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Mid Ulster Cookstown Volunteer Centre
2b Coagh Crescent
Cookstown
BT80 8NH
028 8676 1122
www.midulstervolunteercentre.org
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES COOKSTOWN
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Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.
We are working to raise £2 million per year to fund the Helicopter Emergency Service for NI. This
life saving service will prove vital for our rural communities and has already been tasked on 100s
of missions since its launch in July 2017.
We need volunteers to assist with many tasks and duties including collections, information stands,
visiting schools and other organisations to present on the charities work.
Collecting Can Volunteers
Age 16+
As one of Northern Irelands newest charities we urgently need volunteers to assist in the placing
of collecting cans in your local area. This will involve travel to local shops, pubs, restaurants etc to
place cans and record their location. You will then service these cans every few months by
collecting them and replacing.
Volunteers required for fundraising and flag days. A pleasant and outgoing personality and own
transport would be an advantage.
Volunteers will be given an induction about their role.
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Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis UK
Awareness & Activities Volunteer
Age 16
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis - two of the main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
(or IBD) affect more than 300,000 people in the UK. Yet it is largely a hidden disease and one
that causes stigma, fear and isolation. As the UK’s leading charity in the battle against Crohn’s
Disease and Ulcerative Colitis our mission is to work with all those affected by these conditions
to achieve a better quality of life, improve services and ultimately find a cure.
Crohn’s and Colitis UK have teams of volunteers based around the country raising awareness of
these two conditions. You’ll take an active role in planning and delivering one or more of our
awareness raising activities to promote our presence and bring people together locally:
organising events, education and information sessions, social activities
editing newsletters
managing social media pages
fundraising
campaigning
The role is very flexible and volunteers can get involved at any time , most activities take place
during evenings and weekends. All activities, locations and dates are decided by the team of
volunteers. The team usually organise 5-10 events throughout the year and you can get involved
from as little as 3 hours a month or more.
This is a great opportunity to be involved in your local community, enhance and learn new skills
such as leadership, event management, communication, and be part of a team who are passionate
about making a difference! Help us organise activities that interest you!
________________________________________________________________________________
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Inspire
Support & Group Facilitator
Age 18
Access NI check required
Inspire (the new name for Niamh, the Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health), is a
charity and social enterprise based in Northern Ireland which provides support and services in
the areas of mental health, learning disability, workplace/academic well-being and addiction.
Inspire is highly committed to engaging volunteers in its full range of services and recognises
volunteers as a core part of the team, with a distinctive but complementary role alongside staff.
Support staff and engage with members (people with mental health needs) in a range of
activities - arts & crafts, walking groups, cookery, music, gardening and mindfulness
sessions
Help facilitate and deliver groups sessions and outings with the members
Offer 1-1 support to members - be a 'listening ear' and increase their confidence and self
esteem
Induction and training is available including regular supervision.
SOFT Volunteer
Age 18+
Access NI check required
SOFT- ‘Supporting Our Families Together’ is a family support service working in partnership with
schools to provide support and learning opportunities to families with children (4-12 years old)
attending one of the following schools in the Cookstown area:
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• Cookstown Nursery School
• Cookstown Primary School
• Cookstown High School
• Holy Trinity Primary School
• Holy Trinity High School
• Phoenix Integrated Primary School
SOFT understands that all families are unique and anyone can find themselves facing challenges at
home or in school at any time. We offer a non-judgemental and supportive service to help you to
support your children in school, in the community and at home. SOFT can also provide families
with the opportunity to learn different skills alongside their children and meet with other parents
and support networks within the Cookstown community.
________________________________________________________________________________
Dementia NI
Dementia NI is an independent membership organisation which has been set up by people living
with dementia. The Empowerment groups have been set up to ensure that people with a
diagnosis of dementia are having their voices heard. Our group members challenge the stigma
of dementia, raise awareness of dementia, promote the rights of people living with dementia
and also support people living with dementia to lobby and raise awareness in their own right.
Event Support and Awareness Raising Volunteer
Empowerment Group Support Volunteer
Volunteer Driver
At our group meetings we invite external organisations and care providers along to give them a
unique opportunity to seek the views and lived experiences of people with dementia. The
empowerment groups and members aim to raise awareness about dementia and challenge the
stigma that many people face daily. We promote more opportunities for learning for people living
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with dementia including developing new skills, such as learning to use tablet computers and also
utilizing existing skills and knowledge that they may have.
Our Empowerment groups are being developed in each health trust area across Northern Ireland.
Groups vary in frequency, depending on the area, but generally will run weekly or fortnightly,
lasting 2-3 hours in duration. The groups generally take place on weekdays between 10am and
5pm. Group members also attend events, talks and meetings to raise awareness of what it is like
to live with dementia and the organisation.
Epilepsy Action Northern Ireland
Coffee & Chat Volunteer
In Northern Ireland approximately 20,000 people have epilepsy. Epilepsy can affect anyone at
any age and from any walk of life.
Epilepsy Action Northern Ireland:
Raises awareness and increases understanding of epilepsy
Lobbies and campaigns for a better future for people with epilepsy
Supports people through our network of volunteers, branches and groups
Organises information events for both people living with epilepsy and health
professionals
Organises and supports local fundraising events
Coffee and chat groups are being set up all across the UK. These give people living with epilepsy
the chance to meet each other in ordinary venues like cafes, tea rooms, coffee shops etc. Coffee
& Chat volunteers help build a brighter future for people living with epilepsy. If you are interested
in setting up a group in your city/town in Northern Ireland then here is your opportunity.
A Coffee and Chat Volunteer supports the effective running of a coffee and chat group and
provides a link between the people attending the coffee and chat group and Epilepsy Action.
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What’s involved?
Be a contact person for the group and Epilepsy Action
Ensure a welcoming environment
Use the travelling kit to make attendees aware of available information
A brief informal training session is provided and a monthly phone. The local manager will visit the
group at least once a year.
________________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Ulster Talking Newspaper Soundtrack
Reader/Interviewer
Storyteller
Age 16+
Access NI check required
Volunteers would co-operate with at least one other person to present 45 minutes of news read
from a local weekly paper for people in the Mid-Ulster area who have problems with reading or
who have a visual impairment.
The readings take place on either Wednesday evening or Thursday morning in a Cookstown venue.
They are now in digital format and are distributed by first class post to recipients in the form of a
USB pen weekly. After the news section comes a magazine-type programme which may include
music, singing, jokes, interviews, storytelling, short story reading or presenting of articles of local
interest. Anyone interested in reading the news or in preparing material for the magazine will be
made most welcome.
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Depaul
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Depaul is a charity helping people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We believe that
they deserve help to rebuild their lives and progress to a positive future. We offer supported
accommodation service for single people and couples who are experiencing homelessness,
providing professional 24/7 support. Based in the centre of Dungannon the service has a
communal area, kitchen, gym, art & games room and garden areas.
Community Support Volunteer
A friendly volunteer is needed to accompany Depaul staff on regular community visits. Staff
provide Harm Reduction Floating Support to people who are at risk of homelessness, are isolated
in their home and are struggling with addiction issues and independent living.
Staff focus on tenancy issues, harm reduction and other specific needs and the volunteer can help
support the service user socially in a befriending type role. There is also option for telephone
support (phone provided). Training will be provided.
Activities Volunteer
Volunteers are required to encourage social interaction in a homeless accommodation service by
engaging with service users by having a chat, play cards, play pool, gaming, organise quizzes or
bingo, in-house befriending, watching movies, cookery, listening to music, creative activities etc.
Volunteers would also be able to assist staff in general daily tasks.
Befriender
Volunteers are required to provide befriending support to the Housing First, Family Service
Floating Support, Harm Reduction Floating Support or Castlehill Re-Settlement teams. Each
volunteer will be matched to a service user in their local area. Duties would include making weekly
visits to support service users and provide a listening ear and social support. Volunteers will also
complete necessary basic admin and update staff regarding any issues with service users that staff
need to action.
Gym/Fitness Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to help male & female service users to move towards a healthier lifestyle
using on-site gym and support their physical well being.
________________________________________________________________________________
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Save the Children
Age 18+
Shop Assistant/Admin
Volunteers are required to become part of a team and learn some administration skills such as
basic finance, as well as have the opportunity to attend meetings to learn more about Save the
Children work. Volunteers are required to work in the charity shop operating the tills and sorting
clothes. Opening hours: 9.45am – 4.15pm. We would like to form a group of volunteers willing to
work after hours e.g. 7-9pm fortnightly or monthly.
Citizens Advice Mid Ulster
Advisor/Information Volunteer
Age 16+
Citizens Advice Mid Ulster is an advice and information service. We help people resolve their debt,
benefits, housing, legal, discrimination, employment, immigration, consumer and other problems. Our
services are available to everyone regardless of race, gender, sexuality, age, nationality, disability or
religion. The work of the Citizens Advice would not be possible without volunteers.
WHAT CAN YOU GET FROM CITIZENS ADVICE?
Flexibility about when you work within the constraints of the site rota
Out of pocket expenses
Support in the form of supervision and staff meetings
Accredited Adviser Training (to offer general advice to clients)
Accredited Tribunal Training (to support clients to appeal against benefit decisions)
Personal Development
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WHAT DOES CITIZENS ADVICE EXPECT FROM A VOLUNTEER?
Commitment: a minimum of 6hrs per week. This should take into account your other commitments
(family, job, courses etc)
Understanding and empathy of people with problems and an ability to cope with difficult situations
Able to work within the aims, principles and policies of Citizens Advice
Able to establish respect and trusting relationships with clients
Good communication skills
Good literacy and numeracy skills
Rural Support
Helpline Volunteers
Age 18+
Rural Support provides a confidential support service to the rural and farming community across
all of Northern Ireland. Our work is made possible through the skills, experience and expertise
of our team of volunteers.
By volunteering with Rural Support you could:
Empower and help others who may need support
Use your skills and experience in a meaningful way
Enhance your own life through routine, structure and stimulation
You could provide support within the following roles:
Outreach support at events to promote the service
Emotional support on a one to one basis with clients
Practical or technical support on the phone or face to face with clients
Helpline support on the phone to callers
Rural Support is particularly keen to recruit volunteers who have experience of farm business
management and could assist others with farm finance/debt issues.
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Bowel Cancer UK
Age 18+
Bowel Cancer UK is a charitable organisation dedicated to saving lives and improving the quality
of life for all those affected by bowel cancer.
Awareness Volunteers
Have you been affected by bowel cancer in some way? Would you like to become a volunteer and
help raise awareness of bowel cancer in your local community?
Our awareness volunteers deliver talks across Northern Ireland to bring the facts about bowel
cancer to people’s attention and help them understand the symptoms, risk factors and the bowel
screening programme. Becoming a volunteer is easy, we offer a full day's training with plenty of
time to practice the presentation, and we will support you every step of the way. All we ask is that
you commit to delivering one event per month and you must be willing to speak in public.
Fundraising volunteer
Fundraising Volunteers are crucial to raising enough money to meet our ambitious goals. If you’d
be interested in helping out from time to time at street collections, store collections, large events,
collecting money tins etc. then please get in touch.
Motor Neurone Disease Association
Association Visitor
18+
Access NI Check Required
The MND Association was founded in 1979. Our mission is to improve care and support for
people with MND, their families and carers. We also fund and promote research that leads to
new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. MND is a rapidly
progressive disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It attacks the nerves that control
movement so muscles refuse to work.
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Association Visitors act as the main contact for people living with MND, this includes the person
with MND, their family and carer on behalf of the Association. They keep in regular contact
offering confidential emotional support, and accurate information to enable people with MND to
make informed choices.
On completion of your training and induction, you would be expected to take on the following:
Make and maintain contact regularly by phone, email or face to visits with people living
with motor neurone disease.
Explain the support and services the Association can offer.
Discuss their needs and wishes regarding support from the Association
Enable them to identify problems as they arise and explore how these might be managed,
outlining the sorts of options available and how to access these
Develop and maintain relationships with your local branch or group
Make accurate and relevant records in accordance with the MND Associations guidelines
and local protocols
Attend support and supervision meetings and other development events
Full training and induction will be provided and travel expenses will be reimbursed. For this role
you need to be able to work as part of a team, liaise with Health & Social Care professionals and
have the ability to develop and maintain supportive relationships.
We are looking for volunteers who can commit a minimum of 2 – 4 hours per week.
________________________________________________________________________________
Concern Worldwide
Age 18+
Concern Worldwide is an international humanitarian organisation specialising in tackling hunger
with the most vulnerable people in 25 of the world’s poorest and most fragile countries. Our
mission is to help communities living in extreme poverty achieve major improvements in their
lives, which last and spread without on-going external support.
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Concern Ambassador
We are looking for passionate people who love to chat to help us spread the Concern message in
schools and businesses. As a volunteer Concern Ambassador we ask you to visit a school or
business in your local area to talk about Concern and the work we do when we receive a request.
We will also provide you with the training and materials needed to be a successful Concern
Ambassador.
Collection Box Co-ordinator
As a volunteer Collection Box Co-ordinator we ask you to visit shops, businesses and clubs in your
local area distributing our charity boxes, collect the boxes when they are full, count the money and
send it back. This is a really flexible opportunity that you can arrange around your own needs,
whether you can spare one hour a fortnight or more.
