLaren on 19/07/2021 16:21:00
Volunteer for Macmillan Crossroads
Volunteer for Macmillan Crossroads
for Macmillan Crossroads Kent and Medway
Macmillan Crossroads Care Kent are recruiting volunteers in Ashford and the surrounding areas.
Our volunteers support people living with cancer and those that care for them. We offer our volunteers flexibility to fit around their commitments.
As a volunteer you could provide:
· Practical support such as light housework, gardening, transport to health appointments or
· Emotional support and companionship
Published by Lisa McLaren on 16/07/2021 10:50:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 16/07/2021 12:54:00
Volunteer Driver - Beaver Community Trust
Volunteer Driver
for Beaver Community Trust
To pick up donation of food from Tesco's Mace Lane, On Monday and Thursday mornings between 07:00 - 10:00 , Griffin and Brand Leacon Road on a Tuesday between 08:00 and 10:00 and Waitrose donations (not every week) 09:00 -10:00 and deliver back to Lightbites at The Willow Centre TN23 4EY
4 collections taking no more than 30 minutes at a time.
Interested? Contact Sheila Tong on 03000 412950 - email: sheila.tong@kent.gov.uk
Published by Lisa McLaren on 05/07/2021 16:36:00
Trustees Wanted - Beaver Community Trust
Beaver Community Trust are recruiting several voluntary positions to join our Board of Trustees. They are a community charity with a vision of helping children to reach their full potential and school readiness through our nursery. They are looking for trustees with skills in one or more of the following areas:
Deadline for applications: 3rd September 2021. For more info contact Sheila Tong sheila.tong@kent.gov.uk
Published by Beth Peal on 02/07/2021 12:20:00
Event Steward/marshal
Event Steward / Marshal
for The Mason Mile
We're looking for volunteer stewards for our family fun event to help people on the day, marshal part of a 1 mile course and run fun game stalls.
This is taking place at Mote Park on Sunday 25th July2021, 11am-2pm.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 25/06/2021 11:16:00
Various volunteer roles with Fareshare
Fareshare Kent are currently looking for new people to volunteer with them. It can be a really rewarding experience getting to know other people, gaining skills and supporting a really worthwhile organisation.
The role includes being part of a warehouse team, sorting through the surplus food deliveries that come into the depot and then picking and packing orders to deliver on our vans to charities all over the county. They also have admin, driver and porter roles too!
If you have anyone you think would be interested, please email admin@faresharekent.org.uk or call 01233 500477.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 17/06/2021 15:20:00
Retail volunteer required for Pilgrims Hospice
The Pilgrims Hospice shops in the town centre (Ashford General and Ashford Furniture) are in great need of volunteers to help.
There is a need for support on the "shop floor" as well as help in sorting through donations and pricing.
Availability for volunteers will be every Tuesday, Thursday or Friday morning.
Can you help? Would you like to know more?
Either pop along to the shop, call Peter Jacobs on 01233 646025 or contact Victoria Morgan, Ashford General Manager, on victoria.morgan@pilgrimshospices.org
Published by Lisa McLaren on 10/06/2021 15:45:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 10/06/2021 15:47:00
Hospices of Hope Volunteers Needed
Hospices of Hope in Ashford are looking for volunteers for their store. The store is busy and the volunteering will be fun but physically demanding due to the amount of donations that are coming in now.
Training provided and volunteers ideally would be able to commit to at least 2 days a week on 4 hour shifts.
For more information contact Vicki Hodges – Store Manager 01233 637737
Published by Beth Peal on 02/06/2021 13:08:00
Tenterden Folk Festival need volunteers
Tenterden Folk Festival need volunteers - they are looking for more, experienced volunteer stewards and volunteers for Tenterden Folk Festival 2021 which runs from Thursday 30th September to Sunday 3rd October.
Duties could include helping with set up and break down, or stewarding on doors to events, stewarding the procession, working in the box office, stewarding the free events on the Recreation Ground including the craft fair marquee, free music stage, dance stage, etc. or generally helping over the weekend.
More information and a volunteers application form on our website at http://tenterdenfolkfestival.com/Volunteer-at-TFF/
Published by Beth Peal on 01/06/2021 08:29:00
Free Networking Event
Join Kent Community Foundation (KCF) for an online networking event for the Kent and Medway charitable sector: Recovery – how’s it going?
Hear from KCF on lessons learnt, three Strategic Recovery Fund grant recipients share their stories, find out more about Charity Mentors Kent & Medway, learn about funding opportunities and network with colleagues. Thursday 27 May 2021, 10am - 11.30am.
To book a place email admin@kentcf.org.uk.
Spaces still available.
Published by Beth Peal on 26/05/2021 09:31:00
Philip and Connie Philips Foundation
We are really pleased to have received funding from the Philip and Connie Phillips Foundation towards our Befriending Scheme.
Did you know that they have just launched their second grant round for health and wellbeing charities in Kent? The deadline is 21st June 2021.
This independent foundation was established to support charities in the county who demonstrate their impact on the health and wellbeing of their local community, with an emphasis on supporting elderly people who are isolated and vulnerable, and combating the effects of deprivation, such as food poverty and homelessness. Find out more
https://pcphillipsfoundation.org/
Published by Beth Peal on 26/05/2021 09:16:00
Volunteer needed for The Hope Tree
The Hope Tree Counselling and Consultancy Service CIC aims to be an effective support in school's settings and in the local community for children and young people.
They are looking for volunteers who can support them in their half term activity programme from 1-4 June 2021 and ongoing. The role will involve, creating art/craft activities, help set up equipment, organising games, serving lunch and generally engaging with the children and their families. If a car driver, to help with shopping for items when required. The June half term event they will be at the Repton Community Centre, Ashford, 10am-1pm
Travel expenses will be paid and lunch provided.
They are also looking for someone who can support them with some office admin (accounting/spreadsheets/help with funding applications) 1-2 days a week.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 21/05/2021 12:45:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 21/05/2021 13:20:00
Guided Community Walk for Beaver Ward on 26 June
Do you live, study or work in Beaver, South Ashford?
Are you 18 to 25 years old?
How can we make Beaver a place where young people can live
more healthily and feel safe?
Join us on Saturday 26 June
10.15am to 1.15pm
South Ashford Baptist Church, 24 Brookfield Road, Ashford,
TN23 4EY
Tell us about living in Beaver and your ideas for change
Explore how our environment can either help or harm our health
Join our community walk and review the neighbourhood using
C3’s specially designed CHESS™ app.
To find out more or take part please contact:
Alison Oates, Community Safety and Wellbeing Manager,
Ashford Borough Council
01233 330 225 csu@ashford.gov.uk
This project is run by Ashford Community Safety Partnership and
C3 Collaborating for Health.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 20/05/2021 11:56:00
Be a Plastic Free Hero!
Plastic Free Ashford is holding their AGM on Saturday, 5th June 2021, at 2.30 pm at Victoria Park by the water fountain.
The group is looking for new members to help them reach the Plastic Free accreditation and make connections with the community. The group is also looking to fulfil the secretary position, no previous experience necessary, but will need to be able to attend meetings and take notes and help organise meetings.
If you are passionate about the environment and wish to make a difference come and join Plastic Free Ashford.
Published by Lisa McLaren on 20/05/2021 09:21:00
Volunteering at the Volunteer Centre?
The core services, Transport and Befriending, have become core to supporting those more isolated in the borough of Ashford. Only possible through the generosity of our bank of outstanding volunteers.
Although our Volunteer Transport scheme has a solid bank of daily volunteers there is always the need for additional office support. Our different daily volunteers “buddy up” and the expectation, as we move back to “normality”, is that there will be a great need for the Transport service.
If you think this might interest you and/or would like to know more, drop a note to our central address…
contact@ashfordvc.org.uk or call 01233 665535. Our roles often develop as we engage with new community projects and volunteering here can provide stepping stones to other things.
Published by Lee Robinson on 12/05/2021 10:44:00
Activities at your Community Hub
Strengthening Minds, in partnership with Moat Foundation, are hosting a number of community hubs across the county with, specifically, locally at the Stanhope Hub.
The Hub at Stanhope is there to help, advise and listen to ideas on a Thursdays:-
* "Here to Help" - Thursdays between 12pm and 2pm
* "Coffee Mornings" - Thursdays: 9aqm - 11am
* "Youth Club at the Hub" - 4pm - 6pm (8's - 12's) and 6.30pm - 8.30pm (ages 12-16)
For more information, please contact: Annmarie Frenchum, Community Hubs & Partnerships Manager;
07838 137747
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/05/2021 12:10:00
Volunteers' Week, 1st -7th June 2021
Volunteers Week 2021 will focus on a different theme of volunteering to ensure we recognise the impact that different types of volunteering have played in communities across the UK in the last 12 months:
- Tues 1 June: Volunteers’ Week Launch – A Time To Say Thanks
This year has highlighted the vital role volunteers play across the UK and we want to make sure everyone is aware that this is a week to recognise their impact. - Wed 2 June: The Power of Youth – #iwill Campaign
Today will focus on the role of youth volunteering in the daily lives of individuals and communities, not only during the pandemic. - Thurs 3 June: Employer Supported & Skilled Volunteering
Many employers also support their staff to give back to their communities through volunteering and businesses provide vital support to the work of the voluntary sector. - Fri 4 June: Home Nation Priorities
This year, people across the UK have come together and volunteered to support communities during a challenging time. - Sat 5 June: Environment & Conservation
To coincide with World Environment Day, we are focusing on all the environmental volunteering that takes place every day. - Sun 6 June: The Big Lunch
What better way to celebrate the impact volunteers have in their communities than The Big Lunch! - Monday 7 June: Volunteers’ Week Close – A Time To Say Thanks
Share your pictures of how you have celebrated during the week!
Published by Lisa McLaren on 06/05/2021 12:49:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 07/05/2021 12:35:00
Village Hall treasurer & secretary needed
Biddenden Village Halls and Sports Committee (Registered Charity No. 302684) manages the village halls and assists with the management of the Bowls, Squash and Tennis Club facilities at the Gordon Jones Field – all well used and key to maintaining a vital and active community. Their website gives more details of our activities. www.biddendenvillagehalls.org
They are looking for two volunteers with accounting and administration skills to join our committee as the Secretary and Treasurer. Both positions will be members of their committee. The Secretary is responsible for the charity’s administration and the Treasurer responsible for the accounting functions of the charity.
Day to day running of the halls is overseen by the caretaker, so these roles can be fitted around other commitments (and holidays!) and take approximately 100 hours per year. The Committee meets four times a year and job profiles are available for both positions.
The secretary position is already vacant, and the current treasurer plans to stand down at our AGM in July 2021.
These positions are open to everyone. If you are new to the locality or recently retired and are looking for a way to get involved in parish life, this is an excellent opportunity. The position also looks great on CVs!
If you are interested, please contact Tom Lupton (Chair) on 01580 291658 or at info@biddendenvillagehalls.org
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/05/2021 10:01:00
FREE Zoom Volunteer course
Ashford Volunteer Centre are pleased to offer their FREE “Match your skills for volunteering” to those 19 and over, not working or low paid and see volunteering as a potential "next step" in their life journey.
The next course will be run Tuesday, 11 May 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm). At this stage the session will be run remotely (Zoom) to ensure everyone's safety .
With so many 'life-changes' Ashford Volunteer Centre (AVC) continues to see more prospective volunteers where self-esteem may have taken a knock, or simply need a life direction change, but who are potentially more ready for a route back through volunteering.
The core of the session plan is around locating individual "Genius" with more focus aimed at the “what’s out there” so we can focus more time on starting to match individuals to the most appropriate opportunities out there.
Interested? Then contact AVC on contact@ashfordvc.org.uk with name, address, contact number and date of birth.
Published by Lee Robinson on 27/04/2021 14:53:00
Cultural events volunteers
ShivaNova works with culturally diverse communities developing cultural and heritage based projects with them… including Nepalese, south Asian, Caribbean, Roma and Syrian communities in Kent.
Volunteering opportunities are for over 18’s interested in event management and organising cultural events. They are particularly looking for an assistant to help them with their events and festivals in Ashford and Tenterden as we continue to come out of lockdown. Event production training will be provided as part of these events.
Most events take place at weekends between May and June.
Interested? Want to find out more? Visit their website on www.equatorfestival.com
…or contact Priti Paintal, Director, on shivanova@aol.com or 07795 967533.
Published by Lee Robinson on 27/04/2021 09:00:00
We are recruiting - apply now!
We are recruiting for a full time Volunteer Services Co-ordinator (Connecting Volunteers) to join our team at Ashford Volunteer Centre.
More details can be found on the Jobs at Kent Website here
Published by Beth Peal on 26/04/2021 11:13:00
Help at Willesborough Windmill
Willesborough Windmill is one of the most iconic symbols of Ashford. Its upkeep is down to a loyal group of volunteers who need new people to help keep the windmill running as a visitor attraction.
Volunteers are welcome for a range of roles from the upkeep and running of this historic Ashford building, to run educational tours of the mill and community events in the field (visitor guide training provided); milling flour to helping with events, bbqs, cafe (food hygiene training also available).
Sound interesting or want to know some more? Then contact the team on Paw4@btinternet.com or 01233 733416
www.willesboroughwindmill.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/04/2021 11:10:00
Supporting those in need
Ashford Together (AT) has been set up to facilitate or run projects in partnership with the statutory sector, faith community (the Church), voluntary sector and local communities.
Their current programs are aimed at supporting those in temporary housing or housing needs, either with mentoring, the winter night shelter, or the MakerLife Programme with is an 8 week course supporting people into work or volunteer roles.
Their volunteers need to be over 18 years old and they give their volunteers training and support in their role, so no experience is needed. Volunteers need to have an interest in supporting rough sleepers or those with housing needs. Our participants are vulnerable and need a lot nurturing and support. There is a specific need for those experienced in food and life skills.
Volunteers would need to be able to commit to 3hours every other week.
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/04/2021 11:53:00
Walk this Way - Pedometer Challenge:
Annmarie Frenchum, from Strengthening Minds has highlighted us to a unique opportunity for those aged 55+ to get out walking. So...if this sounds interesting (or you know someone for who it might!) read on or pass on!
The Walk This Way: Pedometer Challenge is being delivered in collaboration with Friendly Faces of Kent. The programme is available to all people aged 55+.
The project is aimed at encouraging increased daily steps - after a time when we have not been able to easily - increasingly daily steps by 30% over a 6-week period! Participants will receive a pedometer, a record Book & Pen and a goodie bag on completion.
They currently have 10 remaining spaces, but no takers from the Ashford area as yet!! The aim is to start the project in May 2021.
Interested? Contact Annmarie on annmariefrenchum@strengtheningminds.co.uk or 07838 137747.
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/04/2021 08:46:00
Befrienders wanted...
Belive is a befriending service for individuals with a mild to moderate learning disability aged 18 plus, who are socially isolated and lonely in Kent and Medway.
As a result of the current climate, their face-to-face befriending service has shifted to social media, telephone, Zoom and WhatsApp video, and there is currently a waiting list for people wanting a befriender. Belive is therefore looking for more volunteers, particularly male volunteers, and will provide training and expenses.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 07/04/2021 16:04:00
Volunteering for a Better You course
Ashford Volunteer Centre are pleased to offer another of their FREE Volunteer Skills courses - Volunteering for a Better You". The part day session is open to those 19 and over, not working or low paid and see volunteering as a potential "next step" in their life journey.
The next course will be run Tuesday, 22 June 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm). At this stage the session will be run remotely (Zoom) to ensure everyone's safety but may change nearer the date.
“Volunteering for a better you” is focused on those unsure as readiness for volunteering.
The session focuses on understanding and believing the skills you have (and may not realise) to move forward.
The session focuses a little more time looking at improving self-esteem by looking at your lost, hidden, forgotten, untapped skills. The course will still allow time to see what volunteering is out there!!
Interested? Then contact AVC on contact@ashfordvc.org.uk with name, address, contact number and date of birth.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/04/2021 08:20:00
Match your Skills for Volunteering
Ashford Volunteer Centre are pleased to offer their FREE “Match your skills for volunteering” to those 19 and over, not working or low paid and see volunteering as a potential "next step" in their life journey.
The next course will be run Tuesday, 11 May 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm). At this stage the session will be run remotely (Zoom) to ensure everyone's safety .
With so many 'life-changes' Ashford Volunteer Centre (AVC) continues to see more prospective volunteers where self-esteem may have taken a knock, or simply need a life direction change, but who are potentially more ready for a route back through volunteering.
The core of the session plan is around locating individual "Genius" with more focus aimed at the “what’s out there” so we can focus more time on starting to match individuals to the most appropriate opportunities out there.
Interested? Then contact AVC on contact@ashfordvc.org.uk with name, address, contact number and date of birth.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/04/2021 08:12:00
Dealing with Anxiety workshop (young people)
Diversity House are offering a "Dealing with Anxiety Workshop (for young people) on April 10 2021.
The training is from 2.30pm - 4.30pm.
Diversity House select their trainers for their interpersonal skills as well as their training ability - creating a safe and enabling environment.
The course aim is to help young people recognise the symptoms of anxiety, what it is and explore practical ways of dealing with it.
The session will also help understand positive & negative thoughts and beliefs that trigger anxiety.
Meeting ID: 734 2219 5034
Passcode: p57tV6
For more information contact Diversity House on 01795420455 or Email - info@diversityhouse.org.uk
www.diversityhouse.org.uk or www.swewp.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/04/2021 14:07:00
Become a Family Camping Volunteer!
Outdoor Families programme is a year-round programme, connecting families from across London with nature, gradually increasing their range of experiences – from weekend walks exploring local green spaces, through to a weekend camp in the countryside.
They are now looking for volunteers to support our family camping trips this year. They have planned a covid-secure Volunteer Weekend camping trip on 24-25 April for training and preparation. They will then host 2 or 3 camping trips throughout the summer. All camping trips will be at Green Farm Kent (near Ashford), in partnership with the Pearce Coggan Foundation.
The first Outdoor Family camping trip is scheduled for 31 May – 4 June, during the May half-term school holidays. They will also require support setting up camp and packing down the camp on the weekends before and after the camping trip (29/30 May & 5/6 June).
Ideally, you will be available to join the Volunteer Weekend in April and some or all of the days between 29 May and 6 June. If you are not available for these dates, but would like to volunteer, do get in touch as there will be more opportunities in the future!
If you would like to apply to volunteer with this initiative, please fill in this form. or to find out more, email beth@outdoorpeople.org.uk.
If you would like a more local perspective of Pearce Coggan Foundation and their work at Shadoxhurst, please contact Grant at grant@pearcecoggan.org - 07385 876511
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/04/2021 11:48:00
Theatre group Trustees needed
1927 Theatre is based in Margate but has a national presence. They are a small, independent artist-led theatre company creating and presenting live performance. They are committed to identifying and supporting the next generation of theatre makers, and providing high quality learning and engagement projects.
http://www.19-27.co.uk
1927 Theatre are looking for up to 3 new Trustees to join their Board. All new Trustees must be aged 18+. Trustees will be required to attend 4 x Board Meetings in either Kent or London, per year. Trustees will also be asked to support sub-groups and to attend events, conferences or to support 1927 at community events.
They are particularly keen to hear from individuals who: Have skills, experience or expertise in; • Developing diversity strategies and inclusive policy and practice within an organisational setting • Education, Learning & Participation • Fundraising • Legal practice • Have experience / knowledge of the local community/ies in Margate, Thanet and Kent.
Want to know more? Contact Natalie on 07939 834185 or natalie@19-27.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/03/2021 11:14:00
FREE on-line support training
Kent and Medway Action Learning Sets are available to anyone between the ages of 18-28 who is feeling anxious, worried or alone due to Covid-19?
Over four FREE sessions: They’ll listen & help you find your own solutions. You'll virtually speak to others in a similar situation Learning new skills and techniques to problem solve ONLINE!
