Engage West Somerset

Volunteer Centre Volunteering Opportunities

24th edition 2010 (last updated March 2010)

Can we help you fit in somewhere?

2

AGE CONCERN SOMERSET need Advocacy volunteers

who can help if support is needed to tackle a problem, or

someone is needed to act or speak on behalf of a vulnerable

adult so that opinions are heard. Volunteers help with the

completion of forms, to check entitlements to welfare bene-

fits. You need to have good communications skills, both writ-

ten and verbal and the patience to deal with older people.

Full training and induction provided, plus ongoing support,

and all expenses paid. 18+

AGE CONCERN SOMERSET require volunteers for their

Befriending Service, where they will visit older people ei-

ther in their homes or nursing homes once a week for app. 1

hour, to establish friendships and alleviate feelings of isola-

tion and offer a lifeline to a vulnerable person. 18+

AGE CONCERN want older volunteers to become peer men-

tors and train to become Flexercise Leaders. This is a chair

based activity session and further training may be available.

The project is called Fit as a Fiddle and is aimed at improv-

ing physical and mental health and nutrition in older people,

enhancing their well-being. No age limit

AGE CONCERN SOMERSET need people to offer a toe nail

AGE CONCERN SOMERSET are in need of Safe and Se-

cure Technician volunteers who are able to do basic DIY

skills, and are happy to meet people in their own home and

make them safe and secure and less vulnerable. All ex-

penses paid, support & training given. Very rewarding. 18+

3

BARNARDOS require Outreach Project volunteers, who

aim to reach families who have difficulty in accessing some

services, or who may need help in coping with a crisis. Vol-

unteers will befriend them, give support with the day to

day running of the family. This could involve helping out,

doing some shopping or driving them to the centre. Very

rewarding role. Full training & support given. 18+

BARNARDOS want Volunteer Drivers who will drive fami-

lies and young children to local projects/children centres

from the families home address and return them later. You

will be enabling them to access local projects/children cen-

tres and having fun, which they would otherwise be unable

to do. Very rewarding role. 18+

cutting service for the elderly, either in their own homes

or a clinic, and to help them feel at ease with their feet.

