We are setting up a poetry group here at Birch Lane and are looking for a volunteer to help facilitate the group. Your volunteer role will include promoting the group to residents and encouraging attendance. Helping to set up the room for the session including moving tables and chairs if necessary. Set up any equipment for the group, searching poetry websites and printing out copies of the poem, and connecting to speakers to play audiobooks, being comfortable with IT equipment and navigating the internet would be a plus for this role. You will also make refreshments and tidy away at the end of the session.

During the session you will read the poems to the group and start the discussion afterwards with a couple of questions prepared to get people talking. You will need to be comfortable reading aloud to a group of people and as a poetry group facilitator you will be skilled in steering the discussion and keeping the conversation on topic and flowing. You will have a love of poetry and an interest in sharing this with group members. The group will run collaboratively and you will choose the poems for the sessions together, and encourage group members to read the poems aloud if they feel comfortable to do so.

Volunteer Duties :

• Promote the poetry group to residents.
• Choose poems for the group in collaboration with residents.
• Read the poems aloud to the group and lead the discussion afterwards, with a couple of discussion starter questions prepared.
• Be comfortable using IT equipment including searching website, navigating apps, printing, and connecting to speakers.
• Set up equipment for the session, and move tables and chairs if necessary.
• Prepare refreshments for the group.
• Display a friendly demeanour whilst respecting Creative Support policies on boundaries and Safeguarding.
• Report any concerns to Creative Support staff members
• Attend regular supervisions and undertake all training provided.

As a volunteer with Creative Support we offer training for your role, access to a volunteer supervisor, an induction, a monthly Volunteer newsletter, and an online volunteer’s peer support group. Together we can make a difference.

Suggested Time Commitment : Every Thursday 10 : 30am till 1pm

If you would like to discuss volunteering with us, the role you’re applying for or you application form you can contact our Volunteer Department on 0161 236 0829 or email [email protected].

Creative Support is a passionate, inclusive, and anti-racist organisation. We are a Stonewall Diversity Champion, Disability Confident Employer who have recently received Investors in People Silver award. We actively encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds and cultures.