For direct details contact info@thekiwitribe.co.uk or for a “local” overview contact Annmarie Frenchum, Strengthening Minds on:-annmariefrenchum@strengtheningminds.co.uk
07838 137747
The sessions are delivered by Kiwi Communities CIC. The principles underpinning an Action Learning Set are founded on the idea of a person presenting a problem, issue or opportunity to a small group of peers.
Through a series of prompts, open questions and clarifications, participants will listen to the issue, then build a greater understanding of the challenges within the presented concern. This allows the person to see the issue in a different light – to understand a new perspective - and to form a set of actions to take forward to tackle the issue.
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/03/2021 10:54:00
Holiday Club volunteers needed
Kiddie Kapers, at the Willow Centre, are looking for volunteers who can support their Holiday Club which is running for four days over Easter 8th, 9th 12th and 13th April, four hours a day. 9am-1pm.
Children will be 5-8 years of age.
Kiddie Kapers are looking for volunteers who can support qualified staff members in delivering holiday club activities such as cooking, gardening, theme days, music time and story time. Volunteers will need to be confidence and willing to join in, with all activities, during these sessions.
Volunteers will support staff throughout the session including snack time and lunch time.
The Holiday Club needs happy, motivated volunteers who will engage with children and staff, working together to deliver a successful Holiday club at Kiddie Kapers. Volunteers will be required to help from 9am-13:15 pm and will be invited to have lunch in the café with the children on days dinner is provided.
This vacancy requires DBS which will be paid for by the Beaver Community Trust Ltd
If provision goes well they hope to run this again in the summer holidays and for one week in the October half term. Interested? For more information or to request an application form please contact Sheila Tong on 03000 412950 or email sheila.tong@kent.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/03/2021 09:16:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 30/03/2021 10:51:00
National Autism Week
This week is World Autism Awareness Week (29 March - 4 April 2021).
The event is supported and promoted by the National Autistic Society. For more information go to their website link - https://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/raise-money/world-autism-awareness-week
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/03/2021 09:00:00
RSPCA volunteers needed
The RSPCA Kent Ashford, Tenterden & District Branch is dedicated to helping every kind of animal, domestic or wild, that may be in danger. In April 2006 a wonderful new Cat Re-homing Centre was completed and since then they have managed to re-home literally thousands of cats thanks to the dedicated hard work of their staff and volunteers.
The local charity currently require volunteers for their retail shop to include sorting donations, steaming clothes, helping customers, window displays and cash handling.
Within the cattery they also need volunteers to help with cleaning the cattery. A love of animals might be a necessity but, importantly, applicants must be calm around animals.
For more information about the local service - www.rspca-ashforddistrict.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 23/03/2021 08:45:00
Modified by Lisa McLaren on 10/05/2021 10:58:00
5 Steps to Co-Parenting
The 5 Steps to Co-Parenting Success! Workshop helps reduce post-separation family conflict. More dates have been added.
Workshops are 3 hours and cover the 5 key areas towards building a sustainable long-term framework that is child-centric. The workshop is gender-neutral and suitable for all separated parents
The Co-parenting Programme is an early-intervention, preventative measure to improve the lives of the children of separated parents and to reduce parental conflict in post-separation relationships.
Workshops are FREE to participants in Ashford and Canterbury districts. Remaining Dates:
Friday 19 March 2 pm - 5 pm
Wednesday 24 March 2 pm - 5 pm
Wednesday 14 April 6 pm - 9 pm - Evening Session as requested!
Friday 16 April 2 pm - 5 pm
Wednesday 28 April 6 pm - 9 pm - Evening Session as requested!
Friday 30 April 2 pm - 5 pm
More information: https://coparenting.org.uk/workshop/
Attendee criteria - https://coparenting.org.uk/criteria/
Reserve free spaces here - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/co-parenting-programme-tickets-131465174877
Any queries contact Adam Colthorpe, Director of Mentoring at Dads Unlimited on 01233 680151 or through...
facebook.com/dadsunltd
twitter.com/dadsunltd
www.dadsunltd.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/03/2021 16:48:00
Volunteer with the Sea Cadets
Why volunteer with the Sea Cadet?
Volunteering with Medway Victory Sea Cadets can:-
Improve your knowledge; work with other similarly minded volunteers; provide a sense of fulfilment whilst watching cadets enjoy and achieve.
Whilst volunteering qualifications ca be gained in:-
* RYA Sailing
* British canoeing
* Expedition Leaders
* Offshore sailing and power
* City & Guilds Professional Recognition Awards in Leadership and Management Levels 4-7 Bandmaster (RMSM approved)
The Medway Victory Sea Cadets is a new unit at a School in Medway. One night per week for a couple of hours.
Interested? Call Sub Lt Eaton on 07876 031436
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/03/2021 16:42:00
Step Forward - pre-employment support
Step Forward is a programme offering pre-employment support for young people (16+) with:-
* Writing a cv
* Interview skills
* Help with finding an Apprenticeship
* Using Social Media to look for Employment
Microsoft Teams sessions will be run every 3rd Thursday of the month.
This programme supported by Moat Foundation; Strengthening Minds and the Department for Work & Pensions.
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/03/2021 16:27:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 16/03/2021 16:28:00
Find a Voice need a volunteer gardener
Ashford charity, "Find a Voice" support people of all ages who have severe speech, language and communication needs by providing access to life enhancing advice, equipment and training. This support can be because of autism, cerebral palsy or through illness, cancer, strokes and Covid!
The site needs a volunteer at its base in Beaver Lane, Ashford that may like to help in the garden once a week or once a fortnight. Is this something that might interest you?
Contact Angela Reynolds, General Manager on admin@findavoice.org.uk or on 01233 640043. What a way to make a positive contribution to your community!!
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/03/2021 16:05:00
New dates for Homestart course
Home-start Ashford have confirmed revised dates and times for their respected next Volunteer Preparation course.
Monday 10 May - welcome to the course
Monday 17 May - role of a volunteer
Monday 24 May - values & attitudes / Listening & Communication
Monday 31 May - Break for half-term
Monday 7 June - Safeguarding / Confidentiality A
Monday 14 June - Confidentiality B / Meeting the Needs of Children
Monday 21 June - Supporting parents
Monday 28 June - Bringing the Course to a Close
The subsequent and next course will likely e in mid-September 2021.
If you would like to know more about the Home-Start course and their work contact Talitha Peck,
Family & Volunteer Coordinator (Home-Start Ashford & District)
T: 01233 647209
M: 07714377998
E: talitha@home-start-ashford.co.uk
W: www.home-start-ashford.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 08/03/2021 11:58:00
Scouts - Grants application volunteer
An opportunity has arisen to support the Kent Scout movement.
The role is to support one of the county district commissioners to apply for grants to help scout groups. Although based ‘out of district” this is fundamentally an admin position that could be conducted remotely.
Interested and have some experience in grant applications?
Then please contact Angela Palmer on email address - dc@sittingbournescouts.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/03/2021 16:18:00
Find a Voice Volunteer Gardener
"Find a Voice” is a great local charity supporting people of all ages who have severe speech, language and communication needs by providing access to life enhancing advice, equipment and training.
The charity is looking for a volunteer who may be able to spare an hour or two, once a week/fortnight, to keep their garden in order
Might this interest you? Contact Angela Reynolds at admin@findavoice.org.uk or 01233 640443
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/03/2021 15:18:00
Green Eyes of Ecology volunteers needed
The Green Eyes of Ecology Green Eyes of Ecology (Geeco) is a Social Enterprise that advocates positive environmental change. We create literary scripts to make a healthier planet. They are currently recruiting for volunteers. If this is your passion and area of interest please have a look at the link below form role specifications.
Green Eyes Of Ecology Volunteer Opportunities - VolunteerMatch.
It is all virtual but would welcome some local Ashfordians on board.
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/03/2021 13:09:00
Find A Voice Library volunteers
“Find a Voice” is a great local charity supporting people of all ages who have severe speech, language and communication needs by providing access to life enhancing advice, equipment and training.
The charity is looking for a friendly, reliable team player to support their Outreach Library.
The library offers wide resources for people who experience difficulties in communication. The equipment includes sensory toys, Makaton Resources, Switch adapted and communication aids. The charity needs assistance with - Sanitising and checking the equipment when it is returned and before it is sent to service users. Safely package and organise couriers to deliver and collect equipment. Occasional liaising with service users to discuss their requirements/stock availability. Ensuring stock of packaging supplies and materials. Update of database.
Might this interest you? Contact Angela Reynolds at admin@findavoice.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/03/2021 13:05:00
In loving memory - Sue Sawyer
Our wonderful friend and former Manager of Ashford Volunteer Centre sadly passed away this month. The Volunteer Centre wouldn't be where it is today without Sue and her passion for volunteering and bringing people together.
We send all our love and best wishes to Sue's family at this difficult time.
A celebration of Sue's life will be held later in the year.
Sue's memorial service is taking place on Friday 26th February 2021, starting at 4.40pm, and is being webcast for people who wish to attend. It can be accessed during the time of the memorial by using the following details:
https://www.obitus.com/
username Xazo0432 password 141837
Published by Beth Peal on 25/02/2021 14:45:00
Modified by Lindsay Wratten on 25/02/2021 14:56:00
Willesborough volunteers needed
Ashford Borough Councillor, Cllr Liz Wright, is part of a group supporting bringing the Women's Institute Hall back into community use.
The aim is to do this as soon as possible after lockdown finishes and is safe to do so.
Any support appreciated but would be ideal for those living in the Willesborough area (preferably Hythe Road, Church Road. Osborne Road, Highfield Road, Osborne Road, current DBS even better!).
They would like to "keep it local" as looking for key-holder/caretaker duties, opening up the hall, keeping an eye, security, tea-making etc.
Interested or want to know a little more? Contact Liz on Liz.Wright@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 22/02/2021 08:32:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 22/02/2021 08:34:00
Last for FREE Stanhope Hub meals
Today (Wednesday, 17th) is the last day of the Fit & fed / Free School Meals at the Stanhope (Ashford) hub.
They have plenty of food to give out at both hubs and online boxing sessions with Olympia Boxing.
Annmarie Frenchum: Strengthening Minds:
Community Hubs and Partnerships Manager
annmariefrenchum@strengtheningminds.co.uk
07838 137747
www.strengtheningminds.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/02/2021 10:01:00
Victoria Park Youth Council
The next two meetings of the VPYC Victoria Park Youth Council are being held online on Friday 26th of February and Friday 26th of March.
Young people are encouraged to join the Victoria Park Youth Council to have their say on the Victoria Park Project, a heritage lottery funded project working to redevelop and restore Victoria Park in Ashford. Anyone aged 12-25 is invited to get involved, particularly those with an interest in social media, art, play, fitness, and vehicles such as scooters, skateboards, roller skates and bikes. It’s a great opportunity for young people to build experience for their CV, with opportunities to develop skills in communication, decision making, working with others and in the community. It could also help with awards programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Meetings are held monthly, and young people are welcome to join VPYC at any point during the Victoria Park Project.
If you know any young people that might be interested in this opportunity, please contact Nicola (Priest).
Nicola Priest
Youth Involvement Co-ordinator
Victoria Park and Watercress Fields
Ashford Borough Council
07920 267239 / nicola.priest@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/02/2021 08:15:00
Volunteer Centre Timebank Yoga!
Want to see Ashford Volunteer Centres Timebank scheme "up close and personal?"
ASHFORD YOGA - Invite you to 6 Gentle Yoga sessions via zoom
Friday 5th March 2021 – 9.30 - 10am
Lorna from Ashford Yoga will be hosting “Gentle Yoga” every Friday starting on Friday 5th March for six weeks. Focus will be on being mindful and in the present, fully focused on gentle movement on the mat to prepare you for the day ahead.
Registration is via Eventbrite. The link below will take you to the Ashford Volunteer Centre events page where you can register for each yoga session listed. We will then send you a Zoom link closer to the event.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
From the Time4Ashford Team
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/02/2021 14:45:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 15/02/2021 14:49:00
MakerLife programme. Volunteers needed
The MakerLife programme have launch a new project and are looking for at least 15 committed volunteers to join their team.
Ashford Together are a team committed to providing a non-judgmental, safe environment for the mutual development of skills for both our participants and their volunteers.
They are looking for volunteers who are passionate about, mental wellbeing, and employment, to help run their life, work and skills program launching early March 2021.
What they offer their volunteers:
Training
Ongoing Support
Team work
Mentoring skills
Communication & Listening skills
Induction Training will be given on the week commencing 22nd February
What we need from our volunteers:
Over 18years old
Live locally and able to get to venue, Bright City Church, Bank Street, Ashford
References
Reading and writing skills
Basic computer skills
Communication skills
3 hours per week commitment
If you are interested, please complete this google form... https://forms.gle/V3VLGHWbtgqHnRdu7
...and then they will be in touch to let you know the next steps.
If you have any queries or questions, please email Verity at verity@ashfordtogether.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/02/2021 12:38:00
Kent Equality Cohesion Vaccine survey
Kent Equality Cohesion Council Covid Vaccine survey - 1 minute
With the vaccine rollout now becoming nationwide we are conducting a survey to gauge the public perception towards the vaccine. We believe this work to be vital especially since reports of minority communities refusing the jab have become known.
The survey itself will only take 1 minute to complete and we would greatly appreciate it if you could share widely amongst your contacts. Please be mindful that if you take the survey before you share, the link may not work for others. So please either forward on before you complete or copy and paste the URL from the survey itself and send on.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/XLLBHNB
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/02/2021 15:19:00
FREE training
First Voice – answering the phone differently
This training has been adapted from Relate’s two-day course and has been designed to give confidence and competence to anyone answering client calls. Among the topics covered will be:
* Telephone responding skills – what are they and how can they be used to help people achieve the ‘feel good factor’ at the end of a call
* Managing difficult scenarios – gain the knowledge and skills to help with such things as asking for payment, closing the conversation, delivering difficult messages and overcoming objections
* Managing different enquiries – hoaxes, emotional calls, complaints and other practice issues
The course will span a four-week period, with a two-hour session each week (Thursdays 11am-1pm). You will need to attend all sessions and only one place is permitted for each organisation. We expect this training to prove very popular and as it is limited to just 12 to ensure effective learning, places will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dates: February 18 and 25, March 4 and 11
If you would like to book, please respond to Lindsay.Wratten@ashfordvc.org.uk with the full name of the participant, their job/volunteer role and the organisation.
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/02/2021 13:26:00
Befriend people with a learning disability
Belive is a befriending service for individuals with a mild-moderate learning disability/difficulty aged 18 plus, who are socially isolated and lonely.
Believe has supported this vulnerable client group in Medway through passion, drive and understanding based on personal experiences.
This service is now available in other parts of the county. As a result of the current climate the face-to-face service has shifted to social media, telephone, zoom, WhatsApp video etc…the charity has people waiting for a volunteer and is particularly looking for male volunteers (although would be happy to connect with anyone interested).
If you want to know more about the service and/or might be able to help please contact Theresa on belivemedway@outlook.com or 07977 696658. Information can also be found on website address is: www.belive.com.
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/02/2021 11:25:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 09/02/2021 11:56:00
Volunteering for a Better You course
Ashford Volunteer Centre have brought back their successful (& FREE) volunteering skills courses back in 2021. To make them even more exciting they will be run via "Zoom". Don't worry we will help as it has been a learning curve for us too!!
“Volunteering for a better you”
Tuesday, February 24, 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm) Focused on those less volunteering ready and through more focus on understanding and believing your skills to move forward. Time and balance will be aimed at locating lost, hidden skills. Time will still be allowed toward what volunteering is out there.
If anyone is interested in attending please pass on name, address, telephone number, email and date of birth to contact@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/02/2021 15:47:00
Job opportunity - project consultant
The concept of Wye Caring for Wye was one of the very first objectives identified in the setting up of Our Place Wye CIC in 2015. Public consultation at the time revealed dissatisfaction with social care provision, and the management committee has since been monitoring small-scale social care projects to see if something similar would work in Wye and neighbouring villages.
OPW have now been funded by Power to Change to carry out a feasibility study into such a project. To carry out this work they are recruiting a Project Consultant to research and advise on possible management structure, fees and levels of pay for care providers.
They are looking to commission a management consultant who is familiar with alternative business models – community benefit companies and cooperatives for example. The individual will assess data compiled by the Project Researcher to draw up a business plan. The individual is likely to have broad experience of working with community businesses, they will be self-employed and will be used to managing their own time. The work is estimated to be two days a week over 18 weeks between March and August 2021, at £200 a day. However, there is a need to be flexible within these guidelines. It’s likely that work will coalesce around the beginning and end of the project. Total budget for this role: £7000.
For a full role description email admin@ourplacewye.org.uk or call 01233 812866.
Closing date: 5pm on Thursday, February 25.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 01/02/2021 09:57:00
Victoria Park Youth Council
The second meeting of the VPYC Victoria Park Youth Council is being held online this Friday (22nd). 6pm to 7pm.
Young people are encouraged to join the Victoria Park Youth Council to have their say on the Victoria Park Project, a heritage lottery funded project working to redevelop and restore Victoria Park in Ashford. Anyone aged 12-25 is invited to get involved, particularly those with an interest in social media, art, play, fitness, and vehicles such as scooters, skateboards, roller skates and bikes. It’s a great opportunity for young people to build experience for their CV, with opportunities to develop skills in communication, decision making, working with others and in the community. It could also help with awards programmes such as Duke of Edinburgh Award. Meetings are held monthly, and young people are welcome to join VPYC at any point during the Victoria Park Project. For more information about VPYC please click on the link here.
If you know any young people that might be interested in this opportunity, or are interested yourself, please contact Nicola Priest on 07920 267239 or nicola.priest@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/01/2021 08:59:00
FareShare (Foodbank) in need of support
FareShare is a national charity supporting communities to relieve food poverty. FareShare is at the centre of two of the most urgent issues that face the UK: Food poverty and food waste.
The charity addresses these issues in 3 ways:-
• Providing quality food – surplus ‘fit for purpose’ product from the food and drink industry – to organisations working with disadvantaged people in the community
• Providing training and education around the essential life skills of safe food preparation and warehouse employability training through FareShare’s Skills & Training programme
• Promoting the message that ‘No Good Food Should Be Wasted’
The local Ashford branch is in need of drivers and porters, and also warehouse assistants. If you might be interested in helping contact Emma White on 01233500477 or emmawhite@faresharekent.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 18/01/2021 08:20:00
Homelessness support contact point
Kent Homeless Connect helps people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
We are a network of specialist services that prevents vulnerable people from losing their homes and provides a rapid response to re-house people if they have already become homeless.
We use an integrated approach to help people who need additional support to avoid or recover from homelessness.
We help people to be healthy, find a stable home, or manage their tenancy or their finances so that they can move away from homelessness for good.
Kent Homeless Connect is delivered by Porchlight and Look Ahead on behalf of Kent County Council.
There will be a single point of access for Kent Homeless Connect.
Our dedicated team can be contacted on 0800 567 7699.
Published by Lee Robinson on 18/01/2021 08:06:00
NHS Volunteer Responders still needed
With the health service working hard to meet the combined challenge of winter pressures and the second wave of coronavirus (COVID-19), the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme will continue until at least March 2021.
The roles available are:
- Steward Volunteer (COVID-19 vaccinations): Guide people on site to make sure the vaccination process runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
- Community Response Volunteer: Collect and deliver shopping, medication or other essential supplies for someone who is self-isolating.
- Community Response Plus Volunteer: Collect and deliver shopping, medication or other essential supplies for patients with cognitive impairments and/or significant vulnerabilities.
- Patient Transport Volunteer: Provide transport to patients who are medically fit for discharge or transport patients to medical appointments.
- NHS Transport Volunteer: transport equipment, supplies and/or medication between NHS services and sites. This may also involve assisting pharmacies with medication delivery.
- Check In and Chat Volunteer: Provide short term telephone support for people who are at risk of loneliness as a consequence of self-isolation.