Full training will be given and all expenses paid. 18+

BARNARDOS want Children Centre volunteers to help set

up the rooms where sessions are held, tidy toys up after,

play with the children, give support to the parents and

make refreshments. Situated in Norton Fitzwarren. 16+

BARNARDOS need Play Ranger/Adult Volunteers Mon-

day to Fridays between 4-6 pm in 11 different locations, to

run activities for children 5 and above. You will play a key

role with the team, provide support and advice to children,

young people and families outside play ranger sessions. This

is an exciting opportunity. Training given. 16+

4

BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION SHOP want Stock

preparation volunteers for the mornings, to sort donated

items, prepare them for sale, tagging and steaming. Be part

of a great team and gain experience, training & support

given. Also calling on all book lovers to sort out their book

department. Somebody with book knowledge. 16+

BRITISH RED CROSS also want volunteers to help out in

their Medical Loan depot in Minehead for an hour a day,

where they provide equipment on short term loan to enable

people to lead a more independent life after an illness or

hospital stay. 16+

BLUE VENTURES are in search for marine conservation

volunteers who can travel to Madagascar for a minimum of 3

weeks. Blue ventures aim to manage and conserve local ma-

rine resources for the future. You will stay in beach cabins

close to the village, learn to fish, scuba dive, join in village

life, sail and much more. You will need to pay for your travel

and stay, but experience the trip of a life time. You will gain

marine science and dive training in return. 18+

BRITISH RED CROSS offer a friendly door to door assis-

tance for people who cannot get about easily. Will involve

driving people to an appointment or visit, or even accompany-

ing them on a public transport journey. 17+

BRITISH RED CROSS require help in their Retail shop in

Minehead. This involves sorting, pricing, displaying goods,

cash transactions and assisting customers. 15 +

5

BRITISH RED CROSS want enthusiastic and committed

people to recruit and induct new volunteers, by organising

and running recruitment days across the county. All ex-

penses paid. 17+

BRITISH RED CROSS is looking for volunteers to offer a

Home from Hospital service, helping people in their own

home following an illness or hospital stay. May include hos-

pital pick-ups, shopping, prescription collection and keeping

them company for a couple of hours. 18+

CATS PROTECTION MINEHEAD BRANCH require vari-

ous people to join their group. Volunteers are now needed

to deliver and put up posters, help in the kitchen at cof-

fee mornings and sales, help behind stalls, doing raffles,

etc. They also need an experienced handler to join their

welfare team and people outgoing enough to approach local

shops etc for raffle prizes. Some age limits apply

CANCER RESEARCH SHOP are looking for people to join

their happy group of volunteers, to process goods and as-

sist the public with their purchases, raising money for can-

cer research and having fun and making new friends. 16+

CINNAMON TRUST need volunteers to help elderly or

terminally ill people and their pets, by helping with the day

to day care of the pets, dog walking, fostering or trans-

portation to vets. You can help to keep the pets and own-

ers together. Give as little or as much time as you wish.

Very rewarding opportunity. 16+

6

CONQUEST CENTRE FOR THE DISABLED require volun-

teers to help with the horses, leading and assisting rid-

ers. No experience is needed as full training will be given.

Runs during term time only. No age restrictions.

DULVERTON’S CHILDREN CENTRE are looking for

friendly volunteers who love to read stories and enjoy play-

ing games and interacting with children aged 0-5 years. Or

you might have a skill like painting, that you could teach the

children. No age limit

DULVERTON’S Guildhall Heritage and Art Centre want

friendly volunteers who can spare as little or as much time

to keep their visitor centre open through the season. You

could help with one of the exhibition, the upkeep of the cen-

tre and/or behind the till of their small but lovely gift shop

area. No experience or special skills needed, training and

support where needed. Come and join our friendly team. No

age restrictions

DUNSTER CASTLE seek friendly and enthusiastic Garden-

ers/Garden Guides who enjoy the beautiful gardens and

help visitors to do so too. Be part of a team that creates a

new project and finishes it for all to enjoy. 15+

DUNSTER CASTLE (National Trust) want to attract volun-

teers of all ages and backgrounds to help with a variety of

opportunities. Why not see what they need, for example you

can help as a room steward (full training given) or with

selling vital raffle tickets, help in the shop or why not see

7

If you could be the next Volunteer Recruiter or Volun-

teer Administrator, working with volunteers and castle

staff. Varied age limits, come and find out more

ENGAGE FURNITURE PROJECT want furniture van

drivers who are happy to go out with a drivers mate, to

collect and deliver 2nd hand furniture all over West Som-

erset. You must be physically fit, be able to lift small to

medium sized items of furniture and have a clean driving

licence. You will help to provide a vital and important ser-

vice to our community and help the environment. Basic pa-

perwork to be completed, must be a team player. 18+

ENGAGE FURNITURE PROJECT also want furniture

drivers mates, who will go out on the van and collect and

deliver unwanted, good quality furniture to the community.

You too must be physically fit and like to be part of a

team. 16+

DUNSTER CASTLE are looking for Tour Guides for a va-

riety of tours throughout the year, including basement and

late night Halloween tours. Be part of their active educa-

tion team. Or why not help as an Event volunteer who are

involved in a variety of events, from helping organising to

dressing up. 15+

ENGAGE are looking for Trustees who can help set the

strategic direction and to guide the work of the paid staff

& volunteers who operate the CVS, volunteer centre and

furniture project. 18+

8

ENGAGE want furniture showroom sales person to greet

people when they come through the door and show them

round the furniture store. They also like you to complete ba-

sic paperwork, i.e. receipts, delivery notes, etc. On top of

that, they would need you to tidy the store, move small

items around, tidy up and polish and generally look after the

items. No experience needed as full training can be given.

Would suit outgoing and friendly person who loves to meet

people and is physically fit. 16+

ENGAGE need social car drivers to join their essential so-

cial car scheme, where you will be taking passengers to hos-

pital, doctors appointment, social visits or shopping. You

choose the journeys you want to do. Mileage expenses paid.

Very rewarding and you choose your trips around your free

time. 17+

EXMOOR SEARCH & RESCUE seek Team Members, who

after a thorough training programme, will be assisting at the

behest of the police in rescuing vulnerable people in any

weather, anywhere in Exmoor. Need to be physically fit, a

team player and have your own transport. 18+ they also want

Team Supporters who help in any way they can, from fund-

raising, administration, to vehicle maintenance and acting as

casualties at exercises, give as much or little time as possi-

ble. 18+

EXMOOR CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS need Dunster

Countryside Team members (Crown Estate) to help the

rangers on the last Thursday of the month, with conserva-

9

tion work, such as clearing views and invasive plants from

woodlands and moorlands. If you are reasonably fit and like

the outdoors, come and join them. Training given. No age

limit

FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL also require weekend centre