Advice NI
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Advice NI's mission is to develop an independent advice sector that provides the best possible
advice to those who need it most. The Supporting Active Engagement project uses volunteers to
engage older people in digital inclusion taking place across N.Ireland. The project aims to help
older people get online (and stay online) through the use of tablets. The project has a specific
focus on helping people access information about their rights and entitlements.
Internet Champion
To deliver 10 sessions (each lasting approx. 1½ hours) of ICT training to a small group (5-10 older
people) within the community, specifically within Folds or private nursing homes. The overarching
aim for the volunteer is to empower older people to access necessary information online, with
emphasis on older peoples’ rights and entitlements (including pensions, benefits, health, housing
& community care).
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Each volunteer will have full support of the project’s paid staff. Volunteers are a pivotal part of
the overall success of the project. It is hoped that volunteers will commit to a 2 day training
programme once a week for 10 weeks and engage in supervision meetings every month.
Volunteers must provide their own transport to the training location yet travel expenses will be
reimbursed. Advice NI will endeavour to place volunteers in a location nearby.
________________________________________________________________________________
Cancer Focus NI
Age 18+
Cancer Focus NI is here to help you improve your health and support you and your family when
you’re affected by cancer. Cancer Focus is building a team of enthusiastic individuals to spread
the word about our work throughout the province. To ensure that if anyone in their local
community faces a diagnosis of cancer they know they can turn to Cancer Focus NI for
professional advice, guidance and access to our free care services.
Family Support Service Assistant
Age 21+
Our Family Support Service provides help to families where there is a significant adult with a
cancer diagnosis. An essential part of that help is to support the children through a difficult and
scary time in their lives through talking and creative play. This voluntary role assists the Family
Support Worker with the smooth running of our children’s groups, Bereavement projects and
Parents Support evenings. Takes place in Junction Community Building, Dungannon on the first
Wednesday of every month from 6pm-9.30pm.
To help set up the rooms and prepare the activities for the children
To take part in the group on all levels to support the children – holding discussions/ role
play etc
To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for children and adults, listening to
their concerns and responding appropriately
To help with arts and crafts
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To play with the children
To clear up after activities and refreshments
Leaflet Distributor Volunteer
identify suitable locations
obtain permission and deliver supplies of various leaflets and posters to help promote the
work and activities of the charity
Box Collector Volunteer
maintain current outlets and identify potential new collection box sites
pick up boxes when full (normally on a 3 month cycle) and leave new boxes in their place
At least 8 hours per month of your spare time will make a BIG difference - flexible to fit in with
your lifestyle. We are looking for volunteers who will be available over the long term to build up
contacts and relationships within their own community.
No experience is required as full support and training will be provided.
Personal qualities required - sociable, enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable and good
organisational skills. Access to a car is required when collecting and delivering boxes and out of
pocket expenses will be reimbursed.
________________________________________________________________________________
Alzheimer’s Society
Access NI check required
Our vision is of a radically improved world for people with dementia. A world where they have
their rights recognised where they fully contribute to family & community life & where they can
live with dignity free from discrimination.
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Mid Ulster Volunteering Opportunities:
Side by Side Volunteer 18+ - All across Mid Ulster Side by Side volunteers will provide agreed support to people with dementia which could be either
by visiting them in their home, enabling them to stay active, taking part in appropriate social and
recreational activities in their community or simply just having a telephone conversation,
whichever they require. Your involvement aims to help people to feel less isolated enabling the
person to focus on their strengths to remain active and confident.
Side by side volunteer Telephone – 16+
This role will require volunteers to make person centred phone calls, from any location, to people
living with dementia. The phone calls will be made regularly and reliably as agreed with the person
dementia. Have good verbal communication and listening on the phone.
Side by side Hospital volunteer (Causeway Hospital) – 16+ As a volunteer you will provide invaluable, person centred opportunities for people living with
dementia during their stay in hospital. The volunteer will enable someone to take part in social
and recreational activities on the wards or keep someone connected to things they love. For
example listening to music, simply enjoying a good conversation or taking part in group activities.
Support Services Volunteer 16+ The support services volunteer role is essential to support staff and to stimulate and engage with
people dementia during groups and day activities. In this role you will ensure that group’s
participants feel comfortable and are able to participate through activities such as craft, music and
storytelling. This role is flexible and we do hope you will be able to offer a few hours each week
and provide some continuity over a number of months.
Volunteer Learner 16+ Learning support volunteers play a pivotal role in the support, development and empowerment of other
volunteers. They provide practical support using workbooks and Society learning, as well as their own
passion and enthusiasm, to help volunteers confidently and meaningfully undertake their learning. You will
play a key role in our vibrant volunteer community, enabling and empowering others.
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Volunteer Leader 16+
Volunteer leaders enable and empower our volunteers and play a key role in our vibrant volunteer
community. As a volunteer leader you will help ensure that our volunteers are connected, supported,
developed and feel valued. You will support staff and volunteer recruitment and exit interviews.
Keeping in Touch Volunteer 16+
‘Keeping in touch’ (KIT) calls are an exciting new part of the Alzheimer’s Society’s offer for people
living with dementia. KIT volunteers play a key role in keeping someone who’s living with
dementia connected. By taking a personal, warm and engaging approach to their role, our KIT
volunteers provide a friendly, tailored proactive support service. The role makes a huge difference
and KIT volunteers play a fundamental role in on-going person centred support.
Awareness Raising Volunteer 16+
The awareness raising volunteer is essential to promote our services and highlight our presence in
local communities. The role also helps to raise awareness of dementia and provide dementia
related information. The services can be promoted in a wide range of ways, from the distribution
of leaflets, booklets and posters, liaising with the media, through websites and social networking
and by attending local groups, gatherings and community events.
Media Volunteer 16+
By speaking publicly about your experience of living with dementia you will help to raise
awareness of dementia and challenge the stigma that surrounds the condition. The press office
can give the media facts and figures, provide experts and talk about research, but it is personal
experience that makes a real impact.
Research Network Volunteers 18+
Alzheimer’s Society Research Network provides a ground-breaking opportunity for people who
have experience of dementia to influence and monitor research projects. The role involves
contributing to the two-yearly setting of priority topics for research, reading, prioritising and
commenting on research applications; approximately 6-8 applications, 5-6 times a year.
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Volunteer Recruiter 18+
• Liaising with staff and other volunteers (such as the volunteer supporter) in the identification of
volunteering recruitment needs
• Assisting with the writing of volunteer role descriptions, using these as the basis for recruitment
• Leading or assisting with the recruitment of new volunteers locally, following best practice
guidance and using current Society paperwork
• Maintaining recruitment/placement information
• Building local relationships with partners such as volunteer centres and other support agencies.
Volunteer Fundraisers 16+
Community fundraising is at the very centre of how we raise vital funds at a local level. The money
we raise funds the delivery of universal services that include our website and National Dementia
Helpline, as well as the services we provide locally. It also helps to fund research into the cause,
cure, care and prevention of dementia, and our campaigning work. Fundraisers are the local
heroes of community fundraising.
Local representative volunteer 16+
Attending a range of meetings with a wide variety of external agencies as a representative of the
Society, particularly in local health and social care bodies. Making contact with elected
representatives to promote the society’s work. Local representative will use their considerable
knowledge, skills and experience to represent the society.
User support volunteer
Providing a support function to individual or small groups of people with dementia who want to
influence the work of the society or get involved in raising awareness and campaigning. You will be
liaising with people to agree what involvement activities they wish to pursue and what level of
support they will need. When required, accompanying a person with dementia to an activity. For
example a meeting and supporting their active involvement.
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Young Enterprise
Advisor/Speaker
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Young Enterprise Northern Ireland is a charity developing the entrepreneurial skills and
aspirations of young people aged four to 25 to prepare them for the new economy.
We develop the skills of young people to ensure they leave education prepared for life and
work. Working in partnership with education and business we engage with 100,000 young
people each year. With support from the Department of Education our programmes address the
skills development requirements of the Northern Ireland curriculum.
Volunteering opportunities exist with both Primary and Post Primary schools in the local area to
deliver and facilitate business enterprise programmes. Volunteers must be over 18 and we can
accommodate volunteers with support needs. Experience an exciting new challenge by
volunteering with Young Enterprise Northern Ireland. Bring your knowledge, passion and
experience to inspire the next generation of young people to discover their potential and make a
lasting impression.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Positive Futures
Support Worker
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Positive Futures support people with a learning disability, acquired brain injury or autistic
spectrum condition. Our innovative community-based services support adults in the Cookstown
and Magherafelt areas. Our aim is to transform the future of the people we support. We do
that by enabling people to realise their hopes, dreams and ambitions. We change attitudes by
proving that a person doesn’t have to be defined by a disability. And, we change society by
showing that, with the right support everyone can play a valuable role in the community.
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You can help us to transform lives. The people we support want the same things as everyone else
– involvement, respect and the opportunity to live life as fully as possible. Volunteering
opportunities include supporting an individual in a social or leisure activity, sharing and enjoying
their skills and interests. If you’ve got time and commitment we can use it! Some people
volunteer weekly others fortnightly. We know volunteers are busy people and we work together
to agree what suits everyone.
What qualities do we look for in a volunteer?
You need to be committed, friendly, and responsible, have patience and understanding. The main
requirement is the desire to make a difference. All our volunteers receive induction training,
support and guidance and the opportunity for personal development. Your safety and wellbeing
are also important to us and we will do all we can to ensure that you enjoy what you do and are
comfortable and confident in your role.
You will: meet new people, have the opportunity to train and learn new skills, gain experience and
develop your confidence, enhance your CV, discover hidden talents, share your skills and interests,
make a big difference in someone’s life, be valued and have your contribution recognised.
Code Club
Code Club Volunteer/Leader
Age 18+
Code Club is a nationwide network of free volunteer-led after-school coding clubs for children aged 9-13.
We create projects for our volunteers to teach at after or during school coding clubs or at non-school
venues such as libraries. The projects we make teach children how to program by showing them how to
make computer games, animations and websites. Each term the students will progress and learn more,
whilst at the same time using their imaginations and making creative projects. Terms 1 & 2 use Scratch to
teach the basics of programming. Term 3 teaches the basics of web development using HTML and CSS.
Term 4 teaches Python and so on.
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You will learn about creating computer games, animations and websites.
We’d like to put a Code Club in every single primary school in the country, would you like to be a part of
this? As a Code Club Volunteer/Leader you will work with a supervisor of a primary school close to where
you live to help children work through step by step learning using worksheets provided by Code Club,
everyone learns together.
Volunteers go to their local club for an hour a week and teach one project a week.
________________________________________________________________________________
Tirgan Community Centre
Youth Club Helper
Age 18+
The townland of Tirgan is midway between Moneymore and Desertmartin. Tirgan Hall Youth Club
takes place on Wednesday nights. There are two sessions: 6.30 - 8pm for ages 7-11 years
8pm – 9.30pm for ages 12-16 years
We will offer training opportunities, such as Health and Safety, Child Protection etc which will help
the volunteer who is interested in working with children.
Diabetes UK Northern Ireland
Diabetes UK Northern Ireland is dedicated to putting the interests of people with diabetes first,
through the best in campaigning, research and care. Help make a difference to the lives
of the 80,164 people living with diabetes in Northern Ireland. Our volunteers are at the heart of
Diabetes UK Northern Ireland. Without this support, Diabetes UK could not carry out its vital
work in research, education and care. Our volunteers bring skills, experience, energy,
enthusiasm and commitment to Diabetes UK. Volunteering can also make a difference in your
life too, letting you meet new people, learn new skills and have fun.
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Know Your Risk Assessment Volunteer
Know Your Risk is our campaign to raise awareness and help people reduce their risk of Type 2
diabetes. Our Roadshow bus will be visiting different locations throughout Northern Ireland and
we need volunteers to help us out!
There are a variety of different roles at a Know Your Risk event and you will be trained for each
element. They include carrying out the Know Your Risk questionnaire with members of the public,
which will involve:
Measuring people’s height, weight and waist
Asking relevant questions and explaining the risk factors of Type 2 diabetes
Giving basic lifestyle advice and signposting to the dietician where necessary
Referring people to visit their GP surgery for further tests, if appropriate
Encouraging attendees to seek Diabetes UK services, resources and information to help
them reduce their risk of Type 2 diabetes
Talking to members of the public to raise awareness of diabetes and the work of Diabetes
UK
Inviting members of the public to find out their risk of Type 2 diabetes and engage with us
further
Answering general queries, offering appropriate Diabetes UK publications/materials and
direct any medical or other specific questions to a member of staff or signpost to Diabetes
UK services/resources or a Healthcare Professional
Events Volunteer
Events volunteers help raise awareness of diabetes and Diabetes UK at events throughout the
area.
Speaker Scheme Volunteer
Speaker scheme volunteers give talks and presentations on behalf of Diabetes UK to groups in
their local communities.
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Springhill House, Moneymore
Age 18+
Springhill is a 17th-century plantation house outside Moneymore. It has been the property of
the National Trust since 1957 and, in addition to the house, gardens and park, there is a costume
collection and a purported ghost.
Event Volunteer
This is a great opportunity to work for the National Trust as a dedicated member of the Event
Team at Springhill. Springhill holds some fantastic events such as The Country Fair and The Vintage
Rally. We would like to recruit an energetic team to help us during these days. At any one time
you could be helping with crafts, games, tickets, the education team or car parking. Whatever
happens, you will enjoy the company of Springhill's team and you'll get to meet the multitude of
visitors.