- Check In and Chat Plus Volunteer: Provide a regular check-in by telephone support to the same person for a duration of 10 weeks, with 3 calls taking place each week.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 11/01/2021 10:29:00
can you cook some meals?
Can you help with a little cooking? Ashford Vineyard Church have just announced a project whereby a choice of meals are provided for busy emergency staff at the William Harvey Hospital.
Have a listen in and contact the team at compassion@ashfordvineyard.org
https://youtu.be/1_eA4uH4DzY
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/01/2021 14:31:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 05/01/2021 14:32:00
Bright City Foodbank volunteers
Bright City Church, based at the Centrepiece in Bank Street, are a family of people from all over the world and from every walk of life.
The church works with the community with practical help for those in need and they are very active with numerous growing social action projects…including a Foodbank scheme.
With our ever-changing world, and shifting guidelines, the need for volunteer support is as relevant as ever – equally the church foodbank will lose volunteers as circumstances change.
Justin at Bright City would be very pleased to hear from anyone who might be able to help. The foodbank needs a Wednesday driver (mileage paid) as well as 3 volunteers for Mondays (1) and Friday (2). In all cases there is a fair amount of heavy(ish) lifting so please do bear that in mind.
If you feel you can help please contact Justin on 01233 667565 or Justin@brightcitychurchuk.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/01/2021 09:56:00
Vaccination Volunteers
St John Ambulance is currently working through the charity’s existing networks to sign up vaccination volunteers – they are not opening recruitment to members of the public more widely at this stage.
In the meantime, members of the public who are able to support their neighbours and the NHS through a number of roles – including food or medication deliveries, lifts to medical appointments or ‘check-in and chat’ phone calls – can do so through the NHS Volunteer Responder programme.
NHS Volunteer Responder will have further roles available supporting the COVID-19 vaccination efforts in the future.
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/01/2021 10:26:00
Be a volunteer mediator
It is a proven method to help people resolve neighbourhood, family and intergenerational conflict and disputes, thereby preventing situations from escalating and creating lasting damage to relationships. We also use mediation to help separated parents resolve disagreements around child access.
Ashford Mediation Service is now recruiting Volunteer Mediators
If you enjoy helping people and can listen to two sides of a dispute and be non-judgemental, we would like to talk to you about joining a training programme and becoming one of our volunteer mediators. We offer a FREE professional training course, no experience required.
Volunteer mediation is flexible to fit around your work and family life. Though most mediation is conducted virtually via the MS Teams video conferencing platform you will occasionally need your own transport for face-to-face meetings.
January dates are Mon 11th, Tues 12th & Thurs 14th; Mon 18th, Tues 19th & Wed 20th; with
role-play sessions on Mon 25th, Wed 27th & Thurs 28th.
February dates are Mon 1st, Tues 2nd & Wed 3rd; Mon 8th, Tues 9th & Wed 10th; with
role-play sessions on Mon 22nd, Tues 23rd & Wed 24th.
For the January course, applications are needed by Wednesday 6th January 2021:
for the February course by Wednesday 27th January 2021
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/12/2020 13:29:00
Support your Volunteers!!
One of Ashford Volunteer Centres AMAZING befrienders, Mirelle, has witnessed the benefit of our Befriending service first-hand and has offered to support the project in a mind-blowing (and painful) way.
On Thursday 24 December, Mirelle, partner and daughters will be completing a ridiculous amount of exercises to raise as much as they can for the Ashford Volunteer Centre, befriending service.
So, what are they doing? In the hope of earning some of your spare change they will be spending their Christmas Eve smashing out the exercises listed below.
They’ll be dressed in Christmas outfits too.
Charity Garden Exercise Extravaganza Activities: 30 minutes of wall sits
1000 crunches
100 cartwheels
500 press ups
100 tuck jumps
4000 punches
2000 squat kicks
1000 side kicks
250 pull ups
200 lunge jumps
100 dancer’s high kicks
Plus we all have to do one of Erin’s dance routines 50 times through!
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/xmas-exercise-extravaganza
Good luck Mirelle, Stewart, Jack & Erin
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/12/2020 14:57:00
Kooth - young peoples counselling
As we approach the Christmas and New Year period, it is worth that “Kooth” is free and available to 10 to 16 year olds in Kent right throughout the holiday period. If you're not aware of Kooth, it's a free online counselling and emotional well-being support service for children and young people. https://www.kooth.com/
Children/Young people can be signposted to Kooth or can sign up themselves to access free and safe online mental health and wellbeing support, so no referral is required.
The online counselling is provided by a professional team of qualified counsellors and emotional wellbeing practitioners. Alongside the counselling, there are other online tools.
Kooth is available 365 days a year to young people in Kent aged 10 to 16 (up to 17th birthday).
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/12/2020 14:38:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 17/12/2020 14:42:00
Home-Start Ashford Volunteer course 2021
Home-start Ashford have confirmed dates and times for their respected next Volunteer Preparation course.
Monday 22nd February
Monday 1st March
Monday 8th March
Monday 15th March
Monday 29th March
2 WEEK BREAK (for Easter Holidays)
Monday 19th April
Monday 26th April
Sessions will run from 10am to 2pm. They are currently hoping to run this course in person in a venue in Central Ashford, dependent on restrictions and risk assessment made nearer the time.
The subsequent and next course will be in mid-September 2021.
If you would like to know more about the Home-Start course and their work contact Talitha Peck,
Family & Volunteer Coordinator (Home-Start Ashford & District)
T: 01233 647209
M: 07714377998
E: talitha@home-start-ashford.co.uk
W: www.home-start-ashford.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/12/2020 14:34:00
“Volunteering for a better you” course
In agreement and partnership with Adult Education/Response Ashford Volunteer Centre have agreed to initiate the process of bringing our in-house volunteering skills sessions back in 2021 whilst taking the opportunity to review how we might make them even more relevant and impactful.
AVC will undertake all the current safety guidelines to ensure the smaller courses can be run safely at Berwick House...recognising that circumstances may change and we may be required to run the sessions differently and/or remotely.
“Volunteering for a better you” – Proposed 6 attendees maximum.
Tuesday, February 24, 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm) Focused on those less volunteering ready. Through more focus on understanding and believing your skills to move forward. Time and balance will be aimed at locating lost, hidden skills. Time will still be allowed toward what volunteering is out there.
If anyone is interested in attending please pass on name, address, telephone number, email and date of birth to contact@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/12/2020 15:24:00
“Match your skills for volunteering” course
In agreement and partnership with Adult Education/Response Ashford Volunteer Centre have agreed to initiate the process of bringing our in-house volunteering skills sessions back in 2021 whilst taking the opportunity to review how we might make them even more relevant and impactful.
We will undertake all the current safety guidelines to ensure the smaller courses can be run safely at Berwick House...recognising that circumstances may change and we may be required to run the sessions differently and/or remotely.
“Match your skills for volunteering” - Proposed 6 attendees maximum.
Tuesday, 26 January 2021 (9.30am - 3.00pm). Self-esteem taken a knock, or simply need a life direction changes but are potentially ready for a route back through volunteering? The core of the session plan will involve locating your individual "Genius" (what you are good at, what sets you apart) with focus aimed at the “what’s out there” so we can focus more time on matching to opportunities.
If anyone is interested in attending please pass on name, address, telephone number, email and date of birth to contact@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/12/2020 15:20:00
Cycle Route champions
Volunteer Community Route Champions:
Do you live in Ashford?
Are you active and enjoy practical stuff?
Our Community Route Champions monitor and maintain the everyday off-road cycling routes that are important for so many essential journeys such as getting to work, to school or the shops. Join us to make a real difference to everyday cycling and walking. From clearing overgrown vegetation to cleaning signs and reporting potholes you’ll be doing practical activities to keep these routes in good condition. Learn new skills as well as using your local knowledge and experience.
As part of Sustrans national Volunteer Programme you’ll receive training and support from your local Sustrans team and your fellow Champions.
Interested? Contact Helen Fisher: 07500 833 152 helen.fisher@sustrans.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/12/2020 13:21:00
KCC
Kent’s Strategy for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities 2021-2024
You've been invited to participate in the Kent’s Strategy for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities 2021-2024 consultation by the consultation manager, Lisa.
This consultation is open from 2 Dec 2020 at 09:00 to 4 Feb 2021 at 23:59.
Kent County Council (KCC) is currently consulting on our draft Strategy for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities 2021-2024.
This consultation closes at midnight on Thursday 4 February 2021. Please visit www.kent.gov.uk/sendstrategyconsultation to find out more and to participate in this consultation.
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/12/2020 11:25:00
Movement Facilitator volunteer
The Centre for Independent Living, Kent (Cilk), in partnership with Kent Sport, Sport England and the National Lottery are recruiting volunteers for their Vitality Hub.
The role is for a Movement Facilitator. You will be required to liaise with clients about their health and wellbeing.
You will also be required to help facilitate exercise sessions either face to face or remotely. Your role is to encourage daily movement, support exercise needs, build a professional friendship with clients so that they feel comfortable and confident asking questions about training programs, well-being, and fitness.
Responsibilities and Duties include assisting with and following exercise program; Demonstrating exercise and reminding how to do exercise safely whilst being Friendly, approachable, and with great communication skills
Preferable experience and skills including - Previous sports / fitness coaching; Volunteering experience
If interested or would like more information, contact enquiries@cilk.org.uk or call 01233 633187 / 07917670372
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/12/2020 15:51:00
Volunteer in your town park!!
The Victoria Park project is looking for volunteers to support the amazing work planned for the park.
The link to the roles can be found at:-
https://www.ashford.gov.uk/outdoor-spaces/parks-and-play-areas/parks/victoria-park/volunteering-at-victoria-park/
…or feel free to discuss this and other Victoria Park projects with Victoria Fannon, Volunteer and Community Engagement Officer on 07768 612786 or Victoria.fannon@ashford.gov.uk
Location– Victoria Park and Watercress Fields. The key roles, in short, are:-
• Volunteer Tour Guides, who open up the park to both existing park users and new audiences. This role is crucial in the current climate to keeping the park accessible to the community whether they are there in person or based at home.
• Volunteer Workshop Leaders offer to share their skills and creative ideas to the public both in person and on the Park webpages. The community around the park is wonderfully diverse and we are committed to sharing cultural, factual and creative experiences.
• Evaluation Volunteers help with the gathering of data, photographs or feedback during activities, events and at other designated times. This role is crucial to our ongoing evaluation of how successful the project continues to be.
Published by Lee Robinson on 27/11/2020 13:09:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 27/11/2020 13:10:00
Kent Association for the Blind support
Kent Association for the Blind supports sight impaired to live independent lives.
They have various volunteering roles but are specifically looking for befrienders for what is a unique and rewarding role.
They pay volunteer expenses and will require a DBS check for most roles, especially when the role will mean meeting our service users/clients who are vulnerable adults. Our volunteers can be of any adult age (over 18).
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/11/2020 16:49:00
Language volunteers needed
Kent Refugee Action Network (KRAN) is a charity that supports young refugees striving to live independent and successful lives in the community…providing help to young people who have arrived in the United Kingdom unaccompanied by an adult.
KRAN are looking for a volunteer who has experience with speech therapy or a 1:1 teaching assistant ESOL/TEFL background.
If interested contact Gwen Wilkinson on 07793 586299 or by email on gwen@kran.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/11/2020 16:02:00
Home-Start volunteers course February 2021
Home-Start Ashford volunteers support families with one-to-one home-visiting. Home-start work with families experiencing a range of challenges including:-
* poor mental or physical health
* postnatal depression/anxiety
* bereavement
* financial worries.
Jus 2-3 hours a week can make a huge difference to a parent and their children.
Home-Start will be running one of their amazing 7 session courses - starting in February 2021 (final date yet to be confirmed).
If you want to know more about their work and volunteer options...
email - volunteers@home-start-ashford.co.uk
www.home-start-ashford.co.uk
01233 647209
Published by Lee Robinson on 12/11/2020 11:16:00
Furniture needed
At this difficult time much of life still needs to go on. Many less fortunate need furniture for emergency housing at a time when charity furniture shops are closed under lockdown restrictions.
We have been made aware of another lady who requires urgent furniture - she requires bed, oven, chair, fridge.
If you know of anybody who can assist please contact Dan Ford at Ashford Borough Council
Dan Ford | Accommodation Officer | Ashford Borough Council
Tel: 01233 330872 | Mob: 07881 825484 | E-mail: dan.ford@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/11/2020 13:01:00
Family mentors needed
The Kent County Council Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC) are currently recruiting volunteers to offer mentoring to their service users
FDAC works with parents who are at risk of losing their children to local authority care or have already done so due to substance misuse. If families come into FDAC they are given intense support from a range of professionals such as social workers, senior practitioners, substance misuse specialist etc and they will attend court every 2 weeks to speak with the same judge about how things are going etc.
As part of this service they are recruiting mentors who either have experiences personally or through friends and family of substance misuse, trauma, domestic abuse etc and can support other in a non-judgemental way and can demonstrate the skills and qualities needed to be an effective mentor.
It can be a very challenging but rewarding role. FDAC provide ongoing support and training and will reimburse any out of pocket expenses too.
For more information contact Sue Fletcher, Parent Mentor Co-ordinator
Telephone: 07773098668
Email Susan.Fletcher2@kent.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/11/2020 08:48:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 10/11/2020 08:50:00
Be a reading volunteer
Coram Beanstalk are still operating and looking for, and accepting volunteers! Coram Beanstalk combines the volunteer ambitions of working with chuildren whilst helping them with their reading.
Volunteers are placed in a local primary school or nursery setting to help three or more children aged between 3-11. With your support, you'll help them improve their reading ability, confidence and learn to love reading.
The process to become a Coram Beanstalk reading helper has slightly changed - in terms of the commitment they ask for and that their training is delivered online via Zoom.
For more information - https://www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/register-now
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/11/2020 17:44:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 09/11/2020 17:49:00
FREE on-line training
Would you like to take part in some free training sessions to learn how to lead online groups?
SpeakUpCIC will be offering a variety of different training opportunities for our interested members to learn how to lead groups and make the most out of their experience using online groups.
We’ll be starting in November with our first training session:
HOW TO HOST A GROUP on
Tuesday 18th and Wednesday, 19th November at 10.30am over Zoom.
If you’re interested in taking part, or have ideas/suggestions for other sessions, get in touch with either David or Maggie
Email: david@speakupcic.co.uk /
Maggie@speakupcic.co.uk
Phone: 07907803031 /
07958242834
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/11/2020 14:21:00
Domestic Abuse Support
KIDAS Kent Integrated Domestic Abuse Service are delighted to announce that the Domestic Abuse: It’s Everybody’s Business event website is now live at www.daeverybodysbusiness.org.
Lockdown, social distancing and social restrictions heightens the risk for victims of abuse and makes access to vital support services even harder to reach.
Book your free places for
Domestic Abuse: It’s Everybody’s Business
25 November - 10 December 2020
16 days of FREE virtual events
www.daeverybodysbusiness.org
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:52:00
French-speaking Volunteers
A national charity, with a local base, need your support…if you are a English/French speaker!
A new family to Ashford, with very limited English language, are looking for some voluntary help to learn a little more English and help them integrate better with our community.
If you think you can help (or would like to know more information) then contact Jerry Fox on jerryfox@capuk.org
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:50:00
Befriending in Need
Theresa Hammond is the founder and chair of a charity called “Belive”.
Belive is a befriending service for individuals with a mild-moderate learning disability/difficulty aged 18 plus, who are socially isolated and lonely. Theresa has supported this vulnerable client group in Medway through her passion, drive and understanding based on personal experiences.
This service is now available in other parts of the county. As a result of the current climate the face-to-face service has shifted to social media, telephone, zoom, WhatsApp video etc…Theresa has two people waiting for a volunteer.
If you want to know more about the service and/or might be able to help please contact Theresa (copied) on belivemedway@outlook.com or 07977 696658. Information can also be found on their website.. www.belivemedway@outlook.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:46:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:47:00
Victoria Park Conservation volunteers
VICTORIA PARK CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS are looking for volunteers over 16 years old.
If you are looking to meet new people, get active, enjoy the outdoors and make a difference this might be for you.
There will be an introduction to the different kinds of habitat and wildlife that can be found in the parks. Talks and workshops will be given by professionals on some of the many different species of flora and fauna that can be found here.
Help manage and create space for nature to thrive and for people to enjoy. To find out more and sign up to be a volunteer contact: Diane Comley from the Kentish Stour Countryside Partnership Email: diane.comley@kent.gov.uk or victoria.fannon@ashford.gov.uk Telephone: 03000 410900 (leave a message if no answer)
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:43:00
Scout Group Leaders needed
The Ashford District Scout Commissioner, Nick O’Callaghan, is looking for a new Scout Group Leader to work with 6 – 18 year olds.
Is this something you might have past experience with or just maybe a burning ambition to help young people thrive.
Want to know more? Contact Nick 0n 07976 894904 or by email on ashfordexplorers@gmail.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/11/2020 16:41:00
Celebrating Befriending Week
Thanks to our amazing volunteers, many older people in the borough receive regular contact from someone who cares. Join us in celebrating them and the nation’s whole army during Befriending Week!
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 03/11/2020 10:43:00
Volunteer Tree Planters needed!
Ashford Borough Council has been granted funding by the Forestry Commission to plant 6,666 trees in Chilmington near the existing ancient woodland of Colemans’ Kitchen. This is a good opportunity for local people, young and young at heart, to come out and take part in the planting.
The Council’s Aspire teams will be on-site from this month through to February helping to facilitate the planting. They welcome any volunteers and they’ll provide different opportunities for anyone pitching in. Of course, everyone will need to work in groups of no more than six to keep with current guidelines.
but Aspire assures us that they can help setup small groups to then work independently.
A full risk assessment is being completed and hand sanitisers along with other PPE will be made available.
Activities will include: Preparation of planting pits; Planting the tree whips; Staking and guarding the trees; Mulching
Interested? Contact Dan Daley, ABC, Chilmington Project Team on:-
e: dan.daley@ashford.gov.uk
01233 330333
07934 037619
Published by Lee Robinson on 22/10/2020 12:05:00
Volunteers for Carers Advisory group
Carers Support East Kent are committed to increasing the involvement of Carers in the organisation to ensure they listen and respond to the support needs of Carers in the most effective way. They are currently recruiting members to a Carers’ Involvement Advisory Group which is being established to review involvement plans for all new and existing services and priorities.
This will involve attending regular meetings (typically monthly for a couple of hours, in person or virtually) and also receiving and reviewing information between meetings.
They are looking to recruit up to 16 Carers from a cross-section of areas in East Kent and different caring role circumstances including carers from Ashford.
They are particularly interested in hearing from carers who rarely use carer services, as well as carers already familiar with Carers’ Support East Kent.
Whilst the role is voluntary, transport costs will be covered and we will endeavour to provide funds for replacement care so that members can attend the meetings in person.
The closing date for applications is 30th October 2020.
https://carersek.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Role-Profile-Carers-Involvement-Advisory-Group.pdf
For more information about the role and to apply please contact gillianwells@carersek.org.uk or call Gillian on 07970928425.
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/10/2020 15:32:00
Cancer Research need Till volunteers
The Cancer Research charity shop in the lower High Street are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to volunteer on their tills. Want retail experience or simply want to support a worthwhile charity?
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-us
Contact Fiona Barnes on ashfordkentshop@cancer.org.uk or call the shop on 01233 646488
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/10/2020 10:31:00
Foodbank volunteers needed
Fareshare Kent, who oversee the Ashford Foodbank, continue to look for volunteers for what continues to be a difficult time for many.
The Ashford team are looking for more support at the present time in their warehouse, the odd portering role, and also as they expand with their food bank and community pantry offers.
Emma White, volunteer coordinator, is happy to conduct tours with prospective volunteers.
Interested? Contact Emma on emmawhite@faresharekent.org.uk or call 01233 500477.