assistant, who can help with various duties at Nettlecombe

Court Field Study Centre, including , shop work, assisting

with research work and much more. Help is needed on Sat-

urday and Sundays, lunch and lifts will be provided. Very

interesting role that can be shared. 16+

FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL need assistant leaders for

their monthly Nature club, which runs on a Saturday once a

month, and is for children aged 7-12 yrs old. Help prepare

the sessions and assist during the club. Lift provided. 16+

FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL need help to look after young

children in a school, giving leaders support and also a

chance to help prepare the sessions. They want creature

rangers to assist with these sessions in after school clubs,

so will run in the afternoon. 16+

GOLDEN GORSE a residential home for 8 residents with

special or physical needs in Minehead, want volunteers to

develop experience and skills by working with and joining

the residents in different activities and/or befriending

them on a 1:1 basis or small group environment. You will

work as part of a team and have the opportunity to get

trained. A car is also available to take residents out if you

10

HOST UK want volunteer hosts, who can offer international

students over 18 years old, visits a British home and there-

fore further international understanding and friendship.

Mainly weekends or holidays. All Expenses paid. Make new

friendships and learn about other countries and cultures 18+

you can drive. This is a very enjoyable and rewarding oppor-

tunity. 18+

HOME-START WEST SOMERSET the UK’s leading family

support charity is asking you to volunteer as Trustees, to

help guide and oversee their support service. They want peo-

ple with all kinds of life experiences, finance, the law or

business management. Very little time required and so re-

warding. 18+

HOME-START WS need volunteers with parenting skills

to support families in their own homes offering practical

help and friendship to families with young children, for 3 to

4 hours once a week. Full Training and support will be given.

You could make a difference to a young family. 18+

LEUKAEMIA CARE are looking for fundraising volunteers.

You can choose your level of commitment, from local fund-

JOINT EDUCATION TRUST want BPVC ambassadors to

help vulnerable children achieve their potential. You will

work from home and with your local authorities, need good

interpersonal and communication skills and be part of an ex-

citing project. Full training & support given. 18+

11

LEUKAEMIA CARE require care volunteers, who provide

emotional support to those affected by Leukaemia and

similar. You will be a listening ear, and get them through

difficult times. Support can be by phone and also face to

face at their home or hospital. Care volunteers also raise

awareness and provide information to patients, carers and

medical professionals. Must have experience of cancer.