Bookshop Volunteer
The bookshop which is located at the exit gate at Springhill which has had a revamp and is led by, a
very small attentive team that have brightened up and organised the loveable little cottage. The
existing team in the bookshop is friendly and very welcoming to any possible new starter
volunteers. It would be fantastic to have a full and enthusiastic team of bookshop volunteers to fill
our season's needs. There will be two volunteers in the bookshop at any one time; however, there
may be times you might be on your own. If you prefer to work alongside somebody that's no
problem, we will rota you in with another volunteer. This is your call! There will be money
handling and our great team that we have at Springhill will train you up. You will need to be
interested in books and have a good way with people.
Garden Nursery Volunteer
A seasonal role available from March to September which is an exciting opportunity to work
alongside the outdoor team selling plants and shrubs that have been propagated from our
indigenous collection on site. The Garden Nursery is located in the hub area of Springhill which is
within the Museum and facilities area. The role is available from 12 - 5pm and includes tasks such
as money handling, watering and arranging plants and is a public-facing opportunity.
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Wellbrook Beetling Mill
Meet and Greet Volunteers
Age 18+
Wellbrook, nestled in a wooded valley outside Cookstown, is the last working beetling mill in
Northern Ireland. The working water-powered mill was used in the manufacture of linen.
Volunteers will meet and greet visitors, help with money handling, facilitating visitors while they
wait for their tour and to clean up a little bit. This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual to
become part of the National Trust and its interpretation of an exceptional industrial heritage site
in Wellbrook Beetling Mill. You will be given the chance to learn the Mill tour and help to educate
the public so that they can understand how life was like working in such a wonderful but yet
demanding environment, if desired.
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children
NSPCC is the leading children's charity fighting to end child abuse in the UK and Channel Islands.
We help children who’ve been abused to rebuild their lives, protect those at risk and find the best
ways of preventing abuse from ever happening.
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Schools Service Volunteers
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Help children speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out Stay Safe programme is protecting a
generation of children against abuse one primary school at a time and we want you to join us.
As our volunteer, you'll visit local schools giving assemblies to children aged 4-11 and classroom
workshops to 9-11 year olds. You'll help them to understand abuse and give them the confidence
and courage to speak out and seek help if they ever need it. By delivering our programme to at
least two schools a month, you'll be making a massive difference, helping us fight for every
childhood in your local school's community. It's why we're here and we cannot do it without you.
Young Witness Supporter
Age 18+
The NSPCC’s Young Witness Service is recruiting volunteers to support young people who may
have to give evidence in criminal trials as victims or witnesses. Volunteer involvement is usually
during office hours on week days with occasional evenings. You must have an interest in and
experience of working with children, and have a driving licence or access to transport. The NSPCC’s
Young Witness Service is a free, independent and confidential service, provided by a team of social
work staff and volunteers - full training and out of pocket expenses will be provided. Whilst it can
be challenging, this is an extremely worthwhile and rewarding role that supports children through
a very difficult period in their lives.
Fundraiser
Age 16+
Do you like working in a team, having a laugh and helping to organise an event? Join a new NSPCC
support group in Cookstown/Magherafelt and have fun raising money to help vulnerable children.
NSPCC are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to give a minimal time commitment to help raise cash
and raise the profile of the charity. We need to organise a couple of events each year and need a
team of willing hands to help with these.
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Guide Dogs
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Guide Dogs are the world's largest breeder and trainer of working dogs. And thanks to our
dedicated staff and volunteers – and your vital donations – we’ve helped over 29,000 people to
achieve life-changing independence.
Volunteer Driver
Driving is a crucial service provided by Guide Dogs’ volunteers across the country. Dogs and
puppies often need to be transported short or long distances. Guide dog owners may also need
assistance from a four-wheeled friend with getting to a venue, or equipment may need
transporting to an event. All you need to help is an ordinary driving licence with the use of your
own vehicle, and be happy to carry dogs in your car. We pay the mileage and provide the
company! We’re not asking for lots of your time – by giving just a few hours a week you'll be
making a real difference by helping Guide Dogs enable blind and partially sighted people to enjoy
the same freedom of movement as everyone else.
My Guide
We’re looking for volunteer sighted guides who help blind and partially-sighted people feel less
isolated and become more involved in their communities. You can support someone in a wide
range of everyday activities including: going for coffee, shopping or going for a walk. We will. We
will provide you with the skills and confidence to guide someone safely, offer ongoing support and
reimburse out of pocket expenses. No matter how much time you can give you will be making a
difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people in your local community.
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Fundraiser
Age 16+
Guide Dogs is developing a new Volunteer Fundraising Group in Mid Ulster. Join our friendly team
and meet new people (as well as some of our fabulous four legged friends). You could be doing
anything from helping out at a street collection to selling our trading goods - from cuddly toy pups
to pens. Most importantly, by giving a few hours of your time, you'll be making a real difference by
helping Guide Dogs enable blind and partially sighted people to enjoy the same freedom of
movement as everyone else. We have lots of roles within this new group.
Campaigning Volunteers
Are you passionate about improving the lives of blind sighted people living in your local
community? If so support us by joining our other like minded campaigners across Northern
Ireland to ensure that blind and partially sighted people enjoy the same freedom of movement as
everyone else.
Other opportunities available within the Mid-Ulster area:
Fundraising Group Secretary
Fundraising Group Treasurer
Fundraising Volunteer
Collection Co-ordinator
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Broughderg Area Development Association
Marketing Volunteer
Age 18+
Broughderg Area Development Association has received funding to promote the Broughderg
Centre and the area surrounding it. Broughderg Centre is located in a rural community in the
Sperrins. It strives to reduce rural and social isolation through educational classed and social
activities while at the same time promote tourism.
We want to create a new website, produce brochures and audio visuals. The area is steeped in
history and archaeological landmarks and recently a new Forest Park has opened. We want to
promote the area and the centre so this is a great opportunity for a graduate in marketing to offer
a few hours. A good marketing knowledge is required for this role and also good communication
skills as there is a lot of contact with the Council, the management committee and other agencies.
________________________________________________________________________________
Praxis Care – Mental Health
Befriender with Adult Programme
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Age 18+
Praxis Mental Health is a group who promote awareness of mental ill health within the
community. Befriending volunteers are needed to offer one-to-one support and friendship to
people living locally in the community, who are experiencing mental ill-health.
Activities that volunteers may be expected to do include motivating clients to use local facilities
e.g. walking, leisure centre, library, shopping, calling for a tea/coffee in local cafe or just visiting
clients home for a tea and a chat.
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Praxis Care - Young People
Befriender
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The Befriending Service exists to offer young people who are in the process of leaving the care
system a trained volunteer who they can spend time with on a regular basis doing social
activities. This improves social skills, raises self-esteem and builds self-confidence.
Volunteers work on a one to one basis with a young person aged between 16‐21 years that are in
the process of leaving the care system. The befriending role consists of meeting up on a regular
basis with the young person and spending time together doing some kind of social activity. This
can be anything from just going for a coffee to going to the cinema, bowling, and ice skating or
going out for dinner. The activities are enjoyable for both parties and everything is funded. You
would be matched with a young person within a reasonable travelling distance. Activities are
arranged between the volunteer and young person themselves. Volunteers also receive travel
expenses. Volunteers will receive training before being matched with a young person so they
understand their role and feel confident in what they are being asked to do. Someone with an
open mind and a degree of patience would be ideal.
________________________________________________________________________________
Barnardos
Cookstown Charity Shop
Volunteer Retail Assistant
Age 16+
Running a successful Barnardo's store requires a great team of enthusiastic volunteers and you
could be part of it! Our volunteers come from a diverse range of backgrounds and bring a wide
variety of skills to the organisation. As little as two hours a week volunteering in our retail stores
could transform a child’s life, as well as bringing fulfilment, enjoyment and development to yours.
Based on Westland South Road, Cookstown.
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Arthritis Care
Age 18+
Arthritis Care acts on behalf of people in Northern Ireland who are affected by arthritis. We
provide them, their families and friends with support, understanding, information and expertise
so they can cope better with the impact of the condition and get the most out of life.
Support Volunteer for Cookstown Arthritis Care
18+
Cookstown Arthritis Care urgently requires a volunteer once a month to help deliver our service to
people who have arthritis. Activities involve helping to set up before and after each event,
assisting the service users to play games, making and serving tea and supporting the service users
on occasional outings. A friendly and chatty nature is required for this role.
Opportunities currently exist within Arthritis Care Northern Ireland in a variety of volunteering
roles.
Volunteer mentor/befriender – visit over 60’s in their homes to help them to re-engage
with the community by helping them self manage their long term condition
Become a campaigning volunteer
Become a volunteer with Staying Connected project - mentoring and befriending service
Join a local branch or group to help out on the committee
Become a training volunteer delivering our self-management courses to people with
arthritis (you must have arthritis yourself to take up this role)
Assist with fundraising, either by helping the resource development manager with a
regionally organised event, or by organising fundraising events in your local community
________________________________________________________________________________
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SAMARITANS OMAGH
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day to provide confidential emotional support for
people who are experiencing feelings of distress, despair or suicidal thoughts.
Could you touch another person's life when it really matters?
You can make an amazing difference at Samaritans. Our volunteers are changing lives every day,
and developing valuable skills and friendships along the way. We’re behind you all the way with
the training and support you need for the volunteer role you take on. Your training will show you
how to give your whole attention to each person you’re supporting, and empathise with their
feelings without being overwhelmed yourself.
Benefits of becoming a Samaritans volunteer
1. Change peoples’ lives
2. Contribute and share existing skills
3. Develop new listening and communication skills you can use in all aspects of your life
4. Meet new people from all different kinds of backgrounds and cultures
5. Improve your CV
6. Give something back to your local community
You’ll be surrounded by people with the same motivation as you. Whether you want to become a
listening volunteer, or use your other skills to support us in a different role, Omagh Samaritans
welcomes your support. We’re most known for our listening volunteer role, but some people
decide this isn’t for them. There are many other skills required to run Omagh branch of
Samaritans. Support volunteers help with the many other branch activities including: Fundraising,
Outreach, Publicity, IT Support and Finance.
We are not a religious organisation and we positively welcome enquiries from all sections of the
community. You don’t need to have previous experience or qualifications, but you do need to be
interested in other people and be open-minded.
________________________________________________________________________________
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CDM Community Transport
Drivers
Passenger Assistants
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Our main aim is to reduce social isolation in the Cookstown district by providing affordable &
accessible transport. Volunteers are required for the Community Car Scheme. Could you spare a
few hours a week to help transport members to activities such as health appointments,
employment, shopping & other trips? Volunteers are also required to drive the community
minibus. All drivers will be trained to MIDAS standard (Minibus Drivers Awareness Scheme) & paid
mileage & subsistence. We also require passenger assistants to help members on & off the bus
and occasionally to assist them carrying out some tasks, e.g. shopping.
________________________________________________________________________________
Action on Hearing Loss NI
Access NI check required
Action on Hearing Loss Northern Ireland represents the 260,000 people who are deaf, have a
hearing loss or tinnitus, as well as their families & others who work with them or for their benefit.
Our staff and volunteers offer a wide range of services, including communication, advice &
information, care & employment services.
Information Stand Volunteer - As an Information Stand Volunteer you will provide information on
deafness, hearing loss and tinnitus to deaf and hard of hearing older people, their families and
carers, local community groups and organisations.
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Action on Hearing Loss Presenter - You will be networking and establishing links with local groups and
organisations and delivering talks and presentations to a range of audiences.
Lead Information Volunteer - As Lead Information Volunteer you will be the key contact for all other
information service volunteers in your local area.
Equipment Support Volunteer - As an Equipment Support Volunteer you will provide
information and product demonstrations to visitors to our hubs in Belfast, Derry/Londonderry and
Omagh who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
Digital Champion Volunteer - Assist with delivering basic online skills sessions to groups or
individuals who are deaf or have hearing loss to enable them to increase their confidence and
ability to use new technology.
Information Volunteer - Assist people with a hearing loss at our information stands across
Northern Ireland. Provide information and support to those who need it.
InTouch Befriender - Help service users contact, enable them to integrate more fully into the
general community and provide increased opportunity to participate in activities. Enhance the
quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing people in the community.
Fundraising and Events Volunteer - You can become part of the volunteer team, and help with our
numerous fundraising activities, in varying places all over Northern Ireland.
Tinnitus Support Volunteer - Assist the Tinnitus Support Officer in the provision of the Action on
Hearing Loss Tinnitus Support Service.
Hearing Aid Support Volunteer - This role is to help assist hearing aid users adapt to using a
hearing aid and to overcome initial problems they may encounter.
_______________________________________________________________________________
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Cookstown Community Cancer Charity
Shop Volunteers
Age 16+
Cookstown Community Cancer Charity (The 4C’s) is your new, totally voluntary, non-profit making local
charity situated in the middle of the main street. The charity aims to bring lasting and positive change to
the lives of all patients and their carers in Cookstown and the surrounding locality. We will provide an
accessible and welcoming environment wherein they can enjoy free therapies such as reflexology and
massage, beauty treatments, take part in recreational activities and obtain invaluable knowledge, advice
and counselling through our befriending support group.