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/10/2020 10:06:00
Contribute to Plastic-Free
Plastic Free Ashford are looking for like-minded volunteers to help them canvas local business to sign up to their cause. Toolkit and support from the group will be, of course, provided.
Who we are
Plastic Free Ashford is a volunteer group run by local people with a shared passion. We are associated with the UK-wide campaign from Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) to tackle single-use plastic in UK towns and communities. In order to achieve official ‘SAS Plastic-Free Community’ status for Ashford we need:
local businesses to pledge to switch at least three single-use plastics to sustainable alternatives
a network of supporting community allies from schools and churches to sports and social groups
an ongoing schedule of communal events
Our 2020 plastic-free pledge
There is growing concern over the impact that society has on the environment, particularly regarding the widespread and popular use of single-use plastics.
Interested in their cause? Then contact Nadege on
Plasticfreeashford@outlook.com or 07912 289517
Published by Lee Robinson on 19/10/2020 08:44:00
Friends of Victoria Park
Volunteer Opportunity
Friends of Victoria Park have some great ideas and ambitions, but to help them deliver and to engage the whole diverse local community, they still have vacancy for a youth outreach member. Please note this is an unpaid volunteer role. If you would be interested in joining their committee please email secretary@victoriaparkashford.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/10/2020 09:21:00
Shrub clearance - St Francis Church
The team at St Francis Church, off Cryol Road, South Ashford have a potential "team project" (or open to individuals who might be able to help!).
The area around St Francis Church boundaries have been neglected over the years and now that the church are involved in various community projects and using the areas more, the overgrown shrubs and trees are causing issues, along with looking unsightly.
Interested in helping out? Then contact:-
Derek Goodwin - Derektownparish@virginmedia.com
Reverend Cathie Aldis Saunders - cathie.aldis@ashfordchurches.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/10/2020 08:44:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 15/10/2020 08:47:00
East Kent Baby Memorial Garden news
After seven years as part of Sands, the Ashford Baby Memorial Garden will be running as a separate charity - the ‘East Kent Baby Memorial Gardens’ charity. This will manage the Garden from October 2020.
The new charity will make sure the Ashford Baby Memorial Garden continues to be the beautiful lovely place it has always been.
The volunteers managing the new charity are Emma Oram (Chair), Vicky Neaves, Sam Miller, Charmaine Price, Christine Twydell, Jo Coles and Chris Twydell, all of whom have been involved with Sands and the Ashford Garden for many years.
It would be great to have a few more people on board and If anyone else would like to join their small (very friendly!) committee, please get in touch. They would love to hear from you.
New Web Site
www.EastKentBabyMemorialGardens.org.uk <https://eastkentbabymemorialgardens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d8cb4636660fff33b8fa742e6&id=93d03d5561&e=7232012cbc>
Published by Lee Robinson on 08/10/2020 10:22:00
Woodchurch in Bloom need web designer
The Woodchurch In Bloom Group needs some voluntary support. They are a voluntary community group that operates in their village on a range of gardening / horticultural activities. They are crucial community support - helping reduce social isolation, improve mental and physical well-being through therapeutic horticulture.
As an established group they are keen to develop a suitable supportive website.
They already have a domain name registered but would appreciate some support and guidance in developing the website and making it effective.
Could you help? Woodchurch in Bloom group would be pleased to hear from you.
Contact Alan Baker on alanjamesbaker@gmail.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 08/10/2020 10:01:00
Volunteers with mechanics know-how
The MotoV8 Project – which teaches basic motorbike mechanics young people in the Ashford District – are seeking tutors. We need volunteers skilled in mechanics for evening club sessions and paid mechanics for afternoon sessions.
Interested? Contact Deirdre O'Neil on 01233 613282 or deirdre@sk8side.org
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/10/2020 20:15:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 07/10/2020 09:25:00
Friends of Victoria Park trustees
The Friends of Victoria Park are looking for enthusiastic people to join their committee to help them expand the group, plan and organise events, support their social media and help them connect with more of the local community.
If you would be interested in joining their committee reply to this email - forum@southashford.org.uk
This is, of course, a voluntary unpaid role.
If you know anybody that might be interested do forward this to them or refer them to The Friends of Victoria Park website, victoriaparkashford.uk/
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/10/2020 14:47:00
Become a Covid-19 Community Champion
Local health authorities, through their collective efforts, want to help protect of the most vulnerable groups from the impact of COVID-19. The first phase of the campaign is focused on the headline COVID safety messages and symptom awareness, with phase two including broader healthy lifestyle messages. The first phase of resources are now freely available to download by any resident or organisation https://www.medway.gov.uk/communityresources
To support them in reaching all residents and groups with these important messages, they are launching the COVID-19 Community Champions Programme.
* Update your community with latest information
* Talk to those groups most at risk
* Promote positive life-styles
Anyone can become a champion, and there is no set time commitment for those that do sign up. Ideally we are looking to recruit residents who are trusted in their communities and have the opportunity to relay the key COVID messages, as they become relevant.
The champions will be welcome to attend regular question and answer sessions with local experts, although there is no expectation that they have to attend these.
For information on what is happening locally contact ABMChampions@medway.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/10/2020 09:16:00
Essential Digital Skills FREE
Social Enterprise Kent are running essential digital skills 3 day courses with two running in Ashford. The sessions are running on the outskirts of Ashford at the SEK offices near Ashford Orbital.
The courses are fully funded for people who are not in paid employment. They are taking place on 26th, 27th, 28th after which each candidate will receive a follow up session a month later to cover off specific areas of development.
Interested or want to know more? Contact Kirsty Hawkins, Director of Learning and Skills
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/10/2020 14:18:00
Transport Office Volunteers needed
Ashford Volunteer Centre has been running a successful Volunteer Car Scheme for over 40 years.
We need Volunteer Transport Office volunteers for specific slots during the week. Do you have a couple of hours to spare? Do you have skills and/or experience of working in an office? Would you like to gain some office experience?
Then we would like to hear from you!!
Volunteers in the Transport office will need good written and communication skills, have the ability to get along with others, have good planning and organisational skills, be IT proficient and have a good telephone manner.
Generally our volunteers “buddy-up” in the office which we have seen develop into great teams but also great friendships.
During your time as a volunteer you will be managed and supported by one of the Volunteer Services Coordinators. We’ll make sure you are trained, looked after and happy. Most importantly, you should be able to enjoy your time in the Transport office.
Sound interesting? Then drop us a note on contact@ashfordvc.org.uk or call 01233 633219. We look forward to hearing from you!!
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/09/2020 14:23:00
Voluntary Meditation offer
One of our regular links at the volunteer centre offers meditation through her NLP practitioner and Life Coach service.
Yvonne continues to support her existing clients one to one, either face to face, online or via telephone. However, she is keen to offer something supportive a little wider.
She has produced a professional recording of one of the meditations from her 8 week Relaxation Mindfuness Meditation programme - normally run at Charing Surgery.
She is making this available on a free or donations welcome basis (via a JustGiving page set up in support of animal charities).
Here’s the link to the JustGiving just so that you can see where donations would go to.
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lululittlebearandmausdream?utm_medium=email&utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_campaign=20200615_114718
To receive the recording simply email Yvonne on yvonne@yvonnefernandonlp.co.uk
www.yvonnefernandonlp.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/09/2020 12:35:00
Young Carers Volunteers needed for Ashford
Crossroads Care provides regular group meetings and activities outside of school time for Young Carers. They run local club nights and individual support plans, which give young carers a chance to reduce their isolation; improve confidence and self-esteem; take part in fun and exciting activities; and most of all meet other children who are experiencing the same difficulties they are.
This service also takes place in Ashford.
Volunteers are needed. Crossroad Care rely heavily on our volunteers in our projects through Kent. Our Volunteers will be part of a team that are needed to help out at Club Nights including: -
• Joining in the activities of the group including sports such as pool and football; dance, arts & crafts, cooking, listening to music, drama productions, team games & quizzes
• Encourage Young Carers to be involved in the group
• Preparing refreshments
• Make sure everyone in the group feels included
• To provide transport to and from the group for Young Carers, where appropriate and with the necessary checks.
• Volunteers will not be involved in any personal care, manual handling or lifting and will not handle any medication.
Interest? Then contact Michael Blown, Young Carers Project Officer, Crossroads Care Kent on 01622 397920 or michael.blown@crossroadskent.org.
More background available on www.crossroadskent.org:
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/09/2020 12:06:00
The Shed is open!!
Ashford Volunteer Centres Men in Sheds project, "Shedwick", has been successful in offering opportunities for men to get together to "make things" but, most importantly, to socialise and make friends.
Lockdown has created an opportunity to review and "tweak" the project for a new group of men to enjoy. The sessions have a new supervisor, Andy, who will be on hand to support and guide.
Interested in woodwork? Want to get outside and meet people in a creative and safe environment?
The sessions now take place on a Tuesday. 10am - 12pm and a later 12.30pm - 2.30pm. If you would like to know then call Lindsay, at AVC, on 01233 665535, email
contact@ashfordvc.org.uk or simply pop along...oh, and it's FREE!!
Published by Lee Robinson on 29/09/2020 12:33:00
Young people - Go Green for your community
GEECO (Green Eyes of Ecology) are a small group of young people that are looking for new members to be able to apply for Erasmus+ funding…a short deadline.
The ultimate funding bid states that this project is a “youth-led activity”, where informal groups of at least five young people (aged 18 -30 years old) can get funding to run a project in the UK, lasting between two and 12 months.
Open to anyone between 18-30 with a passion for positive environmental change.
The project will provide a chance to network and meet other young people who are also looking to submit a community project
Go Green for your Community!
Go Green for your Community aims at bringing together young people from Kent who are passionate about the environment and supporting the local community.
We hope to provide learning, time and space for you to find out more about how to develop a project in your local community.
So register your interest or to ask more by sending an email to The GEECO Team, Georgina Cooper, at greeneyesofecology@mail.com and cc: info@marchwoodproject.com for more information.
For more information about solidarity corps, please refer to this link: https://epale.ec.europa.eu/en/blog/how-you-can-help-environment-european-solidarity-corps-project
Any enquiries, send us an email and we will be happy to respond.
http://geeco.elementfx.com/
http://marchwoodproject.com/
Published by Lee Robinson on 25/09/2020 08:36:00
Ashford Interfaith Group
The Ashford Interfaith Group will be holding their second event during national Inter Faith Week , 8th - 15th November 2020.
Then group discussion will take place on-line, on the topic of "Peace".
Wednesday November 11 2020: 7pm - 8.30pm: by Zoom!!
How to join:-
Send an email to ashfordinterfaith@gmail.com with "Zoom Please Evening Gathering" in the subject.
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/09/2020 09:29:00
Young peoples independent visitors wanted
The Surrey Independent Visitor Service has young people locally who need volunteers to visit and take them out to do activities.
The role is voluntary and will (normally) involve a young person aged 10-17 who do not have regular contact with a family member and would benefit from a regular visitor.
It will involve one day per month, usually at weekends and a commitment for at least two years.
Interested and want to know more? Please contact Nicola or Sandy on independentvisitors@surreycc.gov.uk or 01372 833359, 07815 951168, 07815 707401.
Published by Lee Robinson on 18/09/2020 08:41:00
New Befriending referral form available
Ashford Volunteer Centre are pleased to announce ther updated befriending referral form which now includes telephone befriending and letter writing as well as our traditional face-to-face service.
Please note that due to Covid-19 we do have a large waiting list, and home assessment visits and subsequent matches will be dependent on whether it’s safe to go ahead for both parties (so please manage your client’s expectations when filling out the form with them).
Please also be aware that our volunteers are unlikely to have the skills or experience to be matched with someone with moderate or advanced communication issues or mental health difficulties: you therefore might want to consider approaching the support group for their condition first (e.g. Mind or Dementia UK) to see if they can provide more appropriate services.
Published by Lee Robinson on 18/09/2020 08:16:00
Macmillan cake morning raises £92!
Thanks to the Cake Box in Ashford, Tesco Park Farm, Greggs, Warrens Bakery and the Woodpecker Trust for their kind donations – thanks to their delicious baked goodies (and the people who bought them) we raised over £90 for Macmillan Cancer Support!
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 17/09/2020 13:34:00
Coronavirus update for volunteering
The Gov.uk website have issued an update for those wanting to volunteer during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The link is as follows...
You can;
* volunteer outside your home, for example by delivering food and medicine
* volunteer from home, for example by working on a telephone support helpline
* in a workplace, for example an office - if you are volunteering in a workplace, it should meet coronavirus safety standards.
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/09/2020 09:37:00
Age UK need more drivers!!
Age UK are looking for more drivers, particularly for weekend deliveries. If you are interested do get in contact with Louise Roberts, Age UK Community Engagement Officer, at the Joe Fagg Community Centre, Stanhope Road
Ashford, TN23 5RF on 01233 668765 or mfo@ageukashford.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/09/2020 14:24:00
Macmillan Coffee morning
Macmillan coffee morning
Thursday, September 17th
10-11am
Ashford Volunteer Centre are hosting a takeaway Macmillan 'coffee' morning (with a difference - no coffee!) from the volunteer centre car park and we’re hoping you’ll have time to stop by for a treat. There will be some delicious cakes and also the chance to win a prize with our ‘guess the sprinkles on the cake’ competition. We will of course be following all the procedures to keep you and us safe, which means we won’t actually be serving coffee at our coffee morning (you’ll just have to enjoy extra cake instead) and we are pricing everything at £1 so nobody has to worry about handling change.
So please come along with a pocket full of pounds and help do your bit for this great cause. We look forward to seeing you next Thursday! If you have missed us it might be an opportunity to shout "hello" from a distance!
P.S. As our stall will be at the front of the car park you won’t be able to park your car.
Published by Lee Robinson on 08/09/2020 14:32:00
Feeling Creative? Banners needed!!
Emergency Exit Arts are looking for community groups that would like to use their creative spirit andtake part in a banner-making project. All groups would work withn a lead artist to design large scale banners with na theme of "Lockdown" - and positivity coming out of it.
Creations would be displayed in shops around the town. The workshops will take place in early October - two days working with the artists.
Four leading artists are waiting to work with successful groups. Interested and want to know more?
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/09/2020 16:16:00
Space for young people needed
Covid-19 and subsequent social distancing has put pressures on many organisations to continue to support. Sk8side in Ashford has been able to deliver parts of their programme during the summer months but as winter sets in this will become more difficult.
Deirdre O'Neil, project manager, who appreciate hearing from anyone who might have a suitable indoor space and/or warehouse. Any suitable unused building idea to run both their girls skate project and indoor sessions for skateboarders, BMXers and scooter riders.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/09/2020 16:00:00
Live in Wye??
Do you live in Wye? The the Our Place Wye team would like to hear from you via their ‘conversationnaire’ about Wye Caring For Wye - Curious About Compassion.
The aim is to learn what has worked in the community so far and how these lessons might be taken forward into the future for ongoing and new opportunities in the village. It should take about 10-15 minutes to complete.
Please feel free to share this invitation and link with people you know in Wye. It is for everyone local. It will also soon be posted on the Facebook page and distributed with the next OPW Newsletter. They also have a plan in place for assisting people with completing it if this is something people would like.
Please click here to start the conversationnaire: https://forms.gle/RNvTsz4sVtkvQKaeA .
For more information - Maria Stuttaford; Covid19 Coordinator: Our Place Wye CIC
email - coordinator@ourplacewye.org.uk Mobile - 07561600889
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/09/2020 16:27:00
CROP P/T Coordinator
CROP is a registered charity supporting older people to improve their lives and wellbeing by helping them to access advocacy, Information, Advice and Guidance
They are currently looking for a Part Time Area Co-ordinator for East Kent which will be based at their offices in Lenham.
Working Hours: 21 hrs per week (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Salary: £19,500 (pro rata part time) plus Mileage at 40p per mile
Holiday: Annual leave 25 days’ FTE (plus Bank Holidays)
Supporting a small team, the role will involve focusing on and managing Volunteers and Client referrals in the East Kent Area. A working knowledge of Benefit Entitlements, particularly experience and understanding of applying for Attendance Allowance, PIP and supporting Appeals would be an advantage. The work is varied and interesting.
For full details on our organisation please see our website: www.cropkent.org.uk.
To ask for an application and apply please email lenham@cropkent.org.uk or ring Debbie or Barbara on 01622 851200
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/09/2020 15:51:00
Voluntary Secretary of the Trustee Board
Voluntary Secretary of the Trustee Board
Ashford Mediation Service are looking for a Voluntary Secretary for their Trustee Board. The role is to ensure that the organisation complies with its governing documents, with charity law, and with any legislation or regulation relevant to the services it provides and how it provides them.
Responsible to the Board of Trustees the position will be challenging but equally fulfilling. It may also provide experience for life skills in general and for enhancing your CV.
The role will include:-
Upholding legal requirements
Ensuring meetings are effectively organised and minuted
Maintaining effective records and administration
Communication and correspondence
Starting to sound interesting. For a no obligation chat contact Ian Redding on info@ashfordmediation.co.uk or call on 07845 914838
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/09/2020 15:36:00
Essential Digital Skills FREE
SEK - Social Enterprise Kent have a great (and FREE!) course coming up in Ashford.
They have 20 places.
The only criteria:- delegates must be either unemployed or economically inactive. Laptops will be provided, classes will maintain full social distancing and strict health & safety measures, and the training will be focused on real-world knowledge and practical skills.
Includes:
Accessing a computer
Typing & Word Processing
Online security & safety
Managing Online transactions
IT problem solving
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/09/2020 14:46:00
We're recruiting!
Thanks to some generous funding from Kent Community Foundation and others, we are recruiting for three temporary positions...
Community Car Scheme Development Officer - full time - 12 month fixed-term contract
APPLY NOW!
We will also be recruiting for a Befriending Coordinator Reaching Further (16 hrs a week - 6 month fixed-term contract) and Finance Coordinator (7.5 hours a week - 12 month contract) which will be advertised in the next few weeks on Jobs In Kent. All have a short application period so if you’re interested, please apply straight away!
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/08/2020 16:08:00
CROP are recruiting
Area Co-ordinator for East Kent
Location: Lenham
Working hours: 21hrs per week (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Salary: £19,500 (pro rata, part time) plus mileage at 40p per mile
Holiday: 25 days’ FTE (plus Bank Holidays)
Supporting a small team, this role will involve focusing on and managing volunteers and client referrals in the East Kent area. A working knowledge of benefit entitlements, particularly experience and understanding of applying for Attendance Allowance, PIP and supporting appeals would be an advantage. The work is varied and interesting, focusing on a range of issues from benefits to housing/council, or simply providing a voice to ensure a person’s views are listened to. As part of the role you also undertake your own case work. You will be the first point of contact for your volunteers, acting as their sounding board and training partner. There is some networking, raising the profile of CROP and support in recruiting new volunteers. As part of the team you will be fully supported with on-going training throughout your journey with CROP.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/08/2020 16:07:00
Fundraise for the RNLI this bank holiday
The Royal National Lifeboat Association are looking for a few volunteers to help raise funds at the Ashford Outlet over the August Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday and Sunday). If you can spare at least four hours between 10am and 6pm then email Graham at
gpaine74@aol.com or call him on 07793 453088 – as a thank you you’ll get a 20% discount at the Helly Hansen store too!
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 17/08/2020 13:41:00
Telephone Signposting & Info volunteer
The Silver Line helpline for older people are looking for signposting and information volunteers.
You will be helping older people to access and connect with services in their local area. Through research and making telephone calls on the person's behalf, your input and support will help empower them to become more confident and less isolated.
This role can be home-based and reliant on a DBS check and two references.
If you have a desire to help older people then contact Kenneth Dale, Volunteer Coordinator, Connects Service on 0203 409 3872, Mobile 07483 025973 Extension 257
Email kenneth.dale@thesilverline.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/08/2020 09:25:00
Age UK Ashford volunteers wanted
Age UK Ashford are looking for weekend delivery drivers as they have expanded their meal delivery service to 7 days per week due to increased demand.