This is a very rewarding opportunity. Expenses paid and

training and induction are provided. 16+

raising, to organising events and taking on adrenalin-filled

Challenges or co-ordinate regional fundraising. Bake

cakes, distribute Christmas card brochures or sell annual

draw tickets. time commitment to suit you. 15+

LEUKAEMIA CARE want charitable collectors who can

carry out collections at various locations throughout the

year. Time and places of collections are flexible and to suit

the individual volunteers. Whilst doing the collections, you

can raise awareness of their work and services by commu-

nicating with the public. Full training and support given. All

expenses paid. 18+

MAGNA WS HOUSING ASSOCIATION are in need of

people who can provide a cheery visit and deliver a freshly

cooked meal to elderly and disabled people in the commu-

nity, who live within a 10 mile radius of Watchet. This ser-

vice makes a huge difference to their lives. No experience

needed, just a clean driving licence and a friendly personal-

ity. All expenses paid for. Full training will be given. 17+

12

MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE seek Helpers who support

terminally ill people, their family and carers, usually by visit-

ing them at home. They are a familiar face who will spend

time and listens to them. Someone to make them aware of

services that are available to them to get the support they

need. Full training and support given. 18+

MARIE CURIE also want Outreach box collectors for

Minehead, Porlock and Watchet. Collect and return vital col-

lection boxes, count and bank the money. Very minimal time

input but great rewards. We will give you training and pay

your expenses paid. Become part of a great team. No age

limits

MENCAP (TAUNTON) need helpers who will enable people

with learning disabilities to enjoy themselves. They need to

provide support where appropriate. No skills needed just pa-

tience and understanding. Very little time input, trips are a

few times a year. No age limit

MIND require Trustees to establish long and short term

goals, objectives and priorities in meeting the needs of the

community. Help promote the organisation, provide candid

and constructive criticism, advice and comments. 18+

MIND also seek walking group volunteers who have a gen-

eral level of fitness and enjoy interacting with a variety of

people. The walks will be on Monday mornings and will alter-

nate between local areas. No age limit

13

MIND WEST SOMERSET would like to find volunteers

to help them with their Access, Inclusion and Mentoring

project (AIM) which provides support and guidance to

those who have suffered or are suffering from mental and

emotional distress. AIM provides the opportunity for peo-

ple to access and integrate into the local and wider commu-

nity. No age limit

MINDLINE in Taunton want listening volunteers for 3

evenings a month to suit you. Are you a good listener and

want to help others? All training provided including mental

health awareness and telephone listening. Applications en-

couraged from people who have had experience of mental

distress or have an understanding of what it means to oth-

ers. 16+

MOORLAND MOUSIE TRUST (The Exmoor Pony Centre)

offer a variety of volunteering opportunities, from ‘meet &

greet’ volunteers for the shop and centre, to people with

horsemanship skills who can help muck in (muck out) as well

as pony handling when appropriate and necessary. From

April to September we need lots of help with the visitor

centre so if you are friendly and outgoing, can learn how to

use a till and be able to speak with visitors, please let us

know. Training, induction and support given. 15+

MIND also want Fundraising volunteers, to help launch

their community fundraising initiatives, your ideas are

most welcome, put them into practice. Great Fun. No age

limit

14

MS SOCIETY want support volunteers (visitors) who visit

people with MS in hospital, residential care or who are Iso-

lated at home. You will be providing much needed emotional

support. Training & support given. 16+

MS SOCIETY need a Chair for their Taunton and District

Branch to provide leadership to the branch, ensuring that

the committee works together as an effective team, to pro-

vide the services and activities necessary to meet the needs

of the local people affected by MS. You need to have good

leadership and communications skills, and teamwork. 18+

MOORVALE (Credit Union) want Collection point volun-

teers, who can help out for app 1 hour a week on Thursdays

(pm) in Williton and Watchet and/or on Fridays (am) in Mine-

head. You will receive and record savings and loan payments,

and will be working as part of a team. Full training will be

given. Very little time commitment. 15+

MS SOCIETY are looking for a Regional Secretary who

will be volunteering throughout the region, attending meet-

ings and working from home. This should take app 3-4 hours/

wk plus meetings. Includes organising meetings, keeping, re-

cord, etc. Training given, expenses paid. No age limit

MS SOCIETY want to find a Vice Chair to work alongside

their branch chair and ensure the branch is run smoothly

and to deliver the aims of the organisation. Working as part

of a team, leadership and good communication skills needed.

Expenses paid, 18+

15

MS SOCIETY wants a transport co-ordinator, who can

assist people affected by MS to attend meetings and

events, by linking people with reliable local transport and

Taxi . If you are a good communicator and organiser then

this may be for you. Expenses paid. No age limit you are a

good communicator and organiser then this may be for you.

Expenses paid. No age limit

MS SOCIETY need fundraising event volunteer who can

marshall, sell tickets or merchandise at branch, zone, re-

gional or national events. Help source prizes or sponsor-

ship, help organise events and much more. Very interesting

role. Be part of a team and gain experience. 16+

MS SOCIETY require a Recruitment officer who will help

recruit, induct, train and support fundraising volunteers.

Lead the fundraising group and guide its regular meetings.

You need good communication and organisation skills, be

part of a tea, have a clean driving licence and good people

skills. 18+

MS SOCIETY want merchandise and collection fundrais-

ers who can organise and sell MS merchandise at events,

organise and assist at public collections, place and service

collection boxes, empty and count them, and work as part

of a team. If you are flexible, organised and outgoing, then

this is for you. Support & training given. 17+

MS Society require a Minute Secretary with good writ-

ten communication skills and a PC to be part of our team.

16

Your role will be to take notes at committee meetings, circu-

late actions points to members, ensure records minutes are

kept, take minutes at AGM. Full training and support given.

