Middlesbrough Client Support Volunteer

Positive Pathways is our homelessness prevention programme in Middlesbrough, specifically designed to help people with experience of homelessness moving forward in life focusing on developing a broad range of life skills

Aim of the Client Support role

Volunteers will meet with people currently engaged with the Positive Pathways service, during the drop in (Mondays and Wednesdays 10am to 4pm) or to accompany a client to an appointment in the area

They will provide practical support (i.e. help with housing applications, claiming benefits, registering with a GP etc) and emotional support (i.e. providing one to one support through providing a "listening ear") if required. The aim is to address any issues the person has that may be preventing them from finding appropriate longer-term accommodation or returning home where appropriate

Main Tasks

• Provide a listening ear and apply effective mentoring skills to help build client confidence and self-esteem
• Arrange to meet the person at a convenient and appropriate location
• Update case notes
• Liaise with Positive Pathways staff team
• Familiarise self with person's referral and assessment information
• Identify the person's outstanding housing related issues
• Sign post, advise, refer to appropriate services
• Accompany people to appointments
• Attend initial and periodic training during the course of the role
• Support the delivery of weekly drop-in and wellbeing groups
• Support the team providing food and drinks (toast and tea/coffee) during drop-in

The role needs to be carried out during working hours i.e. Mon to Fri between 9am and 5.00pm although some additional times may be required ie Saturday afternoon Lunch session

A regular pattern of volunteering i.e. the same day(s) every week is preferred, though not essential

Skills

• The ability to relate to people on a one to one, non-judgmental basis
• A desire to work with disadvantaged people
• Basic knowledge of housing related matters would be beneficial though is not essential
• Time to spare on a regular basis and a commitment to volunteering
• A willingness to participate in training and be involved in consultation regarding the role
• Access to a vehicle would be beneficial though is not essential