They also need a volunteer with admin experience and computer skills to assist with their volunteer coordination and befriending service. The candidates will need to have an eye for detail!
The Age UK services are slowly coming back to the centre at Farrow Court, off the Stanhope ring-road. In order to keep it safe they would appreciate anyone who might help with keeping the area tidy and clean.
Any of these of interest? Contact Louise Roberts on mfo@ageukashford.org.uk or 01233 668765.
Published by Lee Robinson on 12/08/2020 11:17:00
Learn skills at The Woolshed
Wye Community Farms “Woolshed” are offering volunteering and work experience opportunities.
Learn new skills and improve your confidence at The Woolshed, Wye Community Farm’s mini-mill where we turn the fleece from our sheep into beautiful, sustainable products. Friendly sessions held every Wednesday.
Transport provided from Wye village, which is well served by bus and train. For further information and to book your FREE place, contact us at info@wyecommunityfarm.org.uk
The first session will be Wednesday, 2 September, every Wednesday from then on
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/08/2020 12:48:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 12/08/2020 11:36:00
Food donation pick up volunteer drivers required
Beaver Community Trusts Light Bite café are looking for a volunteer driver to help pick up food donations from various supermarkets and suppliers.
The pick ups include:-
Pick up 1: Monday and Wednesdays between 8am – 9am
Pick up 2: Monday and Wednesdays between 9am – 10am
Pick up 3: Tuesday, 8am
A fuel allowance of 45p per mile is provided with all collectiosn delivered to the Willow Centres “Lightbites” café.
Interested? Call Sheila Tong on 03000 412950 or email her on
Sheila.tong@kent.gov.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/08/2020 11:36:00
Parish Council Volunteer Treasurer
During lockdown many have highlighted their "genius" - their unique skills that might help their local communities more.
Many have promoted their aptitude with numbers! If you have accountancy skills or qualifications or a natural skill with numbers then Appledore Parish Council might like to hear from you.
They are looking for Treasurer support. If you think this is something you would like to know a little more about or are interested in please contact Lyndsey Jenkins, Appledore Parish Council Trustee on apc.ljenkins@gmail.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/08/2020 11:01:00
Volunteer outdoors - Willow Bushcraft
With weather like this who wouldn't want to volunteer outside - under the shade of a tree?
Lisa and the team at Willow Bush Craft at March Wood are looking for people who might have a little time on their hands.
Do you want to help and meet new people in a unique environment?
At their base at March Wood they have plenty of odd jobs, painting, putting up guttering, woodland conservation...and much, much more.
In return they will provide lunch, drinks (kettle from a woodland fire!) and a friendly face.
Come along to the "Feel Good Friday Volunteer Club"...10am - 2pm. ADULTS ONLY.
For available dates and bokin please visit - https://willowbushcraft.co.uk/volunteer-days/volunteer-days - please use the drop down arrow on the website to view all the available dates
E-Mail Lisa on info@willowbushcraft.co.uk: Directions via Google Maps - March Wood, Ashford
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/08/2020 09:05:00
Family Activity Days - Help wanted
Local charity, The Hope Tree, are looking for volunteers to help with a series of Family Activity Days in August (20th, 21st, 24th) The events are running between 10am and 3pm at Repton Connect, Repton Community Centre, Repton Avenue, Ashford TN23 3RX.
The days are designed for families to have fun away from their homes.
Interested in helping? Email info@myhopetree.org.uk or call them on 07444 299575.
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/08/2020 13:57:00
Drivers for food deliveries
Repton Connect is a community centre run by Repton Community Trust made up of local people.
The trust’s vision is: Putting the heart in Repton. It’s mission – ton provide an excellent place for people to connect and build community.
Repton Connect Community Centre are looking for volunteer drivers to help pick up and deliver food to people in need throughout Ashford. They run 'The People's Pantry' a community led food bank providing food, hygiene items and cleaning products. They are looking for someone to help support the project on an ad hoc basis (probably no more than a few deliveries/pick -ups every week). Mileage would of course be paid. They will also supply masks, gloves and sanitiser to help ensure pick- ups/deliveries are as Covid safe as possible. They would also fund a DBS check if you don't already have one.
Please contact us for more information info@reptonct.uk Tel:01233 808023.
https://reptonct.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/08/2020 10:28:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 03/08/2020 11:02:00
Dads Unlimited community support
Dads Unlimited is a charity that offers practical advice and guidance on the legal and emotional issues around separation/divorce and access to children; it aims to support a Dad, be him Single, Married, Widowed or Full-Time Carer, on everything to do with Parenting, their Mental Health and their Emotions; and then develop a community of Dads.
The Dads Unlimited charity have been given the use of some land, just outside Ashford, over the summer months to use as a camping area for separated families.
They are looking for a campsite volunteer to assist in maintaining the site and being on-hand for when they have families to stay. For anyone that would be willing to volunteer, they would need an enhanced DBS in place or completed as they will be directly in contact with children. Preferred that you also undertake Safeguarding Children - Level 1.
Interested? Contact Frances Hunt, Community Outreach Director by email on frances@dadsunltd.org.uk or 01233 680159.
facebook.com/dadsunltd twitter.com/dadsunltd www.dadsunltd.org.uk
Sign-Up to our mailing list: http://eepurl.com/dow2Sv
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/08/2020 10:17:00
RNLI collectors needed
RNLI are looking for bucket collectors to support them at the McArthur Glen Outlet centre in Ashford over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Dates plans run from Saturday 29th August 2020 to Monday 31st August 2020 inclusive. There will be a planned rota so you will not be expected to cover the whole time!!
There will have a maximum of 6 collectors at any one point and will be working in groups of two. RNLI will be providing all of the necessary equipment.
As a thank you anyone that volunteers over the weekend will receive a 10% discount in the Helly Hansen store in the outlet.
Interested? Contact Graham Paine for more information or to sign up on -
gpaine74@aol.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/07/2020 12:50:00
Volunteer with Rare Breeds
We have been highlighted to volunteering opportunities at the Rare Breeds Centre at Highlands Farm, Woodchurch. The centre opening will be staggered and the volunteer coordinator, Paul Harris, is looking for volunteers for basic support like directing visitors to the parking areas. Volunteers will always be working with someone else and PPE will be provided. Training and on-site briefing will be conducted before commencement of the role.
Paul is looking for people to help any day of the week between 10am and 2pm. Please contact Paul by email if you are interested and/or want a little more information (ph@c-o-t.org.uk)
https://www.rarebreeds.org.uk/
www.c-o-t.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 28/07/2020 16:42:00
Supporting vulnerable disabled people
Centre for Independent Living Kent is a registered charity providing practical support, information and advice to help people living with disabilities.
Find out more...www.cilk.org.uk or on Facebook www.facebook.com/Centre-for-Independent-Living-Kent-437681010485
CILK has seen through its social media channels and from their community partners that there are large numbers of isolated disabled people at risk of slipping through the net and have a new project called Operation Safety Net.
Volunteers for this project will
• Make regular welfare/befriending calls to isolated disabled people
• Signpost beneficiaries to appropriate sources of support.
• Assess and log each client's health and wellbeing
• Record all client interactions
CILK are looking for friendly, empathetic listeners with good IT and admin skills
All volunteers will undertake a DBS check
Comprehensive training will bne provided.
Volunteers will work from home and call at least one client per week (more depending on how much time you are able to offer). We expect each call and recording information from the call to take one hour.
For more details contact Neville Dack (Project Lead) on 07494 490505 or safetynet@cilk.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/07/2020 08:43:00
Gardening Volunteers needed
Are you a passionate gardener and would like to help out in your local community?
Live Well Kent, is part of Shaw Trust, a national charity, and supports those with mental health issues improve their health and wellbeing throughout Kent. We support clients with a range of mental health issues to access support and services within a network of providers. As a gardening volunteer, you will be supporting a local project for a national charity that helps people facing disadvantage gain skills, find work and take control of their futures. You will use your gardening or horticultural skills to maintain the project gardens.
Good to excellent gardening or horticultural skills and previous experience. Ability to work practically and to contribute to the general aims of the Shaw Trust. To be physically fit and able to cope with the demands of the role.
Although the centre is currently closed due to Covid 19 restrictions- we are planning our re-opening in the coming months. We ask people to give two hours per month as a minimum, although many of our volunteers give more than this. The centre will be open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. This role requires a DBS check due to the vulnerable clients who may be on site. We will pay reasonable travel expenses. Volunteers need to be aged over 18.
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/07/2020 09:27:00
Lightbites Café Summer Meals
Lightbites cafe runs from the Willow Centre, Brookfield Road, Ashford. The café will provide free hot meals from July 23 2020 for the duration of the summer holidays and has a limited number of food boxes and feminine hygiene products available.
All containers used at the cafe are reusable so please bring them back to be refilled.
Pick up times are between 12pm - 2pm, Monday - Friday. Pick ups are to happen from the conservatory door which is shown in the picture above and all social distancing measures need to be adhered to.
For more information please contact - Sheila Tong on 03000 412950 or call the café on 03000 420551.
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/07/2020 14:38:00
Grub from the Hub
"Grub from the Hub"
Starting on July 21 2020, for the duration of the summer holidays, free lunches will be provided from the Stanhope Community Hub every Tuesday and Thursday for the community.
All you need to do is book a time slot (first come, first served) and choose your lunch option (found on Facebook page) and pick up your lunch from the Hub.
How to book:
Email Holly at holly@uprisinguk.org.uk or message us through the Stanhope Community Hub Facebook Page. For further information call 07949 332 911.
Published by Lee Robinson on 15/07/2020 09:50:00
Help Sands with their web page?
East Kent Sands (www.eastkentsands.org.uk) provide a unique support service to families who have suffered the loss of a baby. Sadly, this effects 15 families every day. Their support covers a wide range of help on dealing with the death of a baby – from some of the practical considerations, how best to keep special memories through to how to plan for the future.
Many will know that the Memorial Gardens in Ashford Town Centre includes the Ashford Baby Memorial Garden.
Chris Twydell, from the charity, would be happy to hear from anyone with suitable creative talent to help design a new website for the group. At the same time the group are also looking for a new logo for the garden. Fit the bill? Then get in touch with Chris on 01233 643976/07511 021636 or via email christwydell@btinternet.com
Of course, at what is already a difficult time, if you (or anyone you know) is suffering from such a loss the group would be pleased to listen and help.
Published by Lee Robinson on 14/07/2020 12:11:00
Holding On Letting Go - help a bereaved child
Holding On Letting Go is a Kent-based charity that helps children to cope with the death of someone close to them.
They have a number of roles recently available for 11 weekends a year maximum (committing to very least 3):-
• Child Helper – Sittingbourne (8 weekends a year); Broadstairs (2 weekends a year); Sevenoaks (1 weekend a year). This role involves working alongside a child/young person on a bereavement support weekend.
• General Duty Volunteer – expectations as above with this role to work alongside Programme Manager, Assistants and Group Leaders.
• Driver – based at options above and providing transport for children/young people and their parent/carer.
• Kitchen- washing, preparing and cooking food.
For more information contact the central point by email – info@holg.org.uk ; telephone or 03445 611511 or contact Programme Assistant Caroline Holman on caroline.norman@holg.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 14/07/2020 09:04:00
Scouting in Ashford
Ashford District Explorer Scouts are looking for volunteers and have a 4 week offer to see if you would like to take any interest forward.
They have a range of roles that could include supporting young people to behind the scenes. In fact, any help would be greatly appreciated.
Interested? Contact Nick O’Callaghan on 07976 894904 or email ashfordexplorers@gmail.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/07/2020 15:57:00
Healthwatch UK
Healthwatch Kent is the county’s health and social care champion.
They exist to make sure people are at the heart of care. Volunteers are at the heart of everything they do from listening to people to making decisions about Healthwatch’s priorities.
Healthwqatch are currently looking for volunteers to help people have their say on health and social care, report on services, raise awareness and sharing their professional skills.
If you would like to know more contact info@healthwatchkent.co.uk or have a look online www.healthwatchkent.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/07/2020 15:40:00
Foodbank Warehouse Volunteers
The Ashford Fareshare Foodbank warehouse are currently looking for warehouse assistants (although would welcome a cleaner or two).
The warehouse offers a great working environment although will involve some heavy lifting. There is also a need for volunteers to be able to work independently at times.
Shifts are 9am – 12.30pm or 12pm – 4pm.
If interested or want to know more information contact Emma White on 01233 500477 or by email on emmawhite@faresharekent.org.uk.
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/07/2020 15:31:00
Friends of Victoria Park
The Friends of Victoria Park support the development of the park as the jewel in the Boroughs crown.
This Summer they had many planned events, including their Summer Series, Family Fun Run, Big Butterfly Count and British Spring Clean Litter Pick. These, and others have had to be cancelled.
However, these unfortunate events have given many people the opportunity to spend much more time than usual in the park and shown the importance of local open spaces in our community.
The “Friends” are looking to increase their core team, so that they can create more diverse and resilient events in the future. If you would be interested in joining the committee, or helping with planning events, please do get in touch through email at secretary@victoriaparkashford.uk
The next general meeting, via zoom, is on 22nd July at 7pm. If you would like to join us then please contact them as above. They will be holding an election for the position of Chair Person during this meeting, and have an update from the Ashford Borough Council on the project.
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/07/2020 09:16:00
Healthwatch volunteers needed
Healthwatch support the monitoring of how the NHS and Social Care works.
Now, more than ever, they need volunteers to help gather feedback from people about health and social care services.
Do you have more time on your hands at the moment? Could you volunteer with Healthwatch, even if it is for a short time?
Here are a few ideas to give you a taste of what is needed:
* Volunteers with graphic design or photographic skills
* People able to reach out to communities to build relationships
* working with services such as Care Homes, Cancer or maternity to improve services
* Representing Healthwatch at strategic meetings
* Theming and analysing the feedbackwe hear from the public
* working on the Healthwatch helpline
If you are interested, or wantb to know more, check ou the website or email info@healthwatchkent.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/07/2020 08:32:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 09/07/2020 08:36:00
Ashford BME Lets Talk
Ashford BME Association presents - Let's Talk!
AShford BME Association is inviting 11-25 year olds to join them for their "Let's Talk" project.
"Let's Talk" is a platform and safe place for young people top explore issues that effect them. This is an opportunity for your voices to be heard, to take owvership of programme design, service delivery and social action.
Register in advance to join them on a Zoom meeting hosted by Fennie and Golibe on...
* July 17 2020
* 4-5pm
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/07/2020 12:36:00
Sands East Kent needs your creative support
East Kent Sands (www.eastkentsands.org.uk) provide a unique support service to families who have suffered the loss of a baby. Sadly, this effects 15 families every day. Their support covers a wide range of help on dealing with the death of a baby – from some of the practical considerations, how best to keep special memories through to how to plan for the future.
Many will know that the Memorial Gardens in Ashford Town Centre includes the Ashford Baby Memorial Garden. It is a unique and special place and the local group are looking for a volunteer with some photographic experience to take some suitable pictures of the memorial. They are not necessarily looking for a professional but someone who can take good pics and do it justice.
If you can help, or know someone who can, please contact Chris Twydell from Sands on 01233 643976/07511 021636 or via email christwydell@btinternet.com
Chris would also be happy to hear from anyone with suitable creative talent to help design a new website for the group. At the same time the group are also looking for a new logo for the garden. Fit the bill? Then get in touch with Chris.
Of course, at what is already a difficult time, if you (or anyone you know) is suffering from such a loss the group would be pleased to listen and help.
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/06/2020 15:04:00
Kids Take Over - volunteers needed
As part of the exciting National Lottery Heritage Fund Project the project Youth Involvement Co-ordinator, Nicola Priest, is looking for 4 young people (or groups of young people) aged 12-18 to create short Video and social media posts based on Victoria Park and Watercress Fields.
This will be part of a young people's social media Takeover activity in July 2020.
You can film your video or take photos at home, Victoria Park or another outside space - please stick to social distancing guidance.
Ideas suggested include Exercise, Art & Craft, History, Nature, Lockdown or Nicola is happy to hear your ideas.
For more information contact Nicola Priest, Victoria Park Youth Involvement Co-ordinator on
nicola.priest@ashford.gov.uk. Contact deadline is June 30 2020.
Twitter @VictoriaParkABC
Instagram @ victoriaparkashford
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/06/2020 11:49:00
Volunteering with NHS/Healthwatch
Healthwatch want to hear from you! Healthwatch are the independent champion for people who use health and social care services in Kent. They are here to make sure those running the services, put people at the heart of care.
Do you have more time on your hands?
Could you volunteer with Healthwatch?
Healthwatch have many opportunities to get involved:-
* Volunteers with graphic design or photography skills
* Community networkers to build relationships
* Working with services such as care homes, cancer to help improve services
* Representing Healthwatch at strategic meetings
* Theming and analysing the feedback from then public
* Working on the Healthwatch helpline
Interested? Check out the website or email info@healthwatchkent.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/06/2020 12:41:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 16/06/2020 12:44:00
Young persons Volunteer Befriender
NYAS are currently looking for specific volunteers for Looked After Children in the Kent area. This is a long term commitment to support a young person in care.
If this is an area you would be keen to give time to please look at the following:-
...or contact Helen Caddock (NYAS IV Coordinator) on 0808 808 1001 (freephone); Moble 07920 183656 or by email -
helen.caddock@nyas.net
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/06/2020 11:32:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 16/06/2020 11:34:00
AVC welcomes diversity!!
"Part of Ashford Volunteer Centre's mission is to inspire more people in Ashford to volunteer. One of the core aims in meeting that mission is to "welcome diversity".
At a time when our world is witnessing a pandemic that makes little distinction who it affects, we are also being made aware of another impact on our world with the continued realisation that racial inequality is still with us.
At this time Ashford Volunteer Centre would like to remind all those who support and follow our work that we believe ALL of us deserve to be treated equally and fairly without prejudice or distrimination."
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/06/2020 12:58:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 09/06/2020 14:56:00
Master potter
"We, who are blended by the Master Potter, come from the kiln of creation in many hues. How can people say one skin is coloured, when each has its own colouration?
What should it matter that one bowl is dark and the other pale, if each is of good design and serves its purpose well?"
Polingaysi Qoyawayma - Hopi Elder
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/06/2020 08:29:00
Volunteers wanted for Ashford music venue
We need enthusiastic, friendly people to help us with our events and we welcome all ages, from 16 to 96! If you like music and the arts, have a few hours to spare, perhaps you could join our team?
Each year we host over 50 events at St Mary's Church and Ashford Bandstand and the Revelation Stage at Create Festival. Volunteering is a chance to see and work with rising stars (such as Johnny Flynn and Ezra Furman) as well as established artists (such as Courtney Pine, Martha Wainwright, The Unthanks and many more!). And we don't just host music - you can get involved in comedy, films, theatre, talks and children's events too.
The roles we regularly need are Bar, Stewards, Box Office, Technicians, Admin and Marketing.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 04/06/2020 10:17:00
Volunteer roles at Ashford Mediation Services
Ashford Mediation Service provides a free mediation service to residents of the borough of Ashford experiencing conflict or dispute with others. This varies from issues with neighbours through to disputes within the family, and includes child access.
AMS are currently looking for a range of volunteers to support their crucial work. There are three roles requiring particular skills that they would be interested in talking to people about…
- Those who can help with IT, such as with website but particularly social media and Wordpress. The role would probably require 2-3 hours per week.
- A training and development officer who could help the training support for AMS’s 23 (and growing) mediators and basic skills around CPD approach – building to a new mediators programme.
- A PA/secretary to the Board of Trustees (who would logically be a Trustee too).
If any of these roles seem of interest then why not make contact for a no-obligation chat?
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 03/06/2020 15:18:00
The Power of Youth campaign
The #PowerOfYouth campaign
During this global pandemic, now more than ever we need to work with young people. We need young people alongside us, to respond to this crisis and to build a better future. We are in this together - so we must work together.