Expenses paid. 16+

NEXT-STEP want Falls Prevention volunteers, across Som-

erset, to help raise awareness of falls prevention with

groups of older people, using the “Head over Heals” presen-

tation DVD. All you need is your own transport and a caring

attitude. Full training and support given. Expenses paid. 17+

NEXT-STEP also want Activity Support volunteers in Dul-

verton who have the opportunity to work within an enthusi-

astic team, working in a group of 1:1 situation, helping adults

with learning disabilities access a range of activities, e.g. go-

ing for walks, cafes, swimming, shopping, etc. As well as

helping with house based activities including art and music

groups. Full training, support and learning disability induc-

tion given. Also first aid course and all out of pocket ex-

penses paid. This is will suit an outgoing, friendly person with

a caring nature. 16+

NEXT-STEP want an Enabler (one to one) to take a

younger person out in a wheelchair to local shops, or around

the park, etc. To give them choices and get them out and

about. This would be in the Minehead area and ideally be on

Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. This opportunity could be

shared and suits a friendly, caring person. No age limit

17

NEXT-STEP also want an activity volunteer who will sup-

port a 14 year old boy to do activities out in the commu-

nity, such as visiting steam trains or garden centres during

holidays and possible weekends. 2-3 hour sessions. 15+

NEXT-STEP need a Befriending volunteer to befriend a

39 year old person with impaired mobility in Simonsbath,

who is isolated due to geographical location. You can give

them a chance to get out, attend hobbies/interests . This

suits a friendly, outgoing and caring person. No age limit

NEXT-STEP are looking for support volunteers, who pro-

vide support in staff supervised groups, to individual adults

with learning disabilities, to enable them to work alongside

their peer group in a range of activities, e.g. gardening, ca-

tering, recycling, etc. This will enable them to enter into

paid employment in the long term. Full training and support

given, all expenses paid. 16+

NEXT-STEP require support volunteers, who can support

Young Carers across the county on a 1:1 basis. Help them to

build confidence and self esteem, or have a break or time

out from their caring responsibilities. This is a chance for

them to have fun and access activities they otherwise

won’t. Weekly fortnightly or monthly basis 1-2 hours.