To provide these services we hope to raise funds by opening our new charity shop and by
introducing our unique ‘Meet and Greet’ facility where everyone is welcome to call in, have a
tea/coffee, meet with friends, chat with our charming and friendly hostess or simply relax and chill
out. Soon, as we get established we hope to expand and provide ‘pop-up’ stalls, zumba and line
dancing classes etc. To help us in this work and to ensure the success of your local charity we are
appealing for help to assist in the shop by sorting all merchandise, serving customers or offering
any skills that may benefit the service we are providing.
MindWise
MindWise is a leading mental health charity which supports those affected by severe mental
illness and other mental health difficulties and promotes earlier intervention. To help make this
a success they are looking for individuals to spare a few hours a week to volunteer.
They currently have volunteer opportunities in the following roles:
Fundraising Volunteers (Northern Ireland wide)
________________________________________________________________________________
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Action Cancer
Charity Shop Volunteers
Age 16+
Action Cancer is a Northern Ireland cancer charity, established in 1973. Our mission is to save
lives and support people and maintain a pioneering role in the development of cancer services.
Action Cancer works across Northern Ireland providing early detection services for the Northern
Ireland community, counselling and support services for cancer patients and their families and
providing cancer prevention and health promotions.
Volunteers provide a valuable service in helping Action Cancer reach the values of the
organisation. Cookstown Action Cancer charity shop requires volunteers from Mon-Sat. Tasks
include sorting/pricing of merchandise, serving customers & operating the till. If you have a few
spare hours a week and would like to meet new people and learn new skills we would love to have
you as part of the team. The shop is a wonderful boutique look store that is changing the charity
store image.
The Hub BT80
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The Hub BT80 'Centred Around You' is an all inclusive community base providing the opportunity for
members of the Cookstown area to come together to learn new skills, share resources and knowledge
and create a better sense of belonging to the Cookstown area. It aims to create skills and resources to
empower members to become more confident and self sufficient. We need volunteers that are part of
the community to create and sustain the centre as a whole. We envisage the participation and ideas
generated by volunteers will be vital in sustaining the centre. The Hub BT80 is situated on the Burn
Road, Cookstown.
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Craft Fayre Helpers
Would you be able to help at regular craft fayres each month? The craft fayres are held on a Saturday.
Adult Assistant
Volunteers are required to help man the centre during the evenings specifically for our Youth Band
Sessions. We need responsible adults with an active interest in Music and Youth to help facilitate, organise
and develop the talent the town has in this area. You will get to be involved with the musical sessions and
will be part of a team to ensure that the safety and well-being of the attendees is implemented whilst
creating a fun and creative atmosphere for all to enjoy. We would be particularly interested in anyone who
has musical ability and/or can play an instrument.
Tutor(s)
Age 16+
These volunteer roles have been identified to help pass skills onto others in the community - our research
has concluded that people in the Cookstown area want to learn a number of skills from music and drama to
basic cooking, sewing and craft. We would love to hear from people who have any of the above skills - or
any others that they would like to suggest - with a view to running informal classes to help build community
skills and resources in a social and non-pressurised atmosphere.
General Assistant
Age 16+
Volunteers are required to help man the centre during the day - overseeing lunch facilities, interacting with
people who use the facility - ensuring all runs smoothly. It would be a chance to develop your skills in
organisation and customer service as well as working within a team. It would also give you the opportunity
to meet and interact with local people and actively contribute to building the centre.
________________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Ulster Child Contact Centre –
Cookstown & Magherafelt
Centre Helper
Age 16+
Access NI check required
Mid Ulster Child Contact Centre aims to provide a child friendly, safe, neutral environment in
which children can spend time with a parent or significant other person (e.g. Grandparent) with
whom they no longer live following family separation.
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Contact Centre Opening Hours:
Cookstown Centre: Wed 6pm - 7.30pm
Sat 11am - 1pm
Magherafelt Centre: Sat 10am - 12 noon
A rota is made out every three months and volunteers are asked to commit to one contact
session per month. For most volunteers this would be one session every 4-5 weeks.
Aware Defeat Depression
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Our mission is to support people experiencing or at risk of experiencing depression and their
carers throughout Northern Ireland by providing information and advice, promoting self help,
instigating and supporting research and working for changes in public attitude and statutory
health care provision.
Support Group Facilitator
The purpose of this role is to facilitate Aware Support Groups
Your activities may include:
Preparing for meetings and ensuring that the room is open and ready at least 30 minutes
before the meeting is due to start
Greeting support group members as they arrive and distribution of literature
Giving information to the group about Aware’s other services via welcome pack
Facilitating at the group meetings and adhering to support group model
Assisting with annual survey of support group members
Awareness Ambassador
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The purpose of this role is to assist in the provision of information to people affected by or at risk
of being affected by depression at Primary Care and Community Level
Your activities may include:
Identifying and targeting a range of suitable local outlets for information about depression
Aware Defeat Depression e.g. GP’s, Practice Nurses, Practice Managers, Pharmacies,
Libraries, Advice and Day Centres, Social Security Offices etc.
Ensuring the supply of up-to-date and relevant information to such outlets and services
Liaising with health professionals and other staff at the outlets with regard to the service
you provide and the needs of the outlet.
Representing and promoting the organisation e.g. at exhibitions, information days and
health fairs
Raising awareness of the needs of people affected by depression
Delivering standard presentations to local community groups (this will not be required of
all volunteers)
Responsibilities
To keep accurate records of work and provide copies to your supervisor along with a
personal expenses claim form.
Commitment to keep up-to-date with resources and services provided by Aware Defeat
Depression
To attend support & supervision sessions and training events as requested
All volunteers will receive an induction, training and on-going support. Out of pocket expenses
are available.
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Shopmobility Cookstown
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Shopmobility is a scheme which lends manual wheelchairs & powered scooters to members of
the public with limited mobility to shop & to visit leisure & commercial facilities within the town
or shopping centre. Shop mobility is for anyone, young or old, whether their disability is
temporary or permanent. It is available for those with injuries, long or short term disabilities –
anyone who needs help with mobility. Shopmobility is about the freedom to get around. You
do not need to be registered disabled to use it.
Sight Guide Volunteer
Shopmobility Cookstown in partnership with RNIB is looking to launch a Sight Guide project. This
will provide those with Visual Impairments and Blind the opportunity to have a sighted guide to
assist them around the shops and town centre. The Sighted Guide will assist the person around
shops and help to read labels, pricing and offer general assistance. Based from Shopmobility
within the Burnavon Arts Centre, Burn Road, and Cookstown. Scheme is available Monday to
Friday. Volunteers must be 18+ and will undergo visual awareness training and role specific
training.
Saturday Volunteer Assistant
Volunteers are required to provide an advisory, supportive & mentoring service to our service
users. They issue users with equipment & assist in the training of users. At times volunteers are
required to escort users around shops & local facilities. Bookings are only taken on the availability
of volunteers. There is not much paper work involved, although volunteers will be required to
accurately record equipment usage & other basic admin duties. Some PR activities may be
required such as the distribution of leaflets & street collections. Shopmobility is located in the
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Burnavon Arts & Cultural Centre, Cookstown. Volunteers are paid out of pocket expenses,
provided with a uniform & the opportunity for training.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Share Holiday Village, Lisnaskea
Age 16+
Access NI Check required
Volunteers are required to assist qualified outdoor and arts staff in providing children, people with
disabilities, young people and the elderly with a wide range of activities which include canoeing,
climbing, archery, arts & crafts and boat trips. Volunteers will act in a caring capacity to ensure all
guests participate fully and enjoy the activity. All activities take place at the Share Holiday Village
which is open all year round and is located 3 miles outside Lisnaskea on the Derrylin Road.
Weekend Activities – Helping staff deliver a programme of water and land based activities to
groups of all ages and abilities.
Arts – Assisting in the delivery of various art projects with groups.
Work Camp – A 5 day residential aimed at site and building maintenance.
Carer/Companion – A 7 day residential assisting guests with disabilities.
Full Time/Long term – 3 – 12 months placement within the various departments at Share.
British Red Cross Red Cross
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The Red Cross helps people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. We are part of a global
voluntary network, responding to conflicts, natural disasters and individual emergencies.
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Support at Home Volunteer 18 +
We are urgently seeking volunteers who can give just 1 hour per week of their time to help us. We
reimburse all mileage to volunteers at 45p per mile.
Tasks can include:
• A short visit to someone who has no other outside contact
• Taking someone to the supermarket
• Taking someone to a medical/dental/hospital appointment
• Simply bringing someone home from hospital
We are offering a lifeline to those people who are lonely and isolated and are hoping that you can
help us make a difference.
Transport Volunteer 18+
We are urgently seeking transport volunteers who can give some of their time to help us.
We reimburse all mileage to volunteers at 45p per mile.
Tasks can include taking someone to a medical/dental/hospital appointment or simply bringing
someone home from hospital.
We are offering a lifeline to those people who are lonely and isolated and are hoping that you can
help us make a difference.
Volunteers will be required to attend a Foundation Induction course (approx 2 days) and will be
required to complete an AccessNI application.
________________________________________________________________________________
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Cookstown Multiple Sclerosis Help & Support Group
Support Group Volunteer
Age 18+
Access NI check required
We are a charitable organisation that facilitates a group of individuals to meet together in order to
improve the quality of their lives. Anyone who has been diagnosed with MS can join (& also their
families & carers) who live in Cookstown area. Members can meet with each other & have a chat
& cup of tea & exchange views on their condition & general health. The group offers treatments
such as, reflexology, reiki, chiropody, boccia, information days/ speakers, and also have a book
club. The group also includes a fully qualified counsellor. Social benefits include evenings out,
networking with other groups, day trips, group meals & fundraising events. We require volunteers
who can assist our members at the weekly meetings, help with tea/coffee, assist members to &
from bathroom & also take them to & from therapies we have on that day.
The Base - Cookstown
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The primary function of the Base is to maintain friendships and/or develop new friendships. It acts as a
base for leisure and social activities within the local community for adults with learning disabilities. The
Base aims to have a team of volunteers to complement and support the work of the Base Co-ordinator.
Volunteers assist the individuals of the Base to engage in weekly activities such as leisure, crafts and
sporting activities; or if you have a specific talent or skill you would like to share, we would like to hear from
you. This is a great opportunity to gain experience working with adults with learning disabilities either on a
one to one basis or in a group.
THE BASE
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The promotion of opportunities, in the heart of the community,
for adults with a learning disability.
________________________________________________________________________________
Caudwell Children
Family Support Volunteers
18+
Access NI check required
Caudwell Children offers a free and friendly service that offers flexible practical and emotional
support to families at a time of crisis. Volunteers work with the Family Support Team to change
the futures of families with disabled children. Volunteers need to undertake training and be able
to commit to 2 hours per week for 6 weeks.
To visit families who care for a disabled child who need family support
To provide families with information they need to make informed decisions
To provide practical and emotional support within the family home
To record support, and maintain records as required
To ensure the work undertaken complies with Safeguard and Child Protection, Equal
Opportunities, Health & Safety and other policies and the guidelines by Caudwell Children
The role is subject to a Access NI Check
Ability to travel around, out of pocket travelling expenses will be provided
Willingness to undertake training, review and internal meetings as required
Ongoing support and supervision is available to the volunteer e.g. 6 weekly supervision.
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Cancer Choices
Age 18+
Cancer Choices is an independent patient led organisation based in Dungannon which was established in
2003 to support people with cancer and their families and carers. We offer a wide range of free services
which range from 1-1 support, complementary therapies, bra fitting service, benefits and welfare advice,
self management programmes and holistic healing.
In addition to these services we are actively involved in the community providing information, health
checks and screening at events throughout the year.
Volunteers are crucial to Cancer Choices and as a growing organisation there are many ways you can get
involved which include:
Befriending
Gardening
Fundraising
Housekeeping
Complementary Therapist
Beauty Therapists
Hairdresser
Charity Shop
All volunteers will receive full training and induction and will have the support of the Volunteer Manager at
all times. Some of the above opportunities require an Access NI check. Volunteers will be reimbursed all
travel and out of pocket expenses. Cancer Choices recognise the value that different backgrounds, skills,
outlooks and experiences volunteers bring to the organisation and we are committed to equal
opportunities and diversity.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Ballinderry Rivers Trust
Age 16+
Ballinderry Rivers Trust is dedicated to the conservation of Ballinderry River, its fresh water
species and habitats, its fisheries and the education and empowerment of the catchment
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community in the protection of the river. The organisation is a not for profit so it relies on the
help of volunteers and the local community to allow it to operate and function.
Working in partnership with the local community, Northern Ireland’s government departments
and non-government organisations, Ballinderry Fish Hatchery Ltd carries out breeding
programmes for locally and globally threatened freshwater species, river habitat enhancement
and restoration projects, water quality improvement initiatives and education and awareness
programmes in the Ballinderry and further afield.
Riverfly Monitor
The Riverfly Partnership is a network of nearly 100 partner organisations, representing anglers,
conservationists, entomologists, scientists, water course managers and relevant authorities, working
together to: - protect the water quality of our rivers; - further the understanding of riverfly populations; -
and actively conserve riverfly habitats.
We need Riverfly Monitors to come and train with us and adopt a section of the river to look after and help
us protect the amazing Ballinderry River for future generations.