Some young people have felt excluded from the conversation on coronavirus. Their appetite and efforts to help others through this crisis - as siblings, friends, carers and volunteers - need to be recognised.
The Power of Youth campaign is a nationwide collaborative effort in response to the pandemic aiming to celebrate young people's contributions, empower more to take positive action and ensure that their voices help shape the future.The Power of Youth campaign starts today, Wednesday, June 2 2020.
Get involved by looking up #PowerOfYouth
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/06/2020 21:09:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 02/06/2020 21:11:00
NHS survey - your thoughts matter
Below is a message from our NHS colleagues...
Dear Kent resident
The NHS across Kent and Medway has risen to the challenge of responding to the initial impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. Clinicians and thousands of support staff have worked tirelessly to care for the most seriously ill whilst maintaining other essential urgent services. Together with our partners we are now planning to restart health services which we have had to pause. The virus is still with us and we need to stay alert to keep further spread as low as possible.
We have launched an
online survey for patients and families so that we can find out about what you think of changes that we had to put in place such as moving many appointments to telephone, video or online consultations. We also want to find out why some people stayed away from NHS services and about your views on appointments being delayed. This will inform what we do next, and how we reassure the public about the safety of NHS services whilst Coronavirus is still around.
Complete the survey now
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 01/06/2020 13:26:00
Thank you to all of our volunteers!
The beginning of June marks national Volunteer Week. Under normal circumstances we would open our doors for tea and cake and celebrate the contribution of our fantastic volunteers, but with social distancing still in force it will have to be a virtual afternoon tea next week!
For now, we would like to extend a very special thank you to our volunteer befrienders (many of whom are continuing to keep in touch with their befriendees by phone or by writing letters); to our wonderful drivers and the office staff who help us run such a vital community car service; and to the many volunteers who have stepped forward to offer their time and resources during the coronavirus pandemic.
A big thank you to each and every one of you from the team at AVC!
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 29/05/2020 09:10:00
Does Breadmaking appeal?
One of our core offers - Time4Ashford (Timebanking) - very much fits into the ethos of the current climate...neighbours helping neighbours.
We highlight this as one of our Timebanking members is offering something that might be of minterest to many as is something that has been seen more of late (remember no flour)
Artisan baker and Timebank member, Arturo, will be running a free on-line bread-making session on Saturday, June 6th 2020, from 4.30-6pm.
It is ideal for people who want to learn how to make simple and quick bakery products.
Arturo says, "The whole family can participate. Only basic ingredients and utensils are required, which are normally found in the kitchen. As it is for beginners, there is no need to knead, raise or bake the dough in the oven. Only a frying pan and a stove is needed."
The aim is to make one bread dough and two products: enriched tortillas, for all kinds of wraps, and bread rolls to combine with sweet and savoury side dishes.
The workshop will likely take place via the Zoom app. This will be open initially for Timebank members but it is hoped there will be spaces to extend the invitation.
If this, or Timebanking generally, is of interest please contact Leah/Sally "the Timebanking Ladies" on
timebanking1@ashfordvc.org.uk for more information
Published by Lee Robinson on 22/05/2020 13:47:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 22/05/2020 13:47:00
One You Q & A Facebook Live
One You Shop in Ashford (Park Mall) remains closed. However, One You Kent service is still processing referrals and offering telephone support.
Facebook Live sessions will commence Tuesday, 26 May 2020 with Q&A sessions at 11am (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays). Join them live on One You Facebook Page. Support for quitting smoking, losing weight or just generally feeling better.
Any queries contact Kathryn Swinney on kathryn.swinney@nhs.net or 07880 275766
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/05/2020 13:10:00
Crisis Project-connect with NHS workers
The Crisis Project is a campaign aimed to raise awareness and take acton, harnessing the positive power of social media. Through this project a small admin team are asking people to connect with our NHS workers by letter. More importantly they are looking for key workers who would value a contact at this difficult time...and beyond.
Please see the link above and/or contact Mya on crisisprojectuk@gmail.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 19/05/2020 10:53:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 19/05/2020 11:02:00
FREE Dance & Pilates classes for over 50's
Ashfordbased Jasmin Vardimon Company has been committed to supporting dance enthusiasts and the wider community during the Covid-19 crisis.
Led by our friendly dance practitioners, we have regualr attendees for our Dance for Vitality (50+), Pilates for Beginners and relaxing evening Breath & Flexibility sessions.
No prior experience is necesary, just comfortable clothing, enough space to move gentlyandaccess to a computer or mobile device.
We invite you to give our classes a try, to be inspired, beat stress and anxiety and above all enjoy dancing!
Our full timetable is available via Zoom on our website, classes are free of charge until the end of May
Published by Lee Robinson on 14/05/2020 10:39:00
Thank you to our funders
We don't say it enough but a HUGE THANK YOU to all of the funders of Ashford Volunteer Centre.
We couldn't do without your help, particularly at this unprecidented time. Thank you!
Without our funders none of our services would be possible - thank you so much!
For a list of all our funders see our page 'Who We Are' on our website.
Published by Beth Peal on 13/05/2020 19:23:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 13/05/2020 19:24:00
Mental health support for young people
As we remain in a period of restriction due to the coronavirus, some young people may be finding the situation particularly difficult to deal with, so we wanted to highlight the support which is available to them and their families…
If a young person or their parents are not sure what support is needed, then they can call the Single Point of Access (SPA) on 0300 123 4496 to talk through what information, advice and support might be appropriate. This is also the number to call if a young person needs urgent mental health support.
For people of all ages needing immediate mental health support, just text the word ‘Kent’ to 85258. This is a new 24/7 text service provided by SHOUT and the Crisis Text Line as part of the Kent and Medway Release the Pressure campaign.
Other services that young people can access directly are:
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 13/05/2020 09:35:00
Active Food Deliveries - Covid-19
Ashford Borough Council are highlighting, through their website, businesses in the borough of Ashford who are offering food delivery services.
Through the link below you are able to utilise filters on a map to search by food type or area of the borough.
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/05/2020 11:43:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 05/05/2020 11:43:00
Separated Families questionnaire
In conjunction with a number of charities Dads Unlimited have designed a quick (12 question) survey to understand how separated families are doing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please share this survey in order that Dads Unlimited and others can help further.
The survey is completely anonymous.
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/05/2020 15:39:00
Newsletter from the Mayor of Ashford
Here is a newsletter from the Mayor of Ashford, Councillor Jenny Webb.
Ashford Volunteer Centre have been working tirelessly to support Ashford Borough Council and the local voluntary groups and individuals, in the midst of the Coronavirus crisis. We thank the Mayor of Ashford for mentioning us in her blog, for the recognition of our hard work and dedication in reaching out to our communities.
We have a fantastic team here at Ashford Volunteer Centre and will continue to work together to achieve a greater sense of community spirit.
Please feel free to read Councillor Jenny Webb's blog:-
Published by Leah Rivett on 24/04/2020 10:24:00
Collecting prescriptions
There is some updated information available for when arranging for someone else to collect prescription during he coronavirus pandemic.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/04/2020 16:01:00
British Red Cross mobility aids
The British Red Cross would like to highlight that, during the current COVID19 climate, that their regional team with continue delivering mobility aid services, including support to hospital discharges and home deliveries of equipment. Durng this time some of the offices will remain closed or operating reduced opening hours.
Clients can still hire wheelchairs and toileting items to be delivered to their home.
or telephone 0300 456 1914 (and if prompted select option 2)
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 13:34:00
Ashford Mediation need trained mediators
Ashford Mediation Service are still working and offering a "virtual" support service. They are currently working on one-third capacity but not in a position to train more mediators at this time.
If you are a trained mediator Ian Redding would be pleased to hear from you - info@ashfordmediation.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 11:31:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 11:31:00
Ashford Borough Council support team
Ashford Borough Council have set up a new Support Team in this unique and troubling environment.
The new team is to assist vulnerable people within our borough, or those that are calling for any help required.
As from today, if you receive any request for help or need assistance, please email the details to :
help@ashford.gov.ukor call 01233 331111 and then press 4.
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 11:24:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 11:26:00
British Red Cross NEED volunteers
Following the recent call for volunteers the support generated for the NHS has been staggering. Whilst the NHS volunteer recruit system works its way through the offer we have been asked to focus volunteer support to the British Red Cross.
The British Red Cros are asking for people to register their interest in being emergency volunteers to help with the Coronavirus environment. The Red Cross contact is
www.redcross.org.uk/kind
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 11:20:00
Free things to do - Ashford Art Centre
Ashford Art Centre have created a virtual classroom for anyone looking for free and creative things to do.
There are scheduled activites for every Friday. Then activities include Art (no experience or special equipment required), a bit of literature etc. It is calming, connecting, creatve and FREE
The link to the classroom is:-
The class code is 3bivfe2
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/04/2020 10:43:00
Support for the vulnerable
In what are unprecedented times we can all help by looking out for the more vulnerable in our communities.
Below is the link to the government online register for people to register themselves, or others they are concerned about who are extremely vulnerable:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable
Take care of yourself and others!
Published by Lee Robinson on 26/03/2020 12:20:00
Hospital site support needed
COVID - 19 response volunteers needed - NHS East Kent Hospitals University - NHS Foundation Trust
In addition to the wider community call for support for the NHS there is a need to support in our hospitals themselves. If the role below interests you and/or you want to help please contact Mandy Carliell, Head of Patient & Public Involvement on mandy.carliell@nhs.net
Description of Tasks:
* Collecting and delivering Pharmacy drugs to and from wards and departments (no contact with patients)
* Collecting and delivering Pathology items to and from wards and departments (no contact with patients)
* Collecting and delivering wheelchairs to and from wards and departments (no contact with patients)
* Replenishing bstock
* Admin support
* Other ad-hoc duties
Skills mrequired: Physically fit, Good communication skills, Compassion. Patience. Full training and support will be given.
Thank you for your support in these unprecedented times. mandy.carliell@nhs.net.
Published by Lee Robinson on 26/03/2020 10:07:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 26/03/2020 11:59:00
Volunteer drivers for lunchtime meal deliveries
Due to a massive extra demand for Age UK's meals on wheels service, they are looking for drivers who can spare a few hours over the lunchtime period to distribute meals to the elderly - those who are unable to leave their own homes or do their own shopping. For more details or to volunteer your help, please contact Louise on 01233 668765 or email
mfo@ageukashford.org.uk
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 25/03/2020 14:56:00
Volunteering with the NHS
As you will have heard and read there is a call for volunteers to support the NHS in this time of need.
What is the NHS Volunteer campaign? Tne NHS Volunteer campaign is a new initiative which looks to help the 1.5 million Britons with underlying medical conditions who have been asked to stay at home.
What will an NHS Volunteer do?
They will be carrying out "simple but vital" tasks, including driving patients to appointments, delivering medicines from pharmacies, bringing people from hosptital, and making phone calls to check in on people isolating at home. The NHS stresses "your safety is our priority", and that most tasks can be done remotely.
Who can become an NHS Volunteer?
Anyone who is 18 or over, fit and well and with no symptoms of coronavirus, can become a volunteer. People who belong to high-risk groups, such as those who have underlying medical conditions, are pregnant, or over 70, will also be able to offer support via phone.
Patient transport drivers will require an enhanced DBS check before starting voluntary work.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up to become an NHS Volunteer Responder at goodsamapp.org/NHS
Published by Lee Robinson on 25/03/2020 11:01:00
Help us to help others...
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/03/2020 15:12:00
Take care and follow the guidelines
It is important at this difficult time that we protect all by following updated guidelines.
We can "stick together, by staying apart"
* Stay at home - no unnecessary journeys or social contact
* Only leave home for essential shopping or medical needs
* or...one form of exercise per day
* or...travelling to work if absolutely necessary
* Public gatherings of more than two people are banned - excluding people you live with
* Police can fine you if you don't follow the rules
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/03/2020 09:08:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 24/03/2020 09:16:00
DWP updates
Below
is a link to the latest update on changes to support those affected by coronavirus
Published by Lee Robinson on 23/03/2020 15:54:00
Job Centre closures
The most recent changes form the JobCentre point-of-view are as follows:-
"people receiving benefits do not have to attend JobCentre appointments for 3 months, starting from Thursday, March 19 2020. People will continue to recdeive their benefits as normal but all requirements to attend the Jobcentre are suspended"
People can still make applications for benefits online if they are eligible
Published by Lee Robinson on 20/03/2020 11:43:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 20/03/2020 11:52:00
Cinnamon Trust need volunteers
Cinnamon Trust are a UK charity providing support for the elderly and terminally ill with their pets. At this difficult and isolating time there is even more need for communities to support the more vulnerable.
New safety guidelines are in place to support both volunteers and those being supported.
Published by Lee Robinson on 19/03/2020 08:22:00
Helping where we can
As the coronavirus situation changes, almost on a daily basis, the Ashford Volunteer Centre team are endeavouring to help where we can. We are working closely with Ashford Borough Council on the wider borough situation but as much as we can help coordinate the links with support agencies we may not be able to support the many caring local support initiatives that are developing.
We would encourage localised, neighbourly support to ensure those most vulnerable are helped during these unique and difficult times.
Help Postcards are available on-line but we can forward to you if you need.
We anticipate providing weekly updates to ensure we can support as the situation changes.
We are conscious that there will be unscrupulous people out there taking advantage of the current environment but we feel the far greater good will prevail.
From the team at Ashford Volunteer Centre we are genuinely thinking of you all. Do take care during these difficult times and if you are aware of localised initiatives do let us know so we can monitor and share where relevant.
Published by Lee Robinson on 18/03/2020 12:33:00
Blossoms of Hope Admin Volunteer
Blossoms of Hope are a local charity whose role is to support adults with mental health difficulties. The charity now has 3 sites and seeks volunteer(s) to help with the increasing workload that comes with their growth.
If you feel you may be able to help (have a look at their work on Facebook...https://en-gb.facebook.com/BlossomsOfHopeGardens/) please contact Jacqueline Roake on blossomsofhope@hotmail.com or by mobile - 07706 708272.
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/03/2020 16:41:00
Find a Voice Accountancy Volunteer
Find a Voice supports people of all ages who have severe speech, language and communication needs by providing access to life enhancing advice, equipment and training.
The charity is currently looking for someone with accountancy experience and specifically working with Sage.
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/03/2020 13:47:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 17/03/2020 13:47:00
Be an IT buddy
Ashford Gateway are looking, through their Kent Digital Inclusion/Time2Give programme, competent people to become IT buddies.
Volunteers will help library initiatives and their ysers to build their confidence to access and use online services, by developing their experience using the internet, and introducing them to tools created by the University of Kent.
A DBS will be requested and the criteria is for volunteers 16+
For more information contact
libraryvolunteers@kent.gov.uk or 03000 416996. Alternatively contact Caroline Williams on 03000 421 986 (caroline.williams2@kent.gov.uk) and she can forward an information pack.
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/03/2020 14:42:00
Be a Plastic-Free Hero
Plastic Free Ashford are looking for like-minded volunteers to help us canvassing the High street to sign up local businesses to their cause. Toolkit and support from the group will be of course provided.
Who we are
Plastic Free Ashford is a volunteer group run by local people with a shared passion. We are associated with the UK-wide campaign from
Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) to tackle single-use plastic in UK towns and communities. In order to achieve official ‘SAS Plastic-Free Community’ status for Ashford we need:
- local businesses to pledge to switch at least three single-use plastics to sustainable alternatives
- a network of supporting community allies from schools and churches to sports and social groups
- an ongoing schedule of communal events
Our 2020 plastic-free pledge
There is growing concern over the impact that society has on the environment, particularly regarding the widespread and popular use of single-use plastics.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/03/2020 16:48:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 03/03/2020 16:49:00
Students wanting accountancy experience
We have been approached by 6 “accountancy and business” students to look for experience in a relevant office environment. They are looking to understand the work environment and hopefully put some of their course learnings into practice. Ideally, students would like to help with invoicing and basic double-entry bookkeeping. Students have generally not used a computerised accounting system so any experience along these lines might be a bonus.
What a great opportunity to help some of our local talent – and who knows where the links will go! Ideally students are looking for an opportunity from April 20 through to May 1 2020.
If you can help please feel free to contact Paul Waine at Ashford College on
paulwaine@ashfordac.uk or 01732 372941.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/03/2020 09:17:00
Into the Wild woodland project
The March Wood Project CIC help people "achieve and develop through nature".
The "Into the Wild" initiative is a 12 week programme looking at all areas of woodland management and conservation - as well as fire lighting techniques, foraging & camp cooking and natural shelters.
It is anticipated that the course will start early Aptil 2020.
The course is aimed at adults with mental health and isolation issues. The project would also welcome ex-servicemen.
The programme is a 12 week initiative running on Tuesday, 1pm - 3pm - with a mini bus pick u from the Gateway Plus in Ashford.
For further information on how to access and course acceptance/criteria please email info@marchwoodproject.com or call 07909 031034.
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/03/2020 12:58:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 03/03/2020 08:20:00
Ashford Interfaith Walk & Environment day
The Ashford Interfaith group is delighted to confirm its first Interfaith Walk in AShford. This newly formed group has decided the theme for this first walk will be a celebration of World Environment Day and members will talk about the work they are doing for the environment. There will also be a collections at the start for the Ashford Food Bank.
Wednesday, June 3 2020
6pm - 7pm
From St Mary the Virgin, Ashford Town Centre to the Ashford Mosque.
FREE light refreshments at start & finish
For more information contact Maria on 07739 040916
Published by Lee Robinson on 02/03/2020 09:21:00
Volunteer tours for Fareshare / Foodbank
Fareshare Ashford (Foodbank) are offering site tours for those who mighht be interested in volunteering to support their scheme.
They now providing volunteer tours as follows:
Thursday 5th March 10am
Thursday 12th March 10am
Thursday 19th March 10am
Thursday 26th March 10am
They are currently particularly in need of drivers and porters to go on their van and help with the deliveries. They are also looking for people to help out in the warehouse on a daily basis with picking and packing the deliveries, and doing stock sorting.
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/03/2020 17:39:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 01/03/2020 17:39:00
Bright Future courses (Harlow College)
Bright Future are running a number of longer term courses locally including:-
* SIA Door Supervision
* Construction Skills Certification (CSCS) & Skills for Construction
* Moving On (independent living)
* Fresh Start
* Customer Service
* Hospitality
* Working in the Retail Industry
* Mental Wellbeing
There are two sessions in Ashford soon...
2nd March 2020 – Fresh Start/ Digital Skills/ Social Media
16th April 2020 – SIA Door Supervision
(or 01279 868159)
Published by Lee Robinson on 24/02/2020 11:24:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 24/02/2020 12:03:00
Volunteers needed for monthly coffee morning
Are you organised, reliable, and looking for a rewarding volunteering opportunity in the Ashford area?
The KAB Ashford Coffee Morning requires one or two new volunteers to help at their group in supportive roles. They are particularly looking for a new person to eventually take over the running of the club, but welcome anyone who may be interested in supporting them.
The club meets once a month on a Wednesday morning in Ashford, and benefits its visually impaired members by way of peer support and a place to socialise.
What would be beneficial but not necessary is someone who has an understanding of visual impairment and a natural empathy, though training and support will be given. It is a very rewarding role, and a fantastic opportunity to both make new friends and make a real difference in the local community.
For more information on this opportunity or the club please contact Madeleine Gray on 01227 763366 or on
madeleine.gray@kab.org.uk
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 18/02/2020 09:56:00
Macmillan cancer support volunteers
Macmillan Crossroads Care Kent & Medway Volunteer Service are in constant need of volunteers.
As a volunteer you could:-
* offer a listerning ear or just be there for someone who needs to talk
* Make someone's day by doing some light housework or gardening
* Make a big difference b helping with a little bit of shopping
* Support someone to get to their healthcare appointment
* Help signpost someone to other helpful organisations
The service helps people living with cancer, and their carers, by providing practical and emotional support and companionship.
Could this be for you?
