Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook 2010-2011

www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering �

The University of Nottingham Students’ Union

Projects Handbook2010 - 2011

Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook

What is the Student Volunteer Centre?It’s THE place to come if you want to get involved in the SU, societies, charities and much more. We’re here to help you make the most out of your time at Uni – either on campus or in the city. We won’t stop until we’ve helped you get involved with something you love doing – from coaching sports to working with refugees to running a fair trade cafe. We all love sitting on the sofa, having a cup of tea and watching Hollyoaks but if you want to do something else too, then give us a shout!

Why Volunteer?Why the heck not! EasyIt couldn’t be easier to get involved. We’ll help you every step of the way, supporting you to make sure you get the most out of volunteering.

ExperienceVolunteering will help you develop new skills and enjoy experiences you can’t find anywhere else at Uni. As well as helping others you’ll be helping yourself to become even more attractive to future employers.

FlexibleYou can commit as much or as little of your time as you want. From a one-off Taster event to setting up your own project – it’s up to you how involved you get.

Fun, Fun, Fun!None of this would matter if volunteering wasn’t actually fun. It’s a great way to make new friends AND it’s all about the feel-good factor.

So sign up to our mailing list today…We’ll keep you up-to-date with all the latest opportunities and what’s going on in your Students’ Union, your community, and beyond.

� www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering

Enjoyed every

minute of it!

“ “


Fancy volunteering but not sure you can do it regularly?

Enjoy working in a team rather than on your own?

Want to have a go at something a bit different?

Sounds like you need a TASTER!

One-Off Volunteering


Tasters are your chance to get stuck into some one-off volunteering. If you’ve not volunteered before why not ‘Suck It & See’? Or, if you’ve had a bite of volunteering and liked it, pop back for another nibble.

In the past we’ve spent an afternoon planting an orchard, organised Christmas Parties for the elderly, and built a pig paddock on a farm!

Meanwhile, our intrepid volunteers had a laugh, saw a different side of Nottingham and got that warm, fuzzy feeling that only volunteering can give.

We’re always looking for new one-off stuff, so if you hear of anyone needing some work doing let us know. Maybe you’ve been volunteering at a project and noticed they need help with a big event. Wherever we can help make a difference we want to get involved.

Oh, and if you fancy coordinating a Taster we’re always on the look-out for people to organise and lead one-off events too!



BRIDGET LITCHFIELDStudent Volunteer Centre Manager

I oversee all of SVC’s work, and I think I’m pretty lucky really. After all, I must have one of the best jobs in the Students’ Union!

Everyone who works within the Centre is committed to making sure that all of you find an exciting volunteering opportunity to meet your individual needs so that you have a great time doing something that you’re passionate about.

When I am not in the Centre, I am an amateur Ghostbuster, visiting spooky places and seeking out spirits from the other side - “Who ya gonna call…?”

?Development Worker Please note: As we went to print our lovely new staff member hadn’t arrived yet so you’ll have to wait and see what they’re like. Here’s what they do though…

This role is all about organising quality volunteering events – especially one-off stuff. So if you fancy a bite size chunk of fun give them a shout!

In the past this has included spending the afternoon building bird boxes, Guinness World Record attempts, and making snake draught excluders from vintage fabric to keep students’ bedrooms warm in winter!

Our mystery man/woman will also look after some of our ongoing projects. This includes a crop of eco and conservation projects as well as organising volunteers for Oxfam and recruiting students for Lenton’s award-winning Crocus Cafe.

Introducing…Now you know what we do, it’s time to meet the team…

I have always found the staff

to be very helpful and friendly and

“ “



STEPHEN BARTONDevelopment Worker

My job involves finding as many great opportunities to volunteer all over Nottingham (and the rest of country and the world!) as possible. There are over 100 volunteering projects to choose from so I’m busy all year round researching projects and asking you guys what you thought of your volunteering.

I also do a lot of work with the SU’s Societies and Sports Clubs. Last year I helped Dodgeball Soc, Taekwondo Soc and Role Playing Soc (to name but a few) get volunteering in the community. I want to do even more this year so if you’re a member of a club and want to make the most of your skills and abilities then let me know.

I run the Tag Rugby project each year too. This brings together local schools and students for a fun-filled face-off pitting our volunteer coaches against Trent’s.