Training given to the volunteer, expenses paid, no age limit

18

NEXT-STEP want Teenage Parent’s Buddy Scheme volun-

teers, who can provide support and encouragement to a

young parent, to increase their self-confidence, develop life

skills and help them achieve their true potential for them-

selves and their child. Full training, support and supervision

given. 18+

NEXT-STEP want volunteer drivers to use their own cars

to transport vulnerable people of all ages with all types of

needs to various locations around the county. Expenses paid,

clean licence and caring nature essential. 17+

NEXT-STEP require Active Living Centre Organisers for

their project in Dulverton, who get involved in the planning

stages before it opens. Developing a new service with a small

team of volunteers, appropriate training, development of

new skills and ongoing support. 18+

NEXT-STEP want Active Living Centre Volunteers on

Tuesdays in Dulverton who can assist with the day to day

running of the centre, and set up and oversee a range of ac-

tivities. You need to be friendly, motivated and get on with a

wide range of people. Very rewarding. 16+

NEXT-STEP need befriending volunteers for family carers

of people with mental health problems. To provide one to one

support them through difficult times by listening and sup-

porting them. Very small time input, very rewarding and sup-

port and training given. Expenses paid. No age limit

19

NEXT-STEP need care assistants for a day centre for

the elderly in Minehead, to work along staff and help with

the day to day running of the centre. To help others have

fun, gain selfworth and confidence. Mon Wed & Fridays 16+

NEXT-STEP want Activity volunteers for the day centre

to undertake craft activities, participate with scrabble,

cards, etc. or flexcicise and similar. Same days. 16+

NEXT-STEP want Activity volunteers who will support a

person/persons with learning difficulties on the path to

work. To help them acquire and maintain work related skills

and move further towards independence. This is at the

youth hostel in Alcombe on Friday mornings. No age limit

NEXT-STEP are looking for a befriending volunteer to

help a young woman to feel confident about going to vari-

ous activities in Taunton, someone for her to talk to and go

to the cinema, a coffee/lunch or similar. Age ideally 25-35

NEXT-STEP needs Treasurers for Minehead and Brush-

ford to attend active living centres and collect money from

the members. Also help with other book-keeping tasks like

expense payments, banking, paying of invoices, etc. Basic

knowledge needed, support given and all expenses paid. 16+

NEXT-STEP need volunteers to work closely with a pro-

ject worker to deliver the aims of a group, and deliver fun

and exciting programmes and support for young carers. No

age limits, training and support given and expenses paid 16+

20

NHS (Speech & Language Therapy Service) need volun-

teers for life enriched Aphasia Project (LEAP). If you are

patient, reliable, caring and a good communicator and can

travel independently, then please let us train you to enrich

the life of stroke patients by helping them overcome

problems with conversation and restore their self confi-

dence. You will need to commit for at least six months but

are only needed fortnightly for a couple of hours. This is an

interesting and rewarding opportunity. Expenses paid. 16+

NSPCC are looking for distribution co-ordinators, who can

deliver posters and leaflets to shops, companies, pubs, etc.,

when they have a special promotion. Very small time commit-

ment and full support given. 18+

NEXT STEP provide transport to people of all ages and

abilities with an assessed social care need. Escorts are re-

quired to accompany volunteer drivers when providing trans-

port for children 8 years and under. Escort will ensure

child's safety and wellbeing on the journey. 15+

NSPCC want collection box co-ordinators to spare just a

small amount of time and place collection boxes in shops,

pubs, supermarkets, etc. You would also need to empty them

and bank the money regularly. No skills needed. Very small

time commitment and very rewarding. 18+

PALS run a swimming club for older and disabled people on

Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday mornings at St Audrie’s

Holiday Park. They urgently want Bus Leaders from Mine-

21

SCHOOL GOVERNORS ONE-STOP-SHOP want you to

volunteer as a school governor at a school near you. This

is an exciting and unique way to become involved in your lo-

cal community. As a member of a governing body you will

meet new people, develop your skills, widen your experi-

ences and ultimately influence the education of local chil-

dren. All you need is enthusiasm to make a difference. 18+

head and Porlock to meet their clients at the bus, collect

the money, help them get on and off the bus and simply

ensure their safety during the journey. All bus leaders are

welcome to join the swimming sessions for free, and to join

in the fun of the members. Caring and friendly nature is all

that’s required. Very rewarding. No age restrictions

PEOPLE’S TRUST FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES are a

conservation charity that ensures a future for endangered

species. They want Traditional Orchard Surveyors to sur-

vey orchards that they have identified, by completing a 2

phase survey that needs to be completed within 2 months.

Training and support is given to all volunteers. Time input is

very minimal. Great way to get outdoors during this beauti-

ful weather. No age restrictions.

PROMISE is a county-wide mentoring programme for

young people. If you can get involved for a minimum of 2

years and can spare 2/3 hours contact each week, they will

invest in you to become a Mentor. You will complete a rec-

ognised and accredited training course as well as an in-

depth assessment programme. 18+

22

SOMERSET CARE LIMITED needs friendly, outgoing vol-

unteers to provide varied activities for their residents

from organising knitting groups, assisting with trips out,

shopping with or for residents, or help with cooking or gar-

dening. Can you help with any of the above? No experience

needed, just a caring attitude. No age restrictions

SOMERSET CARE LIMITED want gardeners to help them

revamp their garden and make it more user friendly for

their elderly residents. Basic gardening skills and a friendly

nature is all that is needed. No age restrictions

SOMERSET ACTIVE LIVING want active living centre

helpers and an organiser for new groups in Minehead and

Dulverton area. As one of their volunteers you can offer

skills and experiences, meet new friends, feel part of the

community and learn new skills. Commitment is 5-7 hours

fortnightly and you can be trained in basic first aid and food

hygiene if you wish. You will support older people in Active

Living Centres and help them make feel welcome, comfort-

able and support them to enjoy a range of activities. 16+

SOMERSET COMMUNITY LAND & FOOD PROJECT need

Mapping volunteers for phase one of the SLAF project, to

map land currently used by community groups to produce

food (for example grow fruit & vegetable or manage small

scale livestock). Mappers will explore the local area, liaise

with parish council and allotment associations and identify

further land for food production, input data into a database.

Map training will be given. No age limits

23

Can’t commit to a regular volunteering oppor-

tunity? No problem!

We often have one or two day events where

volunteers are wanted to help out with vari-

ous activities, from marshals at cycling

races, fundraising events, to Wildlife Trust

days, Watchet Carnival or the Cancer Re-

search Relay for life. We have something for

everybody so come and find out more.

SOMERSET PARENT PARTNERSHIP want Independ-

ent Parental Supporters to provide a range of informa-

tion, guidance and support to parents and carers of chil-

dren with Special Educational Needs - for example, sup-

porting parents at meetings relating to their child's

education; helping to prepare for meetings, etc. Full

training and induction given. Expenses paid and support

for all volunteers. 18+

SOMERSET SIGHT want Volunteer Visitors to help

and support visually impaired people to lead a more inde-

pendent life. All you need is empathy and understanding,

a friendly and caring nature and to be able to commit to

visit somebody on a regular basis. This opportunity is

very rewarding and travel expenses will be paid. Oppor-

tunities are all over West Somerset. 18+

24

SOMERSET WILDLIFE TRUST urgently need communica-

tions/administration volunteer and an IT development vol-

unteer. Both opportunities are based in Tonedale Welling-

ton. Please come and find out more. They also require Wild-

life Volunteers to fulfil a variety of volunteering opportuni-

ties all over Somerset. You can help with practical conserva-

tion tasks or wildlife monitoring and recording, as well as of-

fice based tasks at the head office nr Wellington. They also

need help at specific events or you could possibly join the

Why should you volunteer?