Call 0345 095 6701 or enquiries.macmillan@crossroadskent.org
Direct local contact can be made to Samantha West on 0345 095 6701 option 3. sam.macmillan@crossroadskent.org
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/02/2020 10:16:00
Community Driving School Murder Mystery
The Community Driving School are hosting a Murder Mystery fund raising event on Sunday 1st March 2020.
If you can’t be there, check out the sponsorship opportunities where you can have marketing materials to be distributed amongst the guests.
If you are unable to be part of this, please do circulate this amongst your friends, clients and associates.
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/02/2020 08:56:00
Office Volunteers for our Transport scheme
The Volunteer Transport scheme at Ashford Volunteer Centre provides a critical service to those most at need in the Ashford Borough.
The car service is a non-profit making service where volunteer drivers kindly offer their time and cars to support those members of the community who, due to various life concerns, are unable to use other forms of transport.
In order to ensure that the service runs effectively we are fortunate to have both volunteer drivers and volunteer office workers who support the service during the office opening hours (Monday to Friday, 09.30 – 14.30).
Due to many volunteers moving on we have the need for new volunteers in our office. If you have administration experience, would like to gain some, would enjoy a busy office environment and have a couple of hours available we would like to hear from you.
If you would like a no obligation conversation contact Lindsay on 01233 665535 or send an email on contact@ashfordvc.org.uk.
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/02/2020 12:59:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 06/02/2020 13:00:00
Clarion Housing opportunities - Tonbridge
Clarion Futures is a charitable foundation of Clarion housing, delivering one of the country’s largest social investment programmes. We want to help people to develop their futures and maximise the opportunities available to them. Our mission is to provide them with the tools and support they need to overcome their challenges, transforming lives and communities for the better.
Our volunteers support vulnerable groups in society including people with complex needs, young women in recovery from addiction, people with mental health difficulties, people with learning disabilities, older people, vulnerable families and ex-offenders.
We are currently looking for volunteers to work with the elderly in Tonbridge with...
* Gentle Exercise
* Sports & Leisure
* Book Group
Interested and willing to travel to Tonbridge (expenses paid)? Call 0300 333 6712 or email volunteering@clarionhg.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/02/2020 12:23:00
Rack Mount Equipment Cabinet
Ashford Volunteer Centre have recently had a much needed IT
upgrade. As a result we have a redundant Rack Mount Equipment Cabinet (see
attached). Understand these are expensive to buy. If anyone has a need, or
knows someone who does, please let us know. 01233 665535. Contact@ashfordvc.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 31/01/2020 11:25:00
Childcare volunteers needed at Concept
Concept Training are currently looking for a volunteer to work alongside one of their tutors on a Tuesday and Wednesday to support with childcare, whilst a group of mums attend a class.
There is currently a member of staff dedicated looking after the children but support is needed to provide a better experience for the children.
Concept Training are not looking for specific qualifications for this role but an aptitude and patience for working with children is clearly an advantage. Equally if this is a career target for you it may provide great experience for you and your CV.
Concept are based at:-
Unit 1 and 2 Eden Business Park, South Stour Avenue, Ashford, Kent TN23 7RS
web: www.concepttraining.co.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 28/01/2020 13:28:00
Dogs Trust Freedom Project - Volunteers needed
The Dogs Trust Freedom Project is a temporary dog fostering service for dogs belonging to people fleeing domestic abuse. The project is looking for dedicated foster carers to care for dogs in their own homes. The ultimate aim of the project is to reunite owners with their dogs once they are safely rehoused. Our carers are integral to that process by offering a safe and secure environment for their beloved pet until that time comes. The Freedom Project covers all costs and provides all food/equipment. Placements last between 6 – 9 months. Carers will be supported by staff throughout the placement.”
Interested? Contact Rebecca Philpott, Freedom Project Assistant at Rebecca.Philpott@dogstrust.org.uk
Visit our website at http://www.dogstrust.org.uk
or call us on: 0800 298 9199
Published by Lee Robinson on 27/01/2020 11:16:00
Modified by Lindsay Wratten on 27/01/2020 11:27:00
Volunteer in retail - Hospice of Hope
Hospice of Hope charity shop in New Rents, Ashford (TN23 1JH) have a volunteer vacancy. They are particularly looking for someone interested in the retail sector.
The team will offer training in areas such as merchandising, till work, shop floor, sorting, decoding etc.
Thkis would be a great opportunity for someone interested in developing skills/career in retail as well as building general confidence.
Interested? Contact the Branch Manager, Debbie Fort, on ashford@hospicesofhope.co.uk
or on 01233 637737.
Published by Lee Robinson on 27/01/2020 10:16:00
Modified by Lindsay Wratten on 27/01/2020 11:32:00
Help keep our town tidy
Litter is unfortunately a perennial problem, and we all know that apart from looking unsightly it can cause problems for wildlife. That’s why the Willesborough Wombles are looking to recruit more volunteers and set up similar groups in other parts of the town. If you’re interested in forming a group or joining one of their organised litter-picks, please contact Cllr Steve Campkin - Steve.Campkin@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/01/2020 13:06:00
Calling budding gardeners in Willesborough
There are many pockets of community land in Willesborough which could benefit from a bit of TLC. So if you’re handy with the pruning shears, like to get stuck in to the weeding or simply want to get some fresh air and exercise, contact Cllr Steve Campkin to find out when they next meet up – Steve.Campkin@ashford.gov.uk
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/01/2020 13:04:00
Singing for Well being volunteers
The Pilgrims Hospice have a volunteer opportunity at the Ashford Hospice within their Wellbeing Services. They are basically looking for a musician who may have some time on a Friday morning to play an instrument to accompany patients and carers at a “Singing for Wellbeing” session. Initially, it’s a pilot for 8 weeks, but if it’s successful, it will continue and may also be taken up at the other two hospice sites. Attached is the specific role description.
If anyone interested wants to find out more about the role, they should email Leanne Clark, Wellbeing Practitioner at
Leanne.clark@pilgrimshospices.org, leaving some contact details and she will give a call to chat it through.
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/01/2020 12:51:00
Young Secret Volunteer Shoppers Forum
The Prince's Responsible Business Network (Busines in the Community) are looking for young volunteers to be involved in fun mystery shopper event. They are looking for young people (16-24) who would be interested in taking part.
You'll be invited to a two hour session where you will look at live websites.
How to get involved...the next workshop is on Monday, 27 January 2020 (10am - 12.30pm). It will be help at Heathrow Employment & Skills Academy, Newall Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW6 2AP. Some refreshments on the day.
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/01/2020 11:12:00
Volunteer with Homestart supporting families
Homestart Ashford & District support families in the borough by utilising a dedicated band of volunteers to increase families confidence and independence by:-
- Receiving home visits to offer support, friendship and practical assistance.
- Being reassured that their problems are not unusual or unique.
- Feeling enabled to develop their confidence, strengths and emotional well-being.
- Enjoying the fun and pleasures of family life.
Want to find out how you might help?
The Homestart team are hosting a “Cuppa & Cake” event at Kingsnorth Community Café (TN23 3NZ) on January 22 2020 (12.30pm – 2.30pm).
Come along and find out about volunteering opportunities with Home-Start Ashford & District. Meet some present volunteers whilst enjoying a cuppa and cake.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/01/2020 16:47:00
Volunteer for History performance
Ashford Revelation are hosting a performance of a Ticket to Ride…highlighting Ashford’s railway history. The production crew are looking for volunteers to support performances.
For the performance they require Stewards to help audiences, when they move from venue to venue, and, also to be on hand when we are stationary at a venue. Ashford Revelation has its own volunteers the performance needs its own volunteers specifically to help guide and direxct the uadience at different locations.
Useful information:
* All stewards will be briefed & receive a copy of the Risk Assessment for the event.
* The Company will be covered by public liability for this show
There will be 6 professional actors, a professional stage manager, an assistant stage manager & a tech operator for the projectors. There are also 6 community choirs working with us on the project.
If you require further information, or would like to apply, contact Stephen Israel, Joint Artistic Director from the company on
stephen@thecompanyuk.com - or by mobile on 07712 650568.
Published by Lee Robinson on 06/01/2020 10:52:00
Emergency first aid at work course
Ashford Volunteer Centre is hosting a FREE Adult Ed/Response “Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work” course on Tuesday, February 11th 2020.
EFAW courses are recommended for first aiders in workplaces with lower risks. Ideal for smaller workplaces for those who want to take charge in the event of an illness or accident
Areas covered:
Basic life-saving first aid
Workplace health & safety regulations
Managing incidents.
Priorities of first aid
Treatment of an unconscious casualty
Managing a choking incident
Shock
Resuscitation
Bleeding and minor injuries
No formal qualifications are required.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/12/2019 12:06:00
Skills for volunteers workshop
Find your 'genius'!
Volunteering is an excellent way of developing new skills and using existing ones, as well as a fun way of meeting new people.
It can also be a stepping-stone back into employment.
Ashford Volunteer Centre, in partnership with Response, believes that volunteering should be open to all, but recognises that some people may need a little extra help to get started. It is therefore offering FREE training with lunch and refreshments included.
Skills for Volunteers workshop: Ashford Volunteer Centre - Wednesday, January 22 - 9.30am-2.30pm
Places are limited so early application is recommended.
This course is open to anyone over 19 but may be particularly helpful to the following groups:
Unemployed or low waged people 19+; adults with low skills not engaged in learning
Those in receipt of various benefits; those living in rural areas (travel expenses can be paid)
Women wanting to return to work; people who have never volunteered before.
No formal qualifications are required.
For more information please contact Lee Robinson on 01233 665535 or via email on lee.robinson@ashfordvc.org.uk. To ensure courses are suitably attended we will ask for potential attendees to confirm their place by completing an application form.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 24/12/2019 11:13:00
British Heart Foundation Volunteers needed
The British Heart Foundation are calling for volunteers to support them at their BHF Big Collection at various Tesco stores across the UK on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th February? They are looking for volunteers for quite a few Tescos stores across Kent including Crooksfoot, Ashford and Ashford Park Farm.
Raise funds and put the spotlight on research. Bring your shining smile and join their weekend-long fundraising blockbuster in Tesco stores across the country. We need cash collecting, bucket brandishing stars like you to make this very special weekend a smash-hit!
Sign up to give 2 hours of time as a volunteer collector: bhf.org.uk/heartstars
For more information contact
Heather Carroll, Groups and Volunteering Manager, British Heart Foundation on 07384 464 563 or
carrollh@bhf.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 16/12/2019 11:22:00
Kent Autistic Trust
The Kent Autistic Trust provide local support groups for adults with autism. Through these groups we can offer much needed information and support for anyone affected by autism. The groups give adult with autism the chance to meet and talk with others who share and understand their situation.
Being a group support assistant can be incredibly rewarding. Besides helping others and offering much needed support in your community, it enables you to become more involved with The Kent Autistic Trust’s Family Support activities. Local support groups can offer much needed information and support for autistic adults. The groups gives autistic adults a chance to meet and talk with others who understand their situation.
You do need to devote a few hours a month to facilitate and administrate the group. If you would like to find out more about the role, please either call 01634 405164 or email Emilymay@kentautistic.com
Published by Lee Robinson on 12/12/2019 10:35:00
Modified by Lindsay Wratten on 12/12/2019 12:28:00
Ashford Museum Administration volunteer roles
Ashford Museum has administrative volunteer posts. The role has been split into four roles - participating in the Wheels of Time Scheme.
The roles of Meetings Officer and Membership Officer remain vacant.
The Meeting Officer assist the organisation and minutes of General Meetings and Core Group Meetings. The Core Group generally meet four times per year, in February, June, September and November. The total estimated commitment is c. 62 h per year
The Membership Officer supports maintenance of the Scheme member contacts list.
The role requires approximately 2 hours per month generally with increased activity, registering new sites and updating information for existing sites during the period from October to February requiring an additional 6 h hours per month. The total estimated commitment is c. 54 h per year.
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/12/2019 10:22:00
Imago Telephone Befriending
Imago is a social action charity working across Kent, Medway, East Sussex and London.
We are seeking Telephone Befrienders where our volunteers would attend our Office in Ashford over a couple of hours a week with a list of approximately 5 clients to call.
The aim of the calls is to help a person in need by encouraging and enabling them to become more confident and less lonely and isolated through your conversation and support. You would need to type or write up a short description of the conversation, how they are feeling and note any improvements to enable their progress to be tracked.
There will be a member of staff available to support you if needed and training will be provided. You would be ideal for Telephone Befriending if you have a genuine desire to support people and possess the ability to have fun and to engage in conversation with an older person on a mutual basis, building trust and confidence.
Availability: Thursdays and Fridays between 8.30 am – 5 pm.
References and DBS checks will be carried out for the successful candidate.
Interested?? Contact Kathryn Mincer, Volunteer Coordinator at
Published by Lee Robinson on 09/12/2019 13:53:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 09/12/2019 13:54:00
Versus Arthritus swimmin volunteers
‘Versus Arthritus’ are still looking for more volunteers with a love for water and swimming. The “Swim Champion” Programme through ‘Versus Arthritis’ (and partnered with Swim England) is designed to encourage people with arthritis to participate in swimming and wider aquatic activity to improve their health.
The programme is looking for
- Ambassadors – promote the Swim Champion Programme in your community, encourage people to visit their pool, share the benefits of swimming / aquatic activity
- Stewards – support people with arthritis before and after their pool session, provide peer support with a friendly welcome at the leisure centre, chat about living with arthritis
- Pool Buddy – support people with arthritis in the pool during the session, provide practical support, help to get in/out of the pool, offer encouragement to keep going
Over 10 million people are living with arthritis in the UK. Could you help? Interested? For more information please see attached form or contact “Versus Arthritis” on
volunteering@versusarthritis.org or telephone on 01246 588082
Published by Lee Robinson on 26/11/2019 10:48:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 26/11/2019 10:49:00
FREE Food Safety in Catering Level 2 course
Ashford Volunteer Centre are hosting a Food Safety in Catering – Level 2 course on Wednesday, December 3rd 2019…and it’s FREE (with a free lunch). The session runs from 9.30am (arrival 9.15) – 4.30pm with the potential for a recognised qualification. The course is designed to ensure food handlers are aware of the hazards and controls associated with the types of food they produce.
The course will provide an introduction to…Food Safety: The Law; Food Safety Hazards; Taking Temperatures; Refrigeration, Chilling & Cold holding of foods; Cooking, Hot Holding and Re-heating of foods: Food Handlers; Principles of Safe Storage; Cleaning & Food premises & Equipment. To book your place or for more information contact Lee Robinson on
lee.robinson@ashfordvc.org.uk or Ashford Volunteer Centre on 01233 665535.
Published by Lee Robinson on 25/11/2019 14:40:00
Volunteer Treasurer - Appledore Village Hall
Appledore Village Hall is looking a volunteer treasurer. The role would involve keeping the accounts for the village hall in the village. The village hall currently has 5 Trustees.
The Village Hall has a number of regular activities in the hall including Pilates, tai chi, aerobics and choir. In addition the village hall committee put on other fundraising events such as quiz nights, suppers, harvest festivals etc.
The committee are currently trying to set up internet banking which should improve the role.
Duties involve managing the accounts, receiving and paying out money, preparing profit/loss accounts and balance sheets.
Interested? Contact Lyndsey Jenkins on 07795 220909 or
apc.ljenkins@gmail.com on behalf of the Trustees of Appledore Village Hall.
Published by Lee Robinson on 22/11/2019 10:28:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 22/11/2019 10:29:00
Life drawing
Life drawing at Ashford Volunteer Centre
This informal life drawing group is suitable for all abilities including beginners.
Every Thursday from 2pm-4pm - £10 a session
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 22/11/2019 10:17:00
Stanhope Christmas Family event
Stanhope’s Community Christmas is on Friday, 6 December 3.30pm until 5.30pm
Stanhope Community hub, 67a Otterden Close, Ashford, TN23
The event will be packed with fun activities for the whole family including:
- Santa’s Grotto with a free present for children
- Arts and crafts
- Balloon modelling man
- Hot drinks and refreshments
- Christmas music
- Free Hog Roast
Published by Lee Robinson on 22/11/2019 10:12:00
Lily's Cafe volunteer
Lily’s Community is a not for profit organisation supporting people with learning disabilities and autism into employment and run one (soon to be two) community cafes in Canterbury which provides real work experience for our trainees
They have recently been invited to open a cafe area in The Rainbow Centre in Ashford and receiving referrals for young people. Initially the cafe will only be open on a Wednesday and a Friday.
The café is looking to recruit a volunteer for each day to support the young people in the cafe
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/11/2019 15:52:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 21/11/2019 15:53:00
ESOL course at The Willow Centre
Would you like to...Speak, write and read more English? Make daily life such as talking to doctors, schools, job centres and shop assistants easier? Get help with daily tasks, such as how to fill in forms? Build your confidence and make new friends?
The Willow Cente arre running an ESOL course starting in January 2020. It is free and there will be a creche but numbers are limited so early booking is required. It is open to all adults not just those with children and as mentioned before early booking is required.
If interested...
03000 418800 Or Email: willowcc@kent.gov.uk
Duration: 6 weeks.
Settling-in creche Date: Wednesday 15th January
Time: 9.30am -10.30am
Start date: Wednesday 22nd January
Time: 9.30am - 11.45am
Finish date: Wednesday 4th March
*No session on Wednesday 19th February.
Published by Lee Robinson on 21/11/2019 10:27:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 21/11/2019 10:32:00
Led by the Wild - Whites Wood Farm
Want to help protect and promote the natural environment? Then come this way - we need your help! We are a very friendly bunch of people, passionate about the environment and conservation, and determined to turn our 30 acre site into a haven for wildlife. We meet every Friday morning, 9am-12 midday - all welcome! Email
ali@ledbythewild.co.ukLed by the Wild is a community organisation operating over a stunning 30 acre site, which includes farm, field and woodland in Aldington. We run projects which span across outdoor education as part of forest school, community well-being projects and conservation. We're passionate about protecting and supporting the natural environment and promoting it as a space for well-being and community. Working with Kent Wildlife Trust we created a conservation plan which includes extending our already flourishing community garden, creating a number of specific conservation areas for flora and fauna, and supporting the varied and amazing ecosystem we already have. But to achieve this plan we need more help! Can you help us?
For more details email Ali (above), check out the website or keep up with their news on Facebook.
Published by Lee Robinson on 13/11/2019 12:01:00
Modified by Lindsay Wratten on 13/11/2019 12:42:00
Ashford Vineyard - together at Christmas
Ashford Vineyard runs a number of amazing groups to support the people of Ashford.
This is particularly the case over the festive period and the team at Vineyard are keen for volunteers to help in their Hamper collection on December 7th. This will include either collecting food at Sainsburys or helping pack support hampers at the Ashford Vineyard warehouse.
If interested sign up via the following links…
Ashford Vineyard are also running a Christmas Carol event on December 15th (4pm – 7pm) and a Christmas eve “chill” on the 24th (23.30).
Finally they are running a Christmas day meal if people would like to be in company. Anyone interested would need to contact Maddy on
maddy@ashfordvineyard.org.
Published by Lee Robinson on 12/11/2019 14:18:00
Kent Youth County Council
Ashford Volunteer Centre recently attended a Voluntary Sector and Network meeting at Kent County Council headquarters, Sessions House, Maidstone.
One of the individuals met was a young lady called Millie who is part of the Youth council. Kent Youth County Council voices the views and opinions of Kent’s young people.
It helps young people understand the importance of engaging in the democratic process and learn how their vote can make a difference.
Four young people are elected to represent each district in Kent. They are known as memvers. Four deputy members for each area are also elected.
Twelve young people are also elected to community sears.
Each year the new members choose 3 issues to campaign on that are important to young people.
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/11/2019 13:09:00
Touch a New World Buddy - use your IT skills?
Time2Give volunteers help Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives (KLR&A) extend and enrich the services it offers.
Touch a New World (TaNW) Buddies help IT novices at home to build their confidence to access and use library services electronically, by developing their experience of using the internet, and introducing them to email.