Fish Monitor
Volunteers are required to assist in the monitoring of fish numbers in the Ballinderry River. This will involve
catching fish, measuring fish, releasing fish and recording all the required information. Other
measurements may also be required. Training will be provided and anyone with a keen interest in the
environment or rivers would find this of interest. This role would be on an ad hoc basis and may equate to
20 full days a year (more or less).
Hatchery Assistant
Assist staff in the running of our fish hatchery. 3 more volunteers are needed to assist the man in charge.
Again training will be provided. The days required will vary from season to season and week to week.
Duties would include removing mortalities from the tanks, cleaning of tanks, feeding of fish and general
cleaning duties. This would suit someone with an interest in animal husbandry or fish welfare.
Fish Restocking
Volunteers are required to assist staff when putting stock out in to the river. Must be able to climb fences
and navigate over rough/slippery terrain. Again these would be ad hoc positions but they could also be the
volunteers who are filling the hatchery roles. Training will be provided.
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River Guardian Volunteers
The Ballinderry River Guardian Project uses volunteers to monitor water quality throughout the Ballinderry
and Salterstown catchments. Volunteers are assigned sites and trained to monitor the water quality
through biological sampling of freshwater macroinvertebrates and water chemistry. Once trained
volunteers will be fully equipped and expected to monitor their site on a monthly basis.
Learning Guides
Age 18+
These volunteers will assist the Learning and Outreach Officer in the design and delivery of educational
activities and assist at events. These volunteers may need to obtain their Access NI. Again this role will be
on an ad hoc basis but if the project proves to be popular there may well be scope for more hours. Training
will be provided.
Tiny Life
Mid Ulster Area
Access NI Check required
Established in 1988 by a group of health professionals and concerned mums, Tiny Life is
committed to funding medical research into the causes of premature birth, stillbirth and
miscarriage and providing information to professionals and parents-to-be to ensure that every
pregnancy has the best chance of a healthy outcome and a healthy baby. Tiny life also offers
practical and emotional support to ensure that parents of premature and ill babies get all the
help they need. We need volunteers for our:
Family Support Service
Age 22+
Volunteers will provide practical, social and emotional support to families in their local area for a
morning or afternoon once a week (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). Becoming a TinyLife Volunteer is a very
rewarding and life enhancing experience. We are committed to ensuring that everyone who
volunteers with TinyLife enjoys their experience. You will learn new skills, make new friends, have
a sense of achievement and become part of the TinyLife team. However, it does require a huge
commitment and not just in terms of hours. Two full days training is provided and a minimum
commitment of 1 year is required. In addition to the above criteria, we would ask that anyone
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who has had a life changing event in the last year such as birth of a child, bereavement etc, to
defer their application until they are able to commit to the role. Travel expenses are reimbursed.
Fundraising Team
Age 16+
Volunteers needed to assist in events, either on the day or in preparation and planning.
Organisational Awareness
Age 16+
Distribute leaflets and fliers around the local community and health premises, i.e. libraries, GP
surgeries, Hospitals etc. Manning exhibition stands with the fundraising or family support teams.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Include Youth
Mentor
Age 21+
Access NI check required
The Give & Take Scheme provides a mentoring service to young people in need or at risk between
the ages of 16 - 21 years old. The mentoring relationship will focus on the personal development
of the young person. Each young person will be matched with a mentor who will meet them for
two to three hours per week for a minimum period of one year. It provides the opportunity to
create a nonjudgmental relationship where young people have the opportunity to discuss issues
that are affecting them. A mentor can help a young person to set and achieve goals, and develop
their skills and sense of self. We have young people living throughout the Northern Board area
that volunteers would be participating in various social activities. It would be helpful if the
volunteers could drive but if they are happy to use public transport that is fine. The northern
board area covers Antrim, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, Cookstown, Larne,
Magherafelt, Moyle and Newtownabbey.
Please bear in mind a minimum commitment of 1 year is required for this role.
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Royal National Institute for the Blind
Age 18+
Access NI check required
RNIB is the UK’s leading charity offering information, support and advice to over 2 million
people with sight loss. Our pioneering work helps anyone with a sight problem – not just with
Braille and Talking Books but with imaginative and practical solutions to everyday challenges.
We need you to get involved to support our vital work. As a charity we rely on your generosity.
All relevant training will be provided.
Reader Support
Do you have a love affair with books? Is reading important to you? Do you like talking about
books and meeting people? If so, this is the ideal volunteering role for you. By becoming a
Reading Support volunteer you’ll help a blind or partially sighted person continue to read, or even
re discover the joy of reading.
Online Skills Trainer
Would you like to help people with sight loss explore the options of getting online? Could you
share your knowledge and enthusiasm to help people engage with technology? You will show
people how to use a computer, tablet or smart phone to get online, deliver group training and
demonstrations and visit people in their home to help them with basic online skills.
Fundraising Group Member
Age 16+
Volunteer with us and help make everyday better for blind and partially sighted people.
We aim to set up a new RNIB Cookstown Fundraising Group to raise awareness about our services
and organise and/or support fundraising activities in the Cookstown area.
This will involve being a part of a new group who will collectively take forward activities. These
can range from collections, holding small events to securing support from local businesses, groups
and associations.
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Head Injury Family Support Group
Fundraiser
Age 18+
Head Injury Family Support Group is a local charity which was set up to give financial and moral
assistance to families of a head injured person. It is often said that it is a family with a head
injury – not just a person as it affects the whole family. It is these families that we strive to
support. Approximately 2000 people are affected by an acquired brain injury (ABI) in Northern
Ireland each year.
Would you like to become a volunteer to help those families?
Volunteers are required for fundraising activities throughout Northern Ireland. This could include
a bag pack, coffee morning, table quiz, charity run/walk. This is just an example - ‘Do you have any
ideas’? Come and talk to us and give us your suggestions!
________________________________________________________________________________
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
Mid Ulster Area
Age 18+
The RSPB is the UK charity working to secure a healthy environment for birds & all wildlife,
helping to create a better world for everyone. Our conservation work ranges from education to
campaigning, from people engagement to bird recovery projects. The need for our work
increases as the pressure on the environment grows, and this is where you can come in.
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Residential Volunteer - Short Term Placement - Portmore Lough
Are you passionate about nature conservation and helping visitors experience the beauty of
Portmore Lough? If so and you like a new challenge we would love to hear from you to be involved
in Northern Irelands brand new Residential Volunteering Scheme.
We need enthusiastic people who are quick to learn, to join our team of reserve volunteers and
help us create a home for Nature. You will gain practical experience in conservation land
management and people engagement. Practical work will vary from habitat management on the
wet grassland habitat to continuing to create the Giving Nature a Home wildlife garden. Survey
work will include waders, breeding birds, butterfly and invertebrate surveys. You will also be
involved in reserve events and should the need arise have the opportunity to work at other RSPB
reserves throughout Northern Ireland. You will also be closely involved with The Futurescapes
Project working with the Community Engagement Officer both at the Reserve and with outreach
projects.
We need someone who is enthusiastic and friendly, who likes a new challenge as we enter this
new project. Every day can be different on a reserve like Portmore and you will need to be flexible
in your approach to your work. You must be happy to work outside in all weathers, doing what can
be challenging physical work. Some weekend working will be essential to run reserve events.
You must be 18, and a full clean driving licence is desirable due to the remote location of the
reserve. Minimum commitment: 2 weeks
Pin Badge Box Minder
Do you have a couple of hours to spare each month?
Enjoy catching up with your friends over a drink at the nearby cafe?
Perhaps you like the retail therapy of shopping on your days off. Or maybe you venture out
frequently to your local garden centre to purchase more plants for your ever-expanding garden?
We are looking for volunteers in Derry, Newry, Lisburn, Enniskillen, Armagh and the North Coast to
join our ever-expanding pin-badge volunteer team and place and visit pin badge boxes in sites
such as shops, cafes and garden centres. You can help raise up to £1,000 a year for the RSPB in
locations such as these! If you can help look after these boxes in one these areas then we would
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be delighted to hear from you. Together, we can all help to give nature a home by helping raise
vital funds for conservation.
You will need to be able to visit your sites every 4-6 weeks in order to collect and pay in all
donations raised, as well as replenishing your boxes. Minimum commitment: a few hours a
month.
The Scout Association
Scout Leaders/Helpers
Age 16
Access NI check required
The purpose of Scouting is to contribute to the development of young people in achieving their full
physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as
members of their local, national and international communities. The Scout Association in the UK
accepts Members of all major faiths and offers equal opportunities to all young people in the
community, no matter what their social, religious or ethnic background may be. It provides
adventurous activities and personal development opportunities for young people aged 6-25.
The age groups:
Squirrels (4-6yrs), Beavers (6-8yrs), Cubs (8-10½yrs), Scouts (10½ - 14yrs), Explorers (14 - 18yrs),
Network (18 – 25)
Scouting is open to boys and girls.
As a Scout leader/helper you will become part of a vibrant team assisting in the planning and
organising of weekly activities following the six programme areas – beliefs and attitudes,
community, fitness, creative, global and outdoor and adventure for your preferred age group in
order to help children and young people grow and develop in many aspects of their lives.
You would provide activities which involve young people ‘learning by doing’ e.g. games, crafts,
camp craft, pioneering, projects, first aid, climbing, survival skills, canoeing, caving, archery, hiking,
camps, international camps, expeditions, community support and lots more. Scouts can also work
for a number of awards, including the Queen’s Scout Award and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
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________________________________________________________________________________
Marie Curie Cancer Care
Marie Curie Helper Volunteer
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The Marie Curie Helper service is provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one support
to people with a terminal illness (cancer and other illnesses), completely free of charge. This
support may continue for their carers and families after bereavement.
Marie Curie Helper volunteers support people in their homes, offering a few hours of their time
each week to provide a listening ear and companionship; give families and carers a short break
from their caring role; offer practical support, such as accompanying individuals to appointments
or simply going out for a coffee. A Marie Curie Helper does not provide any nursing or medical
care or advice.
Our Helper volunteers are provided with training and support to enable them to undertake their
roles. Our Helpers undertake their roles within approximately 10 radius of their own home and
are required for 3 hours per week. Volunteers are invited to attend a 2 hour information session
following which they meet with the service manager for a selection interview. Successful
volunteers are then invited to a 2and a half day training programme. Ongoing training and
supportive events take place throughout the year.
A minimum commitment of 1 year is required. Travel is reimbursed.
Marie Curie Charity Shop, Cookstown
Charity Shop Volunteers
Age 16+
Marie Curie currently runs around 180 charity shops across the UK which helps to raise funds
needed to care for terminally ill people and their families. Our shops are reliant on the
generosity of local people – whether they donate or shop with us. Each shop also depends on a
dedicated team of volunteers.
Tasks include operating the till, sorting & preparing goods for sale, by checking, hanging, steaming
& sizing of goods before they are placed on the shop floor. It may also include pricing. Volunteers
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should be able to work as part of a team & have a pleasant, helpful & cheerful manner.
Reasonable physical health is required as the work may involve moving bags or boxes.
Box collectors/Leaflet distributors
Marie Curie is appealing for volunteers 18+ to commit to 2-3 hours per month to help with the
collection of fundraising cans throughout the Cookstown area. Other roles involve distributing
flyers/posters for volunteers 16+. Good communication skills and a friendly nature is required.
Experience of counting cash is desired but not essential.
Gold SureStart, Cookstown
(Gold Community Partnership)
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Gold Surestart is a government funded organisation that works specifically for families with
children under 4, with the overall aim of Surestart being to "improve the well being and life
opportunities" so that "children can flourish."
Crèche/Two Year Old Support Volunteer
We are currently hoping to recruit Volunteers to support our staff in our crèches which support
our parenting programmes or in our Two Year Programme. Volunteers will help children reach
their full developmental potential in a way that meets the individual needs of the child whilst fully
supported by staff at all times. We have a number of sites within GOLD Surestart where the
volunteer could potentially volunteer these include, Cookstown, Ardboe, Dunamore, Kileenan,
Pomeroy and Maghera. Volunteers attend regular supervision and support sessions. Full induction
training is carried out by the volunteer coordinator along with ongoing training. All training will
provide a valuable asset for anyone interested in working with children
Minimum Commitment - 6 months. All volunteers are eligible for travel expenses.
Volunteer Driver
SureStart provides a transport service for some members who require assistance to attend
hospital appointments. Volunteers are needed to drive the person to and from the hospital. A
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knowledge and confidence of driving to Antrim/Belfast/Craigavon is required and all travel
expenses are reimbursed.
Lissan House Trust
Age 17+
A legacy to the community after 400 years
Lissan House, established in the early 17th Century, nestles in the wooded valley of the Lissan
Water just three miles north of Cookstown. Extending to over 267 acres, the estate was owned
and managed by the Staples family through four centuries until the death in April 2006, of Mrs
Hazel Dolling, daughter of Sir Robert Staples Bt. The entire estate, bequeathed to the
community, was left in the care of the Friends of Lissan Trust, which has undertaken the task of
raising finance for the restoration and development. Lissan House re-opened to the public in
April 2012 and are appealing for volunteer help for various opportunities. Some of these
opportunities may require previous experience or skills depending on the nature of the role.
The Great Outdoors
Maintaining the estate is an on-going job and tasks would include grass cutting, strimming and
ensuring all walking paths are accessible to the general public. Ensuring the car park, play area and
the outside of the house are clean and tidy to welcome visitors.