♦ To meet new people

♦ To have fun and do something different

♦ To learn new skills and gain qualifica-

tions

♦ To enhance your CV

♦ To give something back and feel

wanted

♦ To use your skills and pass them on

♦ To change somebody else’s life for the

better

♦ To make a difference

♦ Because we want you!

25

TAUNTON AND SOMERSET SAMARITANS

Require listening volunteers who offer emotional support

24 hours a day, 365 days a year as part of the National

Samaritan organisation. Excellent training and support

given. The opportunity is situated in Taunton. They also

need Support volunteers, who help with fund-raising, pub-

licity, collections and administration. Very rewarding op-

portunities. No age limit

Do you need volunteers?

Or do you know somebody who does?

Then please give them our details and we

will advertise yours or their volunteering op-

portunity in the next booklet and/or on the

volunteering England website.

All free of charge

area group committee if organising is your thing. An up to

date list of activities is available. Mostly 18+ some 16+

THE BAKELITE MUSEUM offers opportunities to help in

a unique and world famous museum. You would meet and

greet visitors and help with the general running of the

museum, taking money, selling publication, etc. No experi-

26

TRANSITION MINEHEAD & ALCOMBE (TMA) want vol-

unteers for their garden share scheme all over West Som-

erset. If you have difficulties looking after your garden and

are prepared to share it with someone for them to grow

fruit or vegetables, or if you are looking for a garden to

grow produce but have no garden or land, then this scheme

might be for you. This is great fun, very rewarding and a

chance to meet new people. 16+

THE SOMERSET & DORSET RAILWAY MUSEUM at

Washford station require General volunteers who would like

to step back in time at this delightful station. There is

something for all ages and fitness. You can work at the sta-

tion shop, perform maintenance and restoration work on rail-

way vehicles or buildings. Join a great team and have fun.

18+ (or supervised)

needed but an enthusiastic, friendly manner and interest in

the collection would be a bonus. Training given and expenses

paid. Or you could help out in maintaining the grounds and garden, especially with the new vintage

1930’s caravan park, or the café, which sometimes needs

extra help with serving and food preparation. No age limit

THE HOPE CENTRE ALLOTMENTS are looking for any-

body interested in joining their group to produce fruit and

vegetables. In particular they are looking for young volun-

teers 16-25 so they can show them how to grow things. This

is a lovely and friendly group who use some of the produce

for their homeless project. 16+

27

WEST SOMERSET ADVICE BUREAU would like to train

you as a volunteer advisor, the core of the service they

offer. Training is in house, once a week, after which you

can join their other advisors on a rota, and help people who

call or come into the Minehead office. No age limit

VISTA PROJECT want volunteers over 50 to join their

Intergenerational project (postcards from the past).

They will teach you how to take a digital photo of an item

from your past, and how to manipulate it, then upload it

onto a website and tell your story to young people. This is a

brilliant way to bring generations together and learn from

each other. Come and find out more. 50+

WEST SOMERSET ADVICE BUREAU are also looking for

receptionists, with no previous experience but a friendly

and professional attitude, as they will be the first contact

for any visitors. Admin volunteers are also required to

help with the 1001 tasks that makes the bureau run

smoothly, from data inputting, to form filing (1 day a week)

No experience needed, no age restrictions

VICTIM SUPPORT require Victim/Witness Supporters

who help rebuild shattered lives and give support to vic-

tims of crime throughout the county of Somerset and sup-

port witnesses at trial/court. If you are mature and have

life skills, a non judgemental approach and a desire to help

others, then this might be for you. Full training (training

course) and ongoing support given, with all out of pocket

expenses paid. Maximum age 70

28

WEST SOMERSET CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER are

looking for conservation volunteers who meet up every

other Friday around various beauty spots in Somerset to

give all sorts of help needed and wanted in regards to con-

servation work. Lift provided, all you need is to be reasona-

bly fit and enjoy the countryside and wildlife. 16+

If you are looking for something to do

but aren’t quite sure if volunteering is

for you, why not pop in for a chat

and a cup of tea or coffee? Pick up

that phone, make an appointment and

find out more. It could be the best

decision you ever make!