Do you think this may be of interest to you? Or you have any questions? Speak to staff at the Ashford Gateway Plus or contact
libraryvolunteers@kent.gov.uk or 03000 416996.
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/11/2019 11:38:00
Ashford Chronic Pain Group AVC attendance
Ashford Volunteer Centre attended the Ashford Chronic Pain Group seminar today (Tuesday, November 5th). It was a very well attended group and provided a great opportunity for us to network with other valuable providers in Ashford.
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/11/2019 14:26:00
Ashford Chronic Pain Group
Ashford Volunteer Centre attended the Ashford Chronic Pain Group seminar today (Tuesday, November 5th). It was a very well attended group and provided a great opportunity for us to network with other valuable providers in Ashford.
People dealing with Chronic Pain on a daily basis often feel lonely, depressed and isolated. This group is well established, as it has been running for 4 years. It is full of life and looks forward to meeting newcomers.
Ashford Chronic Pain Support group was set up to help and support with this issue. The group meet on the first Tuesday of every month at The Riverside Centre. Guest speakers are invited to share information and give informative talks.
Published by Lee Robinson on 05/11/2019 14:17:00
Young Lives Foundation
Young Lives Foundation are a Children's Charity that recruit Volunteers to support young Vulnerable and disadvantaged young people. They are looking for outgoing individuals in Ashford who are able to offer constancy and act a a positive role model to younger people "
If interested please contact Frank Martin, Kent Befriending Coordinator, YLF on 01622 693459 or
frank.martin@ylf.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 01/11/2019 10:26:00
Cancer Research UK shops
Cancer Research UK has always been a volunteer-led organisation, right from our board of trustees to our wonderful shop volunteers. The money raised through our shops last year over £80 million, is a testament to the hard work and talent of our shop teams, but we need to recognise the huge potential that still exists to grow our income. In particular, if we can attract more people into our shops and increase customer spend by maximising the appeal of our offer to local shoppers, we will be well on the way to achieving our targets. But we can only do this with the help of our talented and passionate volunteers.
Contact: Ingrid.willis@cancer.org.uk or 07787 666423
Pop into your nearest shop: Speak to the manager and pick up an application
Published by Lee Robinson on 30/10/2019 11:42:00
Princes Trust - young people willing to help
The Princes
Trust in Ashford have a team of 14 young people with plenty of energy for a
volunteer project as part of their 2019 Programme. Ideally this should the
young people enough work for 3 full days and make a difference to the local
community here in Ashford.Do you have a
project in mind? If so contact John Vinson johnvinson@cxk.org direct to see if your project suits.
Published by Lee Robinson on 29/10/2019 09:07:00
Friends of Victoria Park
The Friends of Victoria Park still have space on their committee for additional members. They are looking for people who would be
able to attend public meetings four times a year and additional monthly evening
committee meetings, with some electronic communication between meetings. They also organise various activities in the park throughout the year. While previous
experience would be great, if you are interested and willing to learn and work
with the existing team, then they would welcome you. f you feel that a position on the committee is not for you, but would like to
help at some of our events e.g. Marshalling, Litter picking etc then please feel free to contact us on secretary@victoriaparkashford.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 29/10/2019 09:00:00
Level 2 - Food Safety in Catering course
There are still spaces on the FREE "Food Safety in Catering" course at Ashford Volunteer Centre on Tuesday, December 3rd 2019.
The course is designed to ensure food handlers are aware of the hazards and controls associated with the types of food they produce...including food safety; the law, hazards, taking temperature, refrigeration, cooking, principles of safe storage, equipment and more...
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/10/2019 16:40:00
"Skills for Volunteers" course
There are still spaces on the FREE "Skills for Volunteers" course at Ashford Volunteer Centre on Wednesday, November 20th 2019.
“Skills for Volunteers”
Lee Robinson, from the Ashford Volunteer Centre, is running FREE introduction to volunteering course – with a difference. The sessions run from 9.30am – 2.30pm (latest)…at Ashford Volunteer Centre on
Wednesday, November 20th 2019
A FREE lunch is also available.
The course looks at what you are good at, like to do and your own individual “genius” - when too often we are told of our deficiencies. It will look at helping restore a volunteering ethic to communities whilst boosting individual’s lives, self-esteem, confidence, experience, cv and more. It’s FREE and it’s FUN.
Regardless of where you are this session will help point you in the right direction through volunteering. Turning what you are good at into helping yourself and others.
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/10/2019 16:35:00
Fit & Fed programme on Stanhope
Stanhope Community Hub are hosting a FREE "Fit & Fed" programme during the October half-term. In partnership with Olympia Boxing the sessions (Monday, 21st - Wednesday, 23rd...11am - 2pm) offer a free healthy lunch.
The event takes place at Stanhope Community Hub, 67A Otterden Close, Stanhope TN23 5TH.
For more information or interested contact:-
Published by Lee Robinson on 17/10/2019 09:11:00
Free digital inclusion event
For many of us, going online to buy things, pay bills or keep in touch with friends and family is second nature. However this is not the case for everyone. In fact 23% of adults in Ashford lack all of the basic digital skills they need.
To try and tackle this, Ashford Borough Council has partnered with Barclays Bank, Ashford Gateway and the One You Shop to host a digital inclusion event to equip those who lack the skills or confidence to get online. Computer and laptops will be provided or people can come along with their smartphone, tablet or laptop and take part.
Wednesday, November 13 at Ashford Gateway, Church Road, Ashford TN23 1AS
10:00 – 12:00 Basic digital skills workshop supported by ABC’s digital champions
13:00 – 14:00 How to stay safe and keep personal data safe on-line workshop hosted by Barclays Bank
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 16/10/2019 14:27:00
Sustrans CycleRoute volunteers for Ashford
Sustrans is looking for
Volunteer Community Route Volunteers in Ashford to help keep the many cycle routes in the best possible condition so that everyone can use them for everyday journeys. Our Champions are active, practical people who may clear some overgrown vegetation, clean signs or report potholes to the council when they do regular checks on their routes. Ashford so many off-road cycle paths and Sustrans need more Volunteers to keep them in tiptop condition.
Published by Lee Robinson on 11/10/2019 15:51:00
Sue Ryder Charity Shop - Volunteers needed
Sue
Ryder is a charity which was founded in 1953 by Sue Ryder, with the creation of
a nursing home in Suffolk, UK. Sue Ryder supports people with complex needs and
life-threatening illnesses across the UK and internationally. Your local Ashford Charity Shop is in need of volunteers to cover
specific shifts. If you think this maybe for you then just pop in for a chat (8
Singleton Shopping Centre, Ashford TN23 5GR) or email Emma Spanton on emma.spanton@suerydercare.org
or call Emma or Samantha Rolfe on 01233 640291.
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/10/2019 13:43:00
World Homeless Day
Ashford Volunteer Centre joined Kareen McDonald, Ashford Church’s Winter Night Shelter Scheme coordinator, and her team at the Beacon Centre in Bank Street, Ashford for an event, supported by Ashford Borough Council, marking World Homeless Day.
This is the start of a series of events over the coming weeks culminating in a “sleep in” at St Mary's Church, Ashford on December 8 2019.
The gathering highlighted the work of all the agencies involved in supporting homeless people.
Published by Lee Robinson on 10/10/2019 13:16:00
Wye Community Farm – exciting opportunities!
Wye Community Farm is a small not-for-profit organisation that brings together a range of small-scale food and craft enterprises to promote sustainability, offer young people an opportunity to experience working in the countryside, and to create jobs. They currently have four volunteer vacancies. For further details, please email info@wyecommunityfarm.org.uk
Fundraiser – are you able to find suitable funding opportunities, put together grant proposals, coordinate fundraising events and attend events to raise awareness of WCF? This is a great opportunity for someone to be closely involved in the workings of the farm!
Communications and advertising coordinator – could you can plan some advertising (on the radio, news media, magazines and social media) that would increase awareness of the farm and attract more volunteers? If so, WCF would love to hear from you!
Events organiser – could you organise and run events such as the harvest festival and bonfire night, and help make our AGM a community-wide event? We’d love to have someone that can help us raise income from these events.
Membership administrator – are you a stickler for detail? Could you manage the farm’s subscriptions and prepare the annual membership accounts and budget? If you’re organised and have some administrative experience, please get in touch.
Published by Lindsay Wratten on 08/10/2019 12:38:00
Environmental Project - Volunteers needed
The new, start up social enterprise, Geeco, are currently recruiting volunteers for an up and coming environmental project that starts, January 2020.
http://geeco.elementfx.com/
The project involves making profit from selling ecoscripts using the accumulated funds to support local ecotourism.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/10/2019 13:20:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 08/10/2019 11:39:00
Free Health Checks
The NHS are offering FREE Health Checks to any organisations staff members and their clients. The NHS Health Check programme aims to prevent cardiovascular disease such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes and some forms of dementia.The NHS Health Check programme aims to prevent cardiovascular disease such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes and some forms of dementia.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/10/2019 10:46:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 11/10/2019 13:26:00
Volunteer Centre support Guide Dogs Quiz
Lee Robinson, Volunteer Services Coordinator, devised the questions and was quiz-master at the Guide Dogs annula quiz at Lympne Village Hall on Saturday (5th).
Anne Chapman, volunteer for Guide Dogs, had to turn teams away as the hall and quiz were a sell out.
The event was in aid of guide dogs – specifically aimed at raising funds during National Guide Dogs Week.
The evening was a huge success with over £800 raised.
Published by Lee Robinson on 07/10/2019 10:37:00
Citizens Advice Quiz Night
Friends of Ashford Borough Citizens Advice are having a quiz evening (some great prizes) on Oct 19th Sat. 7.00pm at St Michael's, Tenterden Futher details from us on 01233 626185
Published by Lee Robinson on 04/10/2019 09:07:00
ESOL - English classes
If you are interested in improving your English, know someone else who might be interested or work with someone who might benefit from improving The Willow Centre are running a Wednesday course.
The course is aimed at building confidence through every day English language improvement. The course starts on Wednesday, 22nd January 2020 and runs for 6 weeks (9.30am – 12pm). For more information call 03000 418800.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:50:00
Ashford Lions Quiz
Ashford Lions are hosting their next charity quiz to raise funds for local charities. The quiz takes place on Saturday 9th November at the Swan Centre, doors open at 7 pm for a 7:30 start. Suggested entry is £3 per person. There will be a cash bar and raffle as part of this charity fundraiser. Teams are very welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Team of up to 8 maximum.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:47:00
Modified by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:48:00
Refugee support volunteers needed
Kent Refugee Action Network works with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children aged 15-18yrs and young people. They run ESOL classes at Ashford Baptist Church on Mondays and Thursdays 9.30am-1.30pm and volunteers are needed to help the teachers with 1:1 and group support. They also need volunteers on a Monday evening to help support our young people at football sessions held at Pitchside on Monday evenings from 7-9pm.
If interested and/or you think you can help please contact Gwen Wilkinson (KRAN Volunteer &Safeguarding Manager) on 07793 586299 or
gwen@kran.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:46:00
Fareshare - Foodbank drivers needed
The Foodbank are looking to expand their service offer by adding new volunteer drivers to their operation at Fareshare Kent. Recently they have expanded to using 3 vans on a daily basis instead of 2. If you think you can help please contact Emily White on 01233 500477 or
emmawhite@faresharekent.org.uk
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:45:00
Wye Community Farm - Volunteers needed
There are a number of opportunities arisen at the Woolshed – part of Wye Community Farm.
They need the following volunteers:-
An administration assistant specifically supporting the management of the Woolshed Events Calendar and its promotion.
Someone with experience and willing to help in funding grants application
A Care Support volunteer on a Monday and/or Thursday to support some of the Woolsheds more vulnerable volunteers and aid them in settling them into their activities.
Finally Fleece processors!! The Woolshed needs volunteers to sort and grade raw sheep fleece, manage it through its washing stages, pick the fibres open and much more…a unique opportunity for the right candidates.
Interested in knowing more about local rural life? For more information contact Della on 07557 040805 or via email on
della@spinningearth.co.uk.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:44:00
Pilgrims Hospice Shop - Help needed
The Pilgrims Hospice
Shop in town is in desperate need of volunteers. The Ashford General shop in
Castle Street needs volunteers across Monday to Saturday. The shop is ideally
looking for people who can provide a 2-4 hour shift.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:42:00
Making Miracles - Baby Loss volunteers needed
Making Miracles: (Urgent)
Making Miracles has so far supported over 750 families through the trauma of high risk pregnancies and baby loss. They have grown from small beginnings, to a registered charity with a team of Counsellors, Volunteers, and Fundraisers, working across all of Kent.
They are currently getting ready for our biggest ever fundraising appeal - the challenge is to raise £7800 in October, enough money to support 31 local families. The Making Miracles team are arranging a number of new fundraising events and we need volunteer help.
They are looking for volunteers for donation collection at Tesco Extra in Ashford on October 12th (1-3pm or 2-4pm) at any of the following events we would be extremely grateful
This type of collection, especially in busy periods, can raise making miracles hundreds of pounds per hour. No specialist training is required, we just need a smile and hand out our information to shoppers - whilst hopefully collecting donations.
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:37:00
Mason Mile:Participants-Saturday (5th)
The Mason Mile: (Urgent)
Very short notice but this Saturday sees the launch of Mason Mile in our area. This is a family focused event to bring about behaviour change and challenge us all to do a mile a day, your own way. Be it walking, scooting or running as long as you do a mile a day we are getting outside and active. So if you are free on Saturday (5th) morning between 10 – 2 then please pop along to Victoria Park where there will be organised mile walks every 30 minutes along with inflatables and free give away.
If you think you could volunteer then contact Claire Norman (Ashford Borough Council - Active Communities Partnership Officer) on 07717 806718 or 01233 330247
Published by Lee Robinson on 03/10/2019 16:36:00
Macmillan Coffee Morning - Thank you !
Thank you all for your generous support of our Macmillan Coffee Morning on 27 September 2019 at Ashford Volunteer Centre.
We are feeling super proud as our Coffee Morning raised £110 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Thank you!
Published by Beth Peal on 03/10/2019 14:52:00
Chilham Parish Recreation Ground Trust
Chilham Parish Recreation Ground Trust, (CPRGT) runs and maintains various activities and facilities in the village of Chilham. There’s a Sports Hall complete with showers, toilets, kitchen and Committee Room. The hall is used for various sporting activities and is heated. Outside there’s a football pitch, MUGA pitch, Children’s Play Area and three flood lit tennis courts.
They are a thriving community but totally reliant upon individuals giving of their time to run these excellent facilities. If you are interested in being involved do get involved with the trust…maybe starting up a new group. They are particularly interested in hearing from women as their Committee is currently comprised almost entirely of men. They strive to be both open and welcoming.
Contact Julian Rankin, Chair CPRGT on 01227 751070
Published by Beth Peal on 11/09/2019 09:23:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 13/09/2019 13:22:00
Family Action seeking FamilyLine Volunteers
Family Action are seeking FamilyLine Volunteers, homebased, to provide free support and guidance on all aspects of family life to parents and carers. The service provides Helpline, Befriending and counselling support via telephone, email and text messaging. The service is offered free. If interested please contact the team on 0808 802 6666; email
familyline@family-action.org.uk and/or visit
www.family-action.org.uk/familyline
Published by Beth Peal on 10/09/2019 10:22:00
Ashford Borough Council
Ashford Borough Council are looking
for a volunteer to support the Employment & Skills Advisor at Ashford’s Job
Club. The role is required for the session that takes place on Fridays (9.30am
– 1.00pm) at Ashford Gateway, 9.30am – 1pm.
The drop-in Job Club is run in the IT suite at
the Gateway. The Employment & Skills advisor is available to help members
of the public to get online, and give advice & support around job
searching.
It’s a friendly & informal environment.
If you are comfortable around computers and
navigating the internet, as well as being comfortable with meeting new
people…you don’t need to have experience in giving careers advice as the
Employment & Skills Advisor takes on this responsibility.
For an informal discussion please contact Vikki
Baker, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23
1PL via email vikki.baker@ashford.gov.uk or phone 01233 330440
Published by charmaine baker on 23/08/2019 12:25:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 10/09/2019 10:19:00
Swim Champion Volunteer for Arthritis
Volunteers are needed as “Swim
Champions” for a new programme through ‘Versus Arthritis’ (and partnered with
Swim England). The programme is designed to encourage people with arthritis to
participate in swimming and wider aquatic
activity to improve their health. Swim Champion Volunteers provide support to
people with arthritis whether before, during, or after being in the water
Over 10 million people are living with arthritis
in the UK. Could you help? Interested? For more information please contact
“Versus Arthritis” on volunteering@versusarthritis.org or telephone on 01246
588082
Published by charmaine baker on 23/08/2019 12:22:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 10/09/2019 10:21:00
Kent Association for The Blind
Kent Association for The Blind supports Visually Impaired People – Having recently partnered with Blind Veterans UK, we have a wide range of volunteering opportunities available. For example, our volunteers help us in many ways, through Befriending, Helping at Clubs & Groups, Driving and Escorting People, Providing Office Support, Fundraising, Helping with our Talking News Service, Public Speaking, Organising Activities & Events and Helping People with Computers. Training and on-going support is available for our volunteers. For more information please contact Susan Williams on 01227 763366 or email:
susan.williams@kab.org.uk
Published by charmaine baker on 23/08/2019 12:18:00
Macmillan Cancer Support Group - Ashford
We run a Cancer Support Group the first friday every month between 10-12 midday at the Volunteer Centre.
The next Macmillan cancer support café is on Friday, September 6, where you can learn about the effect nature has on wellbeing. Come for a drink and a chat, make new friends and access Macmillan support information. There’s no need to book, simply turn up.
Friday, September 6 from 10am-12noon at Berwick House, 8 Elwick Road, Ashford
Published by charmaine baker on 23/08/2019 11:01:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 10/09/2019 10:20:00
Volunteer Week 2018 has arrived
On Friday 1st June Volunteer Week 2018 started.
To start the week off we celebrated with a Volunteer Thank You strawberry tea - with over 50 people attended including Damian Green MP.
A BIG thank you to all our volunteers who make a real difference to people live's across the Borough of Ashford - we couldn't do it without you!
Many thanks to Specsavers in Ashford for sponsoring the event and making it possible - that was brilliant!
Thank you!
Published by Beth Peal on 04/06/2018 12:25:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 04/06/2018 13:02:00
Brave volunteers take the plunge!
The big jump is now done!
Braving the weather, heights, fear of heights and the unknown Lee, Sally and Helen undertook the charity abseil, at St Thomas Place in Maidstone, on 8th April 2018.
The trio successfully raised over £1000 for charity in the process - what a fantastic achievement and thank you!!
Published by Beth Peal on 15/05/2018 09:30:00
Volunteers Week 2018 - coming soon!
Volunteers’ Week is a time to say thank you for the fantastic contribution volunteers make.
During the week, hundreds of events and celebrations take place across the country, saying thank you to volunteers and recognising their invaluable and diverse contribution to the UK.
The campaign was established in 1984 by Volunteering England, which merged with NCVO in 2013. NCVO now leads this UK-wide campaign.
More news about what Ashford Volunteer Centre is planning for Volunteers' Week 2018 is coming soon - watch this space!
Published by Beth Peal on 14/05/2018 17:38:00
Modified by Beth Peal on 14/05/2018 17:42:00
Welcome to our new website!
We are excited to announce that our new website is live!
We have redesigned it with you in mind, streamlining menus, simplifying menus, building a responsive layout for all platforms and providing more information on our services.
We encourage everyone to visit and explore the site, discovering the full range of activities from Ashford Volunteer Centre.
To stay connected on social media, don't forget to follow us on
Twitter or
Facebook
If you have any questions or feedback you would like to share with our team, please do so by filling out the form on our
Contact Us page.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Published by Beth Peal on 14/05/2018 16:28:00
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Vitticeps Ltd