Housekeeping
Ensuring the house is clean and tidy for visitors arriving which would entail basic housekeeping
skills such as polishing furniture, hoovering, brushing and washing floors.
Work in Tearoom
Duties of this post would include taking orders, the preparation and serving of tea, coffee and
light snacks. A Basic Food Hygiene qualification would be essential.
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AGE NI
Fundraising Volunteer
Age 16+
Helping plan and carry out fundraising events for Age NI.
Assisting with Collections/Bag packs in public places e.g. Supermarkets
Placing/Collecting collection tins in public places raising awareness and promoting the
services which Age NI provides
Support with local fundraising events and activities eg Christmas/Easter hamper making
and delivery of hampers
Organising fundraising events
Taking part in fundraising events
There is also the possibility of quite a few ad-hoc type volunteer roles throughout the year, such as
supporting events by attending, taking photographs and supporting the fundraising team.
LILAC
Age 18+
Access NI check required
LILAC (Living is Life after Cancer) was established in 2003 in response to an identified need in our
community for emotional support for cancer sufferers and their families. LiLAC is a local self-
help support group committed to caring, listening to and supporting those affected by cancer
and their families in an informal, caring and confidential environment. We also offer relaxation
therapies such as Reflexology, Reiki and Chi-Massage to our users. LiLAC also provides practical
help to those undergoing treatment e.g. help with housework, transport to and from hospital
etc.
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Admin/Committee Member Volunteers
LiLAC is looking to expand the skills of their committee and are appealing for any volunteer help
available. Committee members are expected to attend a one hour meeting per month (the first
Tuesday of each month) with a minimum commitment of 8 per year.
Regardless of backgrounds each member can offer a unique contribution and/or skill to the group.
Additionally, LiLAC would keenly consider the concept of time bank volunteers where a person
from another organisation would share their skill to enhance the work of an organisation and in
return someone would do the same with a different skill or quality.
Shop Assistant
Volunteers are needed to help out at their new charity shop in Molesworth Street, Cookstown.
This is a great opportunity to meet new people & increase your communication skills &
confidence, not to mention doing something worthwhile. Opening hours are Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.
Volunteer Driver
Lilac assists and support clients during their course of treatments. Volunteers are required to
drive clients to hospital appointments which may be in Antrim or Belfast. Preferably the volunteer
must have access to transport but is not essential as Lilac can provide a car. An allowance for
lunch is provided and if using your own transport travel costs will be reimbursed. Knowledge of
the area and a certain level of confidence driving to the venue are essential.
Befriender/Home Helper
Volunteers are required to visit cancer patients in their homes to offer some friendly company &
possibly do a little light housework.
Fundraiser
Volunteers are always needed on a regular basis to help out at various events throughout the
community to help raise vital funds for Lilac Cancer Care. Events include street/store collections,
supermarket bag packs, fun days & many others. Any help you can offer is greatly appreciated.
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The Stroke Association
Age 18+
Access NI Check Required
The Stroke Association is the major stroke charity in the UK. We work with people who share
our commitment to changing the world for people affected by stroke.
Befriender
The Stroke Association Befriending Scheme aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness, build the
confidence and self-esteem of stroke survivors, including those with a communication disability.
This service is also available to family members and carers. Volunteers provide a listening ear,
information, advice, support and guidance. Support is provided on a 1:1 basis according to their
individual needs either face to face, on the phone, online or in the community.
The role will include supporting people to achieve personal goals and become more independent.
Benefits for you:
Practical experience of working with people who have been affected by stroke
An understanding and awareness of stroke and its effects and the challenges people face after
stroke
An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills
An opportunity to engage with your local community
An opportunity to gain experience with a well-respected charity delivering sector-leading
services
Stage 3 Communication Support Group Volunteer
Cookstown – each Tuesday from 10am - 12noon
About 30% of stroke survivors will experience communication difficulties after their stroke which
can make daily living extremely challenging. As a Communication Service Supporter you will be
supporting stroke survivors whose communication has been affected by their stroke to develop
new strategies to aid their communication.
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Tasks include:
Providing focused support to facilitate the communication of stroke survivors in small groups,
known as workshop blocks that last between 6 – 12 weeks.
Providing focused support to facilitate the communication of stroke survivors on a 1:1 basis in
their homes.
Providing focused support to facilitate the communication of stroke survivors to enable them
to access activities and services in their local community.
Where a service is able to provide more long term support you may have the opportunity to
support stroke survivors in a group setting that offers more social/informal activities.
Helping to develop and deliver new communication activities or ways of supporting stroke
survivors.
Volunteers will receive induction training and will be given appropriate training to the
individuals needs for all roles.
Newhaven Supported Housing/
Woodlands Beacon Centre
Activity Volunteer/Befriender
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Niamh (Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health) is the largest and longest established
independent charity focusing on mental health and wellbeing services in Northern Ireland.
Niamh is structured as a group consisting of three elements: Beacon, Carecall and Inspire.
• We provide high quality, professional and innovative services
• we enable positive outcomes for the people who use our services
• we act with integrity and compassion
• we engage with and inspire each other
• we influence policy and public opinion
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Beacon
Provides support services to people with experience of mental illness through supported housing,
day support and advocacy services. Beacon is the largest division in the group.
Carecall
Provides therapeutic support through employee assistance programmes and specialist therapeutic
services delivered in a wide variety of contexts.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Charis Integrated Cancer Care
Reception Volunteers
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Charis Integrated Cancer Care support men and women affected by cancer at every stage of
their journey. We also assist and support the families and supporters of those living with cancer
or any family member bereaved by cancer.
CHARIS are in much need of volunteer assistance in the centre. The role involves meeting &
greeting clients, making tea/coffee and possibly having an informal chat with the client while they
wait on their treatment or service they have come for.
Volunteers are required to have good communication skills and a friendly, kind & empathetic
nature.
At present Thursday & Friday are busy days when most help is needed, although any help on other
days would be hugely appreciated.
This is a great opportunity to meet people & help your local community.
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NHSCT
Age 18+
Access NI Check required
Sharing the Care Scheme
Sharing the Care was specifically developed to support families caring for a child with a
disability. It aims to provide a reliable and flexible service designed to give parents or carers a
break.
Short Break Carers
The scheme provides regular short breaks to parents and carers. Short break carers provide
breaks within the short break carer’s home and these can last from a few hours to overnight stays.
The service offers short breaks to children up to the age of 18 years with a wide variety of
disabilities. Some may have a severe learning disability; others may have a severe physical
disability or sensory impairment, while others may have a combination of disabilities.
Befrienders
Befriending is another one of the range of services offered by the sharing the Care Scheme.
Often Young people with a disability do not have the same social opportunities as their peers.
Befriending enables disabled young people to access a range of community and or leisure services
while also providing a break to parents/carers. Befrienders are matched to a particular young
person whom they take out on a regular basis usually weekly or fortnightly. They may go to the
cinema, swimming, bowling, shopping, walking, or to an activity club for example.
The scheme provides training, an allowance to cover expenses and support to all carers.
Volunteers are expected to undertake training and an assessment prior to approval.
Share the Care
Share the Care is a family based respite provision that offers respite to adults with learning
disabilities, physical disabilities and sensory impairment.
This enables these adults to get a break from their normal routine and also offers their carers to
have a break. Planned short breaks can be a welcome break from the sometimes emotional and
physically draining role of caring for a loved one. For the person using the service, short stays and
home-based support represent a refreshing change, the chance to meet new people and do things
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they may not have the opportunity to do otherwise. The family must provide a room to the guest
staying on respite. Expenses will be paid for the hours that the guest is with the Host family,
including travel. The duration of the respite varies – it could just be for a night, a weekend or
longer if required. The respite is ALWAYS planned to suit the Host family. Some Host families are
prepared to offer short term breaks in an emergency situation but this would have been
previously agreed. Home based respite consists of the volunteer going in to the client’s home to
provide a sitting service to enable the carers to have a few hours break. All Host families and home
based workers will be assessed by a member of the Share the Care Scheme and will receive all the
information, training and support needed to enable you to care for a disabled adult.
Living Well Living Longer
Hairdresser/Aromatherapist/ Sports & Physical Activity Coach
We are looking for volunteers to join our project to support older people. To promote
participation in a range of activities in a Day Centre and hospital setting as part of the Living Well
Living Longer service, helping to enhance the quality of a person's life by supporting and
promoting his/her wellbeing. The Volunteer Host will be essential in creating a warm, friendly and
relaxed atmosphere to anyone attending ensuring they get the best out of each session.
Befriender for the NHSCT Dementia Service
Are you interested in developing your social life? The NHSCT is looking volunteers to provide
unsupervised befriending visits for adults living with dementia within their own home simply
chatting, playing activities such as games and crafts to going out on short days out. Volunteers will
be required to visit once a week up to three hours. Volunteers will get full support and in-house
training.
Volunteer Driver for Farm Families Health Check Programme
A mobile unit is taken out to farmer’s marts and community events regionally throughout
Northern Ireland where health checks are completed by nurses. Nurses either travel with the
driver or meet the van at the venue.
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The volunteer will require to:
Be covered by Trust insurance
Pass a transport driving test
Have good communication skills and be able to engage with farmers and their families at
the venue, to encourage them have a health check completed
Drive the van to a venue filling up with fuel at a filling station
Drive regionally throughout Northern Ireland
Drive a vehicle 5.2 metres long
Have Category D licence
Be able to cover long days, evenings and Saturdays 1-3 days per week depending on need
Assist the nurse when required with setting up unit
_______________________________________________________________________________
Northern Area
Bereavement Support Volunteers
& Qualified Volunteer Supervisors
Age 18+
Access NI check, references & training required
Cruse Northern Area supports bereaved people in and around Antrim, Ballymena, Larne,
Ballymoney and Magherafelt. Cruse needs volunteers to keep our local services running
smoothly. Volunteering for Cruse can be very rewarding, and help to make a positive difference
to someone's life.
You do not need to have prior qualifications to be a Bereavement Volunteer, but you do need to
care about bereaved people and have time to offer. All volunteers who wish to provide face-to-
face support must complete our Awareness in Bereavement Care (ABC) course. Places on the ABC
course are free to applicants aged 60+ but there is a subsidised course fee for others. The course
can be accredited at Ascentis Level 2. Details about the next available training can be found on:
www.cruse.org.uk/northern-area/events
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Cruse is also seeking externally trained Supervisors who have a recognised qualification in
Counselling Supervision at Level 3 or above, and meet our other criteria as regards knowledge and
experience. Volunteer Supervisors provide a vital role in supporting bereavement volunteers and
assisting our Client Services Committee to develop local services. We welcome men and women of
all ages, races, cultures and backgrounds.
________________________________________________________________________________
The National Deaf Children Society
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The National Deaf Children Society is a charity that supports deaf children and their families to
overcome barriers encountered by deaf children. NDCS’s vision is a world without barriers for
every deaf child.
Volunteer British Sign Language (BSL) Communicator Level 3
As a volunteer with NDCS you will be part of the work we do to achieve our vision. As a Volunteer
BSL Communicator Level 3 you will enable us to run activities for deaf children in Northern Ireland.
You will do this by providing communication support to BSL users, supervising the children,
providing pastoral care and ensuring that children get the most of their event. In return you will
get an opportunity to use your BSL skills and most importantly, as one of our volunteers
expressed, “Volunteering with the NDCS will change your life for the better, you‘re giving
something back to the deaf community and getting much more in return”.
Other volunteer roles may also be available for people who have BSL Levels 1 and 2
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St. Vincent de Paul, Cookstown
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) charity is a Christian voluntary organisation, working
with poor and disadvantaged people. Our goal is to fight poverty in all its forms through the
practical assistance to people in need. We offer direct, personal assistance that is non-
judgemental and based on the need of the individual or family.
Food Bank/Shop Volunteers
Age 18+
Access NI check required
We are looking for volunteers to help run our food bank and charity shop from Monday –
Saturday. Help is needed to stock food and pack boxes for disadvantaged people in the local
community.
Community Garden Volunteer
Age 16+
In connection with St Vincent de Paul and Cookstown Foodbank a community garden is being
created on the grounds of Holy Trinity Church, Cookstown. This communal garden is hoped to
provide a relaxing and therapeutic place for people to visit. It is open to everyone to enjoy and
appreciate. Due to lack of funds an appeal is being made to the community for any garden tools
or equipment, plants/flowers, garden ornaments or decorative items that would contribute to the
development of this space. In due course, it is hoped any vegetables harvested will be donated to
the local Foodbank for distribution to those in need. If you have any appropriate unwanted items
or would like to get involved with this project please let us know. All items will be considered for
use and any support will be highly valued.
_______________________________________________________________________________
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Pomeroy Pre School/After School
Age 16+
Access NI check required
Playschool Assistant
Pomeroy Pre School Playgroup is a member of Early Years, the organisation for children. The
Playgroup uses the High Scope approach in educating their children. This facility provides a 2 ½
hour session to children aged between 3 and 5 years each morning Monday to Friday. The role of
the volunteer is to provide assistance to the playgroup staff in providing a safe and educating
environment for the children.
Afterschool Assistant
The Afterschool facility provides childcare for children of primary school age. The session runs in
the afternoon Monday to Friday during school term and for full days during holiday periods. The
role of the volunteer is to provide assistance to the afterschool staff in providing a safe and
educating environment for the children.