Fun fact about me? I once owned a pet lobster! And I love getting behind the wheel of everything from a go-kart to a Lamborghini.

CATIE SMITHDevelopment Worker

Want to start your own volunteering project? From nostalgic film nights for your older neighbours to online English classes for people in developing countries – I can help turn your idea in to a reality!

I also get volunteers involved with all kinds of projects from hanging out and helping refugees to supporting staff in hospitals.

In my spare time I like to travel, go to Salsa classes and also do a spot of volunteering myself. The most rewarding experience has been lending a hand at homeless projects with mates from church. This has been humbling and sometimes almost heart-breaking but also amazing and fun too.



SVC Volunteer TeamVolunteer / Assistant Volunteer Coordinator

These guys help the SVC staff to coordinate a team of student volunteers to help us promote volunteering. They look after the Centre’s volunteers and make sure everyone’s happy and has plenty to do.

SVC Volunteer TeamChances are you’ll have already seen one of our volunteers at Freshers Fair or at one of our promotional events. These guys help us spread the word about the joys of getting involved with the various opportunities and organisations on offer. From shouting about sports to harping on about helping the homeless, they’re passionate about volunteering. They love to give advice and are here to help you find just the right project for you!

* We will be recruiting later in the year for the above roles so please ask us (or visit our website) if you’d like more information.

Accommodation & Community Officer – TEDDY SMITH

“I’m here to represent students wherever they live, on campus and around, and to be a point of contact for students wanting to get out there and make a difference in their local community.

The Centre supports my role by developing student input in our community and our Union. Through its passion for volunteering and dedication to student support, the Centre is a great way to get out there, get active, and make a real difference!

Any questions? Feel free to contact [email protected].”

If you are interested in standing for the Accommodation & Community Officer role please see www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/elections.

Introducing…Also, if you pop into the Student Volunteer Centre you’re likely to find these lovely people …

Teddy Smith



You don’t have to go out into the community to be a volunteer. We’re always looking for enthusiastic people to help out within the Students’ Union (SU) too.

There’s more to do than we can ever list here so please visit the Students’ Union website or pop into the Student Volunteer Centre for more information. Here’s a little overview though…

RepresentationThere are tons of opportunities to get involved with the SU’s representative and decision making groups. You can have a say in the Students’ Union’s policy as a member of the Union Council, iron out any problems in your school as an Academic Rep or make sure every student’s voice is heard with one of the Representational Networks like LGBT or the Students with Disabilities Association.

If you’re in halls, you can run for a position on your JCR Committee in the elections in October. Don’t forget the Exec elections in March. Everyone’s free to run for a position and if elected you’ll spend a year working either full or part time to improve the student experience for everyone. Exec positions are paid, so it’s not strictly volunteering, but it’s such a great opportunity we thought it was worth mentioning anyway!

Clubs, Societies and Student Run ServicesThe Students’ Union has over 250 clubs and societies, all of which have their own committees. In the unlikely event that you can’t find a society that matches your interests, we can help you to set up one of your own. Just get in touch and we’ll tell you how we can help.

The Student Run Services, like the radio, NUTS TV station, the New Theatre and Nightline are always looking for new people to get involved too.

CampaigningThe Students’ Union runs a number of campaigns throughout the year to raise awareness about the issues that matter. If you’d like to help out with an existing campaign, or even start one of your own, we can point you in the right direction.

Volunteering in the Students’ Union



Case Studies· After being frustrated about not being able to help a friend with an eating disorder, Nicola set up B-eat, a self help group for Nottingham Uni students with eating disorders.

· Chris volunteered in Uganda and was shocked by the level of suffering. So when he came to study at the University of Nottingham he set up a Student led Project (SHARE Uganda) to raise awareness and funds to help kids go to school.

· Judith, an environmental student, decided to help Trent Vale Primary School become green (through the Eco-Schools scheme). She shared her knowledge and got some great practical experience to add to her CV in the process.

The Student Volunteer Centre can give you grants, support and training to help you start your own Student Led Project. Contact Catie Smith on 0115 8468751 or [email protected] to find out more.

Student-Led ProjectsGot an idea that could help people? From DJ workshops in local youth clubs to baking cakes and buddy schemes, come and have a chat to us about it and we’ll help you get started!

Volunteering is a great way to meet

people, relax and contribute

to the community. Loads of fun

and satisfaction guaranteed.