WEST SOMERSET HEALTHY COMMUNITIES (WSHC)

need volunteers to become active members who help and

WEST SOMERSET CAR SCHEME PARTNERSHIP urgently

want a Treasurer who can work from home, plus attend 3

meetings a year. You will maintain financial records, prepare

a simple annual financial statement and possibly be able to

perform basic photo shop procedures for driver ID’s. Sup-

port and training given, but you will need basic account

knowledge, be organised and methodical, basic computing

skill and a team player. Expenses paid 18+

29

WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY ASSOCIATION will be

looking to fill various volunteering opportunities such as

ticket sellers, engineers, station staff, signal men,

gardeners, gangway members, etc. to be filled at various

stations throughout the West Somerset Railway line. They

Urgently want volunteers for their turntable café and on

board catering facilities to work app 4 hour shifts. This is

a fun opportunity so find out more. Come and find out how

you can keep the railway and it’s stations going for many

more generations, something for everybody.

WEST SOMERSET RURAL LIFE MUSEUM needs a

handyperson to help with a variety of maintenance jobs

around the museum, such as maintaining display cabinets,

furniture, and general repairs etc. Flexible hours to suit

the volunteers, good DIY skills, no heavy building work. We

only have limited tools, so if you have your own, please

bring them along too. No age limit.

WEST SOMERSET RURAL LIFE MUSEUM require a Ad-

ministrator/Assistant Manager who can work alongside

the Chairman and the Treasurer to assist the day to day

running of the museum. This person would need to help su-

pervising a team of volunteers, liaise with local schools and

possibly carry out some public speaking. 18+

support healthy lifestyle events within West Somerset,

e.g. cooking sessions and healthy eating events in schools.

We also offer the opportunity to join the WSHC commit-

tee. 16+

30

WHEELS (Watchet and Williton Voluntary Community

Car Scheme) are looking for voluntary drivers who will

drive elderly and disabled people to appointments and social

outings. If you like driving, have a clean driving licence, own

a car and like to help people get about, this is for you. You

can choose your trips and how far you are willing to travel.

Need to be reliable. All out of pocket expenses (including

mileage) paid. 17+

WEST SOMERSET SCOUT DISTRICT want you to help

young people to develop as active members of their commu-

nity. They need people with all types of experiences and

want uniformed leaders, committee members, fund rais-

ers, instructors and more, there is a place for you some-

where. Help young people achieve their physical, intellectual,

social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible

citizens and as members of their local communities. Vacan-

cies all over West Somerset, i.e. Williton, Porlock, etc.

YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION MINEHEAD need peo-

ple to help out with health & safety paperwork, like risk as-

sessments. If you have any knowledge about health & safety

or are good on the computer please let us know. They also

need gardeners, catering and housekeeping volunteers and

general help with their visitors. The YHA in Alcombe is one

of the most stunning locations on Exmoor. Friendly atmos-

phere and support and training given. 16+

31

New opportunities come in on a regular ba-

sis so we encourage you to call or come in to

see what we have on offer and we can talk

over a cup of tea or coffee. If you want to

have a private chat please also call, as we

can meet outside the opening hours.

OPENING HOURS:

Monday—Thursday 12-3pm or by appoint-

ment,

Friday by appointment only

YHA EXFORD need help with painting and decorating and

general DIY. You don’t need to be qualified just good with

your hands and willing to help. It’s a lovely way to meet

people and all you need is enthusiasm. They also need help

with the gardens, including habitat building in one of the

most beautiful spots on Exmoor. 16+

32

We update this list regularly. If you are inter-

ested in any of the

opportunities please contact Nicole at Engage

Volunteer Centre

on 01643 704041

Or email on volunteercentre@engagews.org.uk

You are welcome to come in for a chat about any

opportunity you may be interested in. There is

usually someone in the

Minehead office between 12 and 3pm Monday to

Thursday but you are advised to ring and make

an appointment to avoid disappointment. Friday’s

by app. only.

23 A Friday Street

Minehead

TA24 5UB Engage Volunteer Centre is part of

ENGAGE—the West Somerset Voluntary Sector Development Agency

The working name of West Somerset CVS Charity No. 297839