Positive Steps Community Centre
Positive Steps was formed in January 1997 by three pioneering women in order to help meet the
needs of all women from within the Cookstown District Council Area. Since then the Women's
Group has grown from strength to strength. Positive Steps Community Centre offers a variety of
courses to those who live within the local Cookstown District Area and surrounding areas.
Although we are a women's group most of our courses are open to men from the area as well.
We also provide Crèche facilities for children 0-4 years and many of our courses include a
childcare and a travel allowance.
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Street Angel Volunteer
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Our vision is to form a team of volunteers to assist and protect those using the town centre on a
Saturday night from 11pm - 2am. Cookstown Street Angels would provide an on-street facility and
integrated safety net service for individuals in need. The needs of those individuals may be the
result of homelessness in its various forms, intoxication, substance abuse and/or any other issue,
which has caused personal distress or has the potential to cause physical harm to themselves or
others. Teams of trained volunteers will patrol the streets of Cookstown wearing identifiable high
visible vests and ID cards. They will aim to protect and help socialisers to keep safe and will also
aim to reduce alcohol related disorderly behaviour and assaults in the town.
Street Angels will have a safe base for ladies to wait for safe transport home, get a cup of tea or
coffee or just a chat. Flip flops and tinfoil blankets will also be distributed to those who require
them and basic first aid will also be administered from the base. Volunteers will receive first aid,
conflict management and suicide awareness training, to equip them with the skills needed to fulfil
their duties.
We require at least 16 volunteers before this project can operate, so that each Street Angel is only
required to volunteer for a few hours, one Saturday night per month. Please consider this brilliant
opportunity to really make a difference in Cookstown, and make it a safer, more enjoyable place
to be on a Saturday night!
Charity Shop Volunteers
Age 16+
The charity shop appropriately named “New Hope” encompasses the work of the centre. The shop
opens Monday to Friday 10.00am – 2.00pm and we need volunteers to help with sorting of
merchandise, pricing and serving customers.
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Superstars Club
Age 16+
Access NI check required
Support Worker
Join the team at Superstars – we need you! Through Superstars we aim to provide a club
specifically for the benefit of people with learning difficulties. Activities include air hockey, pool,
computer games, music, dance, arts & crafts, board games, specific workshops, special events,
parties & outings. We meet every Tuesday at Cookstown Leisure Centre for ten pin bowling from
7-8pm and every Thursday & Saturday evening from 7-9pm in Oldtown Street, Cookstown.
Volunteers can attend weekly, fortnightly or monthly.
Superstars Cafe Volunteer
Superstars Cafe provides training and work placements for people with learning disabilities. Our
trainees all need enthusiastic support to ensure that they can learn their duties and also to ensure
their safety. Our support workers work alongside our trainees, providing invaluable assistance and
guidance as well as befriending them. Senior staff provides training and advice in a kind and
supportive manner.
Volunteer Finance/Admin Officer
An experienced finance/admin officer is required approximately to assist this growing charity to
manage finance. Duties include:
Income and expenditure recording/payments of invoices/banking
Funding applications, helping to organise fundraising events
General admin duties
This is a great opportunity for someone wishing to gain office experience. Travel expenses will be
reimbursed and a minimum commitment of 6 months is required.
________________________________________________________________________________
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Cookstown Gateway Club
Support Worker
Access NI check required
Gateway provides social & leisure activities for those with learning disabilities
in the local district.
Cookstown Gateway Club is appealing for a volunteer(s) to help assist the service users on & off
the bus which transports them to the fortnightly Wednesday social club in Cookstown. The route
commences from Magherafelt via Moneymore onto Cookstown. As the club runs from 7-9pm the
volunteer needs to be available from 6.15pm to start the journey finishing at approx 9.45pm. The
volunteer needs to be reliable & punctual and there is the flexibility of sharing this role with
another volunteer which would entail to a monthly commitment. Volunteers must be 18+ years.
Volunteers are also required to help with activities at the club such as arts & crafts, games, bingo,
talking to members & helping to serve small snacks etc. Help with collecting on flag days is also
much needed. We meet every fortnight in Cookstown from 7-9pm. Volunteers must be 16+ years.
CLIC Sargent
Children with Cancer
CLIC Sargent is the UK leading children’s Cancer charity. We are localised in Northern Ireland
and provide clinical, practical and emotional support to children and their families.
Each week in Northern Ireland two children are diagnosed with Cancer, CLIC Sargent is there
every step of the way and aims to burden the impact of childhood Cancer.
Information Distribution Volunteer
As Information Distribution Volunteer you will display CLIC Sargent information at venues in your
local community. You distribute the materials in your own time and at your own pace.
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Speaker Volunteer – Across Northern Ireland
Speaker volunteers give talks and presentations on behalf of CLIC Sargent to groups in their local
communities to raise awareness of childhood cancer and the work of CLIC Sargent.
Can Collector ‐ Across Northern Ireland
We are inviting volunteers to be part of our regional Can Collector network in your local area. As
Can Collector you will have opportunity to help support collection can activities. Main elements of
volunteer role include:
Servicing of existing cans following CLIC Sargent guidelines
Identifying new opportunities for the placement of collection cans
Assisting the Fundraising team by distributing posters, flyers/newsletters within the area to
inspire new support‐ keeping accurate records of can numbers, locations, contacts,
income, update database
Fundraising Group Chair
CLIC Sargent is looking for an individual to lead a dynamic fundraising group in a wide range of
exciting events and activities to raise money for children with cancer. The role involves:
Lead and inspire the group in organising fundraising activities in your local area
You can decide as a group what kind of events and activities you wish to organise and how
frequently
Raising awareness of CLIC Sargent in your local areas through your group’s activities
You will be the main point of contact between the group and your local CLIC Sargent
Fundraising Manager
Giving talks/speeches
Fundraising Group Member
We are inviting volunteers to be part of a brand new fundraising group in the local area! You will
have the opportunity to get involved in as many events and fundraising activities as you would like
and the time you give will make a real difference to children and young people with cancer in
Northern Ireland.
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The role involves:
Helping to organise events in your local area to raise money and awareness for CLIC
Sargent. These could be anything from a tea party to a triathlon! Being part of a fundraising
group means you can be as creative as you want.
You will be supported by your local Community Fundraising Manager
Community Support Volunteer
CLIC Sargent is calling for individuals across the six counties in Northern Ireland to help their local
Community Fundraising Manager raise awareness of the brand and help in general community
fundraising tasks. In order to support all of the services we provide we need to fundraise and you
will be a vital part of Community Fundraising.
This is a great opportunity to help children and young people with Cancer. The role involves:
Helping with local fundraising activities, flag days, local events and information evening.
Raising awareness of the charity and its work, at both the local and national level through
marketing material distribution and attending cheques presentations, (all materials for
these tasks will be provided).
Maintaining local fundraising materials such as Collection Cans.
____________________________________________________________________________
The Prince’s Trust
Age 18+
The Prince's Trust supports 13 to 30 year-olds who are unemployed and those struggling at
school and at risk of exclusion. Many of the young people helped by The Trust are in or leaving
care, facing issues such as homelessness or mental health problems, or they have been in
trouble with the law. The Trust’s programmes give vulnerable young people the practical and
financial support needed to stabilise their lives, helping develop self-esteem and skills for work.
Explore Enterprise Facilitator:
Our Enterprise course provides training and advice for young people who want to become self-
employed. Volunteers use their own business experience and real-life examples to deliver the
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course content in an engaging way, explaining key business concepts, leading activities and
facilitating discussions.
Inspirational Speaker:
Setting up your own business can be a very daunting experience. For young people on the
Enterprise course, the opportunity to hear from a volunteer about their personal experiences of
overcoming challenges in a creative and entrepreneurial way can be highly motivating.
Progression Mentoring:
For many of our young people the greatest challenge comes when they have completed a Prince’s
Trust programme and then have to decide on their next steps. Mentors support these young
people for a few hours a week over a 6 month period to address a variety of issues and help them
make plans towards achieving their goals.
Business Mentoring:
The role of a business mentor is to develop good working relationships with these young people
over a period of time to help them develop their businesses whilst also building their confidence
and skills. Mentors support young people for a few hours a week over a 12 month period to
address the challenges, both business and personal, involved with starting a business.
________________________________________________________________________________
Mid Ulster Women’s Aid
Age 18+
Access NI check required
The purpose of Women’s Aid is to provide a quality based holistic service to women and children
affected by all forms of domestic violence; to educate, challenge and co-operate with external
agencies and the wider community with a vision to eradicate domestic violence.
Volunteering opportunities:
Assisting the facilitator in Schools Programmes
Crèche assistant
Assisting with Outings
Fundraising/Flag days
Helping with activities in refuge
Gardening
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The above opportunities are subject to availability throughout the year depending on ongoing
demand for placements from students.
Multiple Sclerosis Society NI – Mid Ulster Branch Volunteer
Age 16+
Access NI check required
An estimated 100,000 people in the UK have MS. The MS Society supports people with MS
through research, care and support. We aim to empower people affected by MS through
information, emotional support and advice. We need volunteers to continue to support
thousands of people across the UK.
Volunteers are required to assist at fundraising events throughout the year such as:
Cheering fundraisers on at sporting events
Helping at check points
Giving out water and other refreshments
Meeting and greeting fundraisers
Developing links with local organisations and participating in fundraising opportunities such as:
Sourcing raffle prizes
Obtaining sponsorship
Arranging collection boxes
Skills and experience and required:
Able to communicate and articulate the MS Society message
Confident requesting financial (and other) support on behalf of MS Society
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Able to work as part of a team
Outgoing, creative and able to generate innovative fundraising ideas
Flexibility and adaptability
Good IT skills
Discovering Kids Playgroup
Age 16+
Access NI check required
Playgroup Assistant
Discovering Kids playgroup is a cross community playgroup providing care and education to
children aged 3-5 years old. We are looking for caring, fun and creative volunteers to help look
out in the playgroup and on outings. The volunteer will work in the team, planning for the
children’s needs, helping to clean up and set up activities. They will use their creative ideas to play
games both indoors and outdoors. Bring your skills and ideas to the group for a rewarding
experience. Two sessions: 9am – 11.45am & 12.30pm – 3.15pm
040 – Opportunities for Older People
Age 16+
Access NI check required
040 – Opportunities for Older People Cookstown Ltd (O4O Cookstown Ltd) (formerly Age
Concern Cookstown Ltd) is an independent charity working with and for older people, providing
essential support services. O4O Cookstown Ltd runs a daily sit in luncheon club providing three
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course, hot meals priced favourably to encourage use by those on all incomes. For those unable
to attend the Club we provide a meal delivery service Monday to Saturday. We also provide a
range of activities geared to suit the participant’s needs.
Charity Shop Assistant
Volunteers are required to help out in O4O’s charity shop in Molesworth Street. The role involves
general shop duties e.g. sorting of merchandise, tagging, serving customers.
Activity Organisers
Volunteers are required to help out with activities in the Monday & Tuesday Clubs. The aim of the
Monday & Tuesday Clubs is to stimulate the health and well being of their male & female
members, through leisure activities i.e. bowling, snooker, quizzes, gardening and outdoor walks.
You can also simply help with serving tea/coffee at these activities.
________________________________________________________________________________
VOYPIC
Mentor
Age 18+
Access NI check required
We are a Northern Ireland charity that works with children and young people in residential care,
foster care, kinship care, leaving and aftercare or any child or young person who has an
experience of care.
By volunteering you could really make a difference to a child or young person in need. We are
currently looking for people from all different backgrounds and across Northern Ireland to
volunteer to provide weekly coaching, advice and support to look after children in post primary
education for up to one year.
The relationship will have a particular, but not exclusive, focus on the benefits of education and
sustaining current educational placements. Mentors assist young people to develop self esteem
and confidence. Roles involved in mentoring:
To meet and build a relationship with a young person in care.
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To actively participate in social and recreational activities with the young person.
To talk to young people about school, their homework and their future.
To encourage the young person to attend group recreational activities with other young
people.
Meet with young person on a weekly basis for 2-3 hours per visit.
Attendance at monthly supervision and support sessions.
Training is provided. For long term mentoring a one year commitment is required.
Monthly allowance for activities with the young person and travel expenses are reimbursed.
________________________________________________________________________________
Victim Support
Age 18+
Access NI check required
Victim Support is a voluntary organisation which provides help and support to people affected
by crime in Northern Ireland. Volunteers are trained to offer support to victims as soon as
possible after the crime. This may be in the victim’s home or at an Outreach Centre.
Community Service Volunteers
Volunteers are needed in all areas to support people affected by crime. We are looking for volunteers who
have a range of skills. Help for crime victims and their family and friends is normally provided by either
office appointments, outreach visits, home visits, or over the phone.
Volunteers are needed to:
listen to people affected by crime
identify any support needs they might have
Provide practical and emotional support.
Volunteers also assist with completing Criminal Injuries Compensation forms and explaining the
compensation process. With the assistance of the Coordinator, volunteers link clients to other services and
agencies. They also provide information on criminal proceedings and the criminal justice system.
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Volunteers in the Witness Service
To give free and confidential support and information to help witnesses and their supporters (such as family
and friends) deal with the experience of attending court to give evidence.