“ “



Project IndexUse the symbols below to select the project that’s right for you.

Art

Befriending/Mentoring

Children

Community

Disabled

Elderly

Enterprise

Environmental

Health

Housing

International

Literacy &Language

Refugee/Ethnicity

School

Sport

Student-Led

Support &Advice

Youth Groups& Clubs

Acorn Resource Centre

Activ8 Uth @ The Lenton Centre

Alzheimer’s Society - Side by Side Befriending Scheme

Aspire

ATE Superweeks

Barncroft Buddies

B-eat

Beeston Toy Library

Bramcote Park Business & Enterprise School

British Red Cross - Youth & Schools

BTCV

Carers Federation - Mentoring Project

CHICKS

Childline/NSPCC

The Children’s Society - Refugee Mentoring

Chilwell Secondary School

Community Befriending

Crocus Café

Crocus Fields

Culture Vulture

Division of Nursing & Q-Active

DOH - Doing our Homework

�0 www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering


Art

Befriending/Mentoring

Children

Community

Disabled

Elderly

Enterprise

Environmental

Health

Housing

International

Literacy &Language

Refugee/Ethnicity

School

Sport

Student-Led

Support &Advice

Youth Groups& Clubs

EMAGine

Emmanuel House

English Conversation Group

Enterprise Days (Business Futures)

E-volve (Business Futures)

Golden Futures

Groundwork Greater Nottingham

Guides

Headway House

Hospital to Home (British Red Cross)

Hostels Liaison Group (HLG)

Inspire

InterVol

Knit-a-Soc

Lab in the Lorry (Business Futures)

The Lenton Centre (TLC)

Literacy Volunteers

Love Your Uni

Marrow

National Autistic Society Befriending Scheme

National Self-Harm Network (NSHN)

New Art Exchange (NAE)

Nottingham and Notts Refugee Forum (NNRF)

Nottingham Forest Community Coaching

Nottingham Mencap

Nottinghamshire County Council – Sports Development

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust

Nottinghamshire Hospice

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Nottingham University Samworth Academy (NUSA)

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust (NWT)

Nottinghamshire YMCA

Notts Housing Advice (previously Shelter)

NRSB - Sports and QMC Link Project (Eye Clinic)

NUH Youth Service

www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering ��


NYAS Independent Visitors (Befrienders for children in care)

Oakfield School

Over The Wall

Oxfam GB

Pearson Centre for Young People

Playing for Success

Reading Aunties & Uncles

READ International

Refugee Support (British Red Cross)

Riding for the Disabled

Rosehill School

RSPB

Samaritans

Save The Children

School Governors One-Stop Shop (SGOSS)

Scouts

SHARE Uganda

SIFE Nottingham

St. Ann’s Allotments (STAA)

Stonebridge City Farm

Students for Safe Motherhood

Student Sport Coaching Initiative (SSCI)

Surface Gallery

Tag Rugby Coaching

Tools For Self Reliance (TFSR)

Urban Nature Victim Support in Nottinghamshire Vitalise Voluntary Action Broxtowe Working in Tandem (WiT)WRVS Coffee Shop Young Ambassadors for Finance

Young Enterprise – Primary Programme

Young Potential (YP)

ZambiAIDS

Projects Handbook2010 - 2011

VOLUNTEER!



Acorn Resource CentreThis Centre offers a range of activities for adults (18+ years) with a physical disability. Volunteers are needed to help with music/craft workshops, discussion groups, quizzes and health & beauty sessions. You can also go out on day trips/outings including bowling, gardening, cinema or theatre visits, or help out on their coffee bar. If you have any ideas for new activities, Acorn are always happy to hear them too!

Commitment: Various (approx 2 -3 hrs per visit)Location: Hyson Green

Activ8 Uth @ The Lenton CentreActiv8 Uth provides play, sport, educational and creative activities for ages 8 - 18. The project addresses and tackles the problems faced by young people, particularly those connected with social exclusion and disadvantage. You can help coach sports; teach digital photography/video making; lead a music, dance, drama or healthy eating group. You name it, they do it – and if they don’t, they can always start!