Activities include:
Meeting and greeting witnesses on arrival.
Providing information about the court procedure and layout.
Showing people around a courtroom ahead of a trial so that they are familiar with the environment (we
call this a pre-trial visit).
Listening to and empathising with the concerns and anxieties that witnesses have.
Helping witnesses to prepare for possible verdicts and sentences in their case.
Accompanying witnesses into court if requested.
Explaining any legal jargon or decisions.
Referring witnesses to the local Community Service office or other agencies as appropriate.
Working as part of a team and keeping the local Witness Service Co-Ordinator up-to-date on
developments.
Liaising with other court staff as required.
Providing additional support when special measures are requested.
We need volunteers to commit to be available for a minimum of 9.30am to 4.00pm one day per week
(weekdays only).
You will also be expected to attend ongoing training and meetings.
You should be able to commit at least 1 year to volunteering with us.
Our volunteer roles are both challenging and rewarding. You will be fully trained to carry out the role you
apply for. You need to be a good listener, have good communication skills, be committed to giving up your
time every week and be non-judgemental in your approach to all clients you support. Travel and out of
pocket expenses are available.
________________________________________________________________________________
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Education Authority
Volunteer Youth Worker
All youth centres within the E.A. provide a variety of recreational and educational programmes
with the focus on increasing the personal and social development of the young people who avail
of the services. Our ethos is to provide an ‘educational service focusing on the personal
development of young people, and provide or secure equal opportunities for all young people
relative to their needs’. Volunteers are an essential and integral part of the effectiveness and
daily running of the E.A. and are a valued and important part of the overall youth work process.
Benefits of volunteering:
Meet new people
Personal Growth
Use your skills to benefit others
Feel valued and part of a team
Add value to your C.V
We can provide a reference to future employers.
Increase levels of confidence
Being a role-model
Support and provide leadership for young people
Learn new skills
Qualifications
We at the E.A. wish to make our volunteer opportunities as accessible to as many people from as
many backgrounds and social groups as possible, despite ‘ethnicity, race, religion, sexual
orientation or ability.
Volunteering opportunities include:
Summer Scheme (which is always a fun and enjoyable experience)
Peer Mentoring
Programme Development
Homework Clubs
Community relations
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Outdoor activities and Outreach work
The EA is committed to the support and on-going development of each individual volunteer. As an
organisation we will aim to provide valuable training opportunities throughout your time as a
volunteer.
Training available:
Introduction to Volunteering
Programme Development
Trainee leaders
Outreach Training
Introduction to Youth Work
Child Protection
We are also seeking volunteers to help out at our Youth Included Project.
Information about the Youth Included Project
The programme is designed specifically for youth people aged 11 to 19 years who are at secondary
school and have a learning difficulty. The programme caters for a fairly wide diversity of needs and
we have young people with Down syndrome, Asperger’s, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia and
Noonan Syndrome. The programme helps young people develop social skills, have fun with other
young people from similar backgrounds, develop friendships, learn new skills and be a voice for
young people with a learning difficulty.
Each Year a project is chosen and the group work towards producing something that will help other
people understand about learning difficulties.
_____________________________________________________________________________
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Verbal Arts Centre
Reading Rooms Volunteer
Age 18+
Access NI check required
First established in 1992 Verbal Arts Centre’s mission is the promotion of the written and spoken
word, the celebration of commonality and diversity and the development of knowledge,
understanding and excellence in the creation, performance and critical practice together with
research, publication and the provision of information. Our work is divided into 5 programme
areas:
Digital Storytelling, Publishing, Reader Development, Festival & Events, Oral History & Archive.
The main aim of the Reading Rooms programme is to invite people of all ages, backgrounds and
abilities to enjoy and engage with reading. This programme is based around the needs of specific
client groups. Currently we are working with Older People including those with Dementia, Young
People in Care and at Risk, in Prisons and also under a Health and Well Being Umbrella: Disability,
Mental Health and long term conditions such as surviving a Stroke. Some Reading Rooms will run
on a week-on-week basis for a period of one year. Others may be for a short fixed time basis e.g.
5/6 Weeks each quarter over the year. Times will be agreed with client groups and guided by the
volunteer availability.
The Reading Rooms are delivered in a variety of locations across the Mid Ulster Area e.g.
Cookstown, Bellaghy, Magherafelt, Maghera, and Dungannon. Where possible we will try to
ensure a location that is convenient to your place of work or home (as specified in your application
form).
THERE ARE 2 OPTIONS:
Introduce yourself and assist at a Reading Rooms event delivered by a Verbal Arts Centre
staff member
Present a section of the programme independently during a session. Training and support:
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All Reading Room volunteers will receive a full training package to enable them to confidently
deliver within the project. All costs for this training will be covered by the Verbal Arts Centre. The
Verbal Arts Centre will match you with a Reading Room best suited to your confidence and skills.
We will continue to support you within the Reading Rooms e.g. mentoring and guidance. A Verbal
Arts Centre representative will work closely with you to ensure you are happy with all elements of
the programme. The Verbal Arts Centre will provide you with the materials required for your
Reading Room sessions along with all supporting paper work. On a monthly basis we will have a
Volunteer Mentoring session where all Reading Room volunteers can attend and discuss how they
are finding the programme, make suggestions and provided with any relevant updates.
________________________________________________________________________________
RNLI
Education Presenter
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. We provide on call, a 24-hour lifeboat search and
rescue service around the UK and Ireland, and a seasonal lifeguard service.
With our lifeboats, lifeguards, safety advice and flood rescue, we are committed to saving lives.
RNLI is appealing for Education Presenter Volunteers. The role involves visits to schools and youth
groups of all ages to promote the Sea Safety and Beach Awareness Safety Message. No experience
is required but an interest in RNLI and the work it does would be desirable. Initial training is given
and on-going support is available. Travel expenses are reimbursed and own transport is required.
The charity RNLI is completely reliant on voluntary contributions.
________________________________________________________________________________
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Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service
Age 18+
Access NI check required
NIFRS is proud to protect our community and our community engagement and prevention work
is a large part of what we do as a fire and rescue service. We will be looking for Volunteers from
all walks of life and each volunteer will be fully inducted, trained and provided with a NIFRS
uniform.
Awareness Raising Volunteer
Within this volunteering role, you will be:
• acting as a community engagement ‘champion’, spreading the word on fire safety amongst
members of the public and target groups (e.g., older people, specific neighbourhoods);
• attending events and awareness sessions to promote safety and wellbeing; and
• building links between community organisations and NIFRS to promote the services which NIFRS
offers.
Information Support Volunteer
This role will support NIFRS in providing fire safety messages to local communities with the aim of
reducing the number of accidental fire deaths and injuries in the home and reducing the number
of incidents attended by NIFRS.
______________________________________________________________________________
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Parkinson’s UK
Volunteer Educator
Age 18+
One of the charity's key goals is to improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's. Making
education and training about Parkinson's available to as many health and social care
professionals as possible is one way in which we are working towards this goal.
Experience has shown us that the role of the local Volunteer Educator is valued highly by health
and social care providers in helping their staff to understand key information about the impact of
living with Parkinson’s and thereby improve their practice. We will provide training to enable you
to plan and deliver a short one hour presentation on Parkinson's using prepared flip charts and
notes to groups of staff working in care homes and home care agencies in your local area by:
Contacting care providers by letter or email to offer your session, responding to requests for
sessions received via the Parkinson's UK web site or that have come via the local area/country
team.
Committing to delivery of a number of sessions per month/year to be agreed locally
Participating in regular support meetings (face to face or by telephone) with your local volunteer
coordinator
Completing and forwarding monthly reports on your sessions to the Education Programmes
Coordinator
Community Mapping Volunteer
(Homebased role)
18+
Our vision is that by 2020 people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers will have fair and
consistent access to the services and support that are fundamental to being and staying in control
with Parkinson’s. As a Community Mapping Volunteer, you will enable our local development
teams to make informed decisions about opportunities and priorities in their area.
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As part of this team you will:
research existing services in your local area that are relevant to people with Parkinson's and
their careers, such as support groups, exercise classes, therapeutic activities, self-
management sessions, advice and information services, befriending schemes and financial
assistance opportunities
record details of these identified local services
This role will give you the opportunity to:
find out more about services and support available to people in your area
gain useful organisational, communication and research skills
provide valuable research and feedback to help shape the local work of Parkinson's UK,
allowing more people to stay in control of Parkinson's
learn about the work of a major health charity, and be an important part of the wider
Parkinson's UK network
This is a home based opportunity. For this role you will need:
access to a computer and good IT and record keeping skills
a willingness to travel within a local area
the ability to provide feedback and work enthusiastically within a team
an interest in understanding and helping to develop local services for Parkinson's UK
an understanding of Parkinson's UK's vision and mission, as well as the needs of people
affected by Parkinson's
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Volunteer Mentor
18+
Extern is a charity that provides services to support a range of vulnerable and marginalised people
including children, young people, adults and families who have issues which are challenging and
complex. Extern recognises volunteers as a core part of our team, with a distinctive but
complimentary role alongside our paid staff.
Extern provides a range of volunteer opportunities to people who want to give their time to
support the groups the charity works with. The volunteer mentor will be supporting young people
from 8-21 years old who are from the looked-after and care population.
The volunteer mentor will meet up with a young person for 1hour/1 ½ hours per week. A
volunteer mentor can help a young person by providing emotional support, advice & guidance and
hold-holding to assist the young people to address their barriers to progression. A volunteer
mentor will improve a young person’s quality of life by promoting their wellbeing, independence,
healthy life choices and training and employability.
Rosie’s Trust
Rosie’s Trust is a unique Northern Ireland charity, officially registered with the Northern Ireland
Charity Commission in April 2015.
Our mission is to maintain and support the special relationship and bond between owners and
their companion pets. We will do this when this relationship is threatened by the impact of the
owner’s terminal illness, advancing age or acute cancer treatment. Our principle aim is to enable
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the owner and their pet to stay together. Our services are offered at no cost to our clients. We are
proud to enable the continuing relationship between people and their pets.
Volunteers are vital to the work of Rosie’s Trust – we need volunteers from all walks of life who
are willing to help fellow animal lovers / owners who, because of their illness or disability, are
unable to independently care for their beloved companion.
We are looking for volunteers to carry out the following roles:
Dog Walking
Cat Feeding / litter changing
Short Term animal fostering
Long Term adoption
Vet Visits/Transport
Administration
Data Gathering/Research
Fundraising
Alpha & Omega Recycling
Aplha & Omega Recycling is a community interest company which aims to recycle used old bikes
based in cookstown. This can involve fixing brakes, gears, wheels to doing a major overhaul to
customize the bikes. The goal is to restore a bike which was going to the scrape yard to give it a
new life for years to come. The proceeds go into community projects. One project we are currently
working to set up a community cycling club using the recycle bikes.
Volunteers make a great contribution to the recycling process in restoring old bikes. With an
increase in the numbers of bikes we need extra help. The volunteers will learn new skills working
as a team which produces quality which they can use in other places.
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Action on Elder Abuse
Northern Ireland
18+
Action on Elder Abuse (AEA) Northern Ireland is a specialist charity working to protect older
people from all forms of abuse and neglect. We support those experiencing (or at risk of) abuse,
as well as raising awareness and advocating for effective prevention. We're part of the
organisation Action on Elder Abuse, who work across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern
Ireland. We were the first charity to address elder abuse and remain the only charity in the United
Kingdom working exclusively on the issue today. We have the expertise to support victims, their
families, and those who care for them.
We are recruiting home based volunteers to answer Northern Ireland Helpline calls. The helpline
provides free, confidential, information, advice and support to victims of elder abuse, as well as
others who are in concerned about or have witnessed abuse, neglect or financial exploitation. We
would like the volunteer to take calls for a minimum of half a day, (four hours per week/fortnight)
a (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm).
The role will include:
Working with elderly people
Excellent communication skills
Provide empathy, advice, support or someone who can listen
Willing to undertake training to provide the relevant knowledge and skills to handle
helpline calls.
The volunteer will have the opportunity to do this in their own home
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ASCERT
Northern Ireland
18+
Ascert is a charity providing services across Northern Ireland that address the impact of alcohol
and drugs related issues that affect people's lives. We are committed to ensuring individuals,
families and communities are supported in the most effective way to deal with the challenges they
face.
The volunteer will provide support to the charity, raising awareness of what we do and helping us
to raise vital funds to enable us to deliver our services. Such as the ability to address drug and
alcohol issues, reduce harm and support positive change in local communities across Northern
Ireland.
Last year ASCERT supported 10,269 people and recognise the valuable contribution its
volunteers
Concern Debates
Northern Ireland
Volunteer Adjudicators
Concern Debates 2018-19 gives GCSE and A level pupils the skills to formulate an argument,
deliver a speech, stand up for their point of view and challenge their opponents options.
Concern are looking for volunteers to join our panel of adjudicators to hear the insightful views of
today’s youth on global issue.
All we need are good listeners who can see arguments from both points of view. We will be
running a brief training session which is 45 minutes and helps the volunteers to understand the
marking scheme for each debates. Each debates runs for just over an hour and takes place in the
schools themselves in the evening after work. The debates will take place
between October 2018 and May 2019. You can support as many or as few
debates as you wish, but we would ask all adjudicators to consider supporting
two debates during the programme.
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Minimum commitment – 1 Year
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