Commitment: Various (approx. 1-4 hrs per week) Location: Lenton

Alzheimer’s Society - Side by Side Befriending SchemeThis scheme provides volunteer befrienders for people in the early stages of dementia who live at home. They aim to maintain links with the community, reduce isolation, and provide stimulation through companionship and support. Your role can vary depending on each person’s needs. It may involve going to the pub, walking, visiting places, or simply chatting over a cup of tea.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Various

Aspire Aspire aims to improve access to higher education for bright young pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through a range of initiatives and activities working with primary/secondary pupils, you can help raise their expectations and aspirations, as well as their achievements. You can help support Breakfast/After-School clubs, and also in the classroom, with Sports, Arts, Music and IT projects. Volunteers are also welcome to lead projects in any area of their own interest/expertise.

Commitment: Varies (1-2 hrs per week) Location: Various (Schools in Bilborough, Strelley and Broxtowe)

The Projects...

�� www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/volunteering


ATE SuperweeksATE is a not-for-profit Trust that organises educational breaks (during the summer hols) for children aged 8-16. As a volunteer you can lead a group at an ATE Superweek. The training for a Superweek takes place over Easter. At this you’ll learn loads of games, songs and crafts which you can then use at any time to keep your troop entertained and happy. You’ll gain so much confidence from this training and leading a Superweek. You’ll also meet lots of like-minded people and work together as a team to make it a truly memorable week for everyone.

Commitment: 1 training week + 1 ‘Superweek’ sessionLocation: Training in Worcester + ‘Superweeks’ in various locations around the UK

Barncroft BuddiesBased initially at Barncroft Day Service in Beeston, you’ll get to know an adult with a learning disability via supporting learning, leisure or personal development activities. You will then move on to supporting community-based activities. This could be going for a coffee and a chat, a cinema trip, or helping someone undertake a college course/volunteering. You could have a huge impact on someone’s inclusion in the community. In return, you’ll develop a range of skills and experience. This is a really useful role if you are interested in a career in adult social care. Commitment: Varies (approx. 2 -3 hrs per week)Location: Beeston/Broxtowe Borough/City

B-eatThis student-run self-help group offers support to anyone affected by eating disorders - from those with the illness to their close friends. Individuals can meet others in similar situations to themselves, share their experiences or just listen to the group discussions. The project also aims to raise awareness of eating disorders and the support available. Volunteers are extremely welcome and will work to publicise the self-help group by organising and coordinating awareness events, and raising funds.

Commitment: Various (at least 1 - 2 hrs per week)Location: Mainly Uni Park, but students from any campus are very welcome



British Red Cross - Youth & SchoolsDo you want to volunteer for an International Humanitarian Organisation? Do you enjoy working with children and young people? Then the Red Cross is the place for you. Volunteers are needed to go into local schools and help teach pupils First Aid and assist with the delivery of workshops on humanitarian issues.

Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: Various Schools

BTCVThis is the biggest practical conservation charity in Britain. If you like to get outdoors and get your hands dirty then this is the project for you! Each week a minibus takes volunteers from the city centre for a day of getting back to nature. You could be cutting down brambles, trimming trees, building footpaths, or creating butterfly habitats. Whatever is needed at each site - whether it’s a nature reserve or woodlands you’re helping to maintain. You’ll be making a massive difference to improve local access/enjoyment of the countryside and hidden urban green spaces. BTCV also offer skills development and leadership training. Commitment: Flexible (1 full day volunteering whenever you’re free)Location: Various – Notts (transport provided)

Beeston Toy LibraryPlay time for young children with parents, carers and other children teaches things like social skills, sharing, forming friendships and relationships. This Toy Library holds play sessions where under-5s come (with their parent or carer) to play and/or choose a toy to loan for a week or two at a nominal cost. Volunteers are needed to help run the play sessions and with the loaning of toys. Commitment: 2 hrs per monthLocation: Beeston

Bramcote Park Business & Enterprise SchoolWant to be a teaching assistant? Bramcote School needs volunteers to help 11-16 year old students with a variety of subjects including Maths, Physics, French, Spanish, PE, Design & Technology. (Knowledge of these subjects would be advantageous). You will be working in a 1-to-1 / small group setting to help pupils with their work. Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Bramcote



Carers Federation - Mentoring ProjectAre you positive, reliable, creative and interested in supporting people? The Mentoring Project is looking for volunteer mentors to work with young adults who care for a family member or partner. You will help them identify their interests and goals, and support them to take steps to try new things. This could be anything from sports / fitness to helping them enrol at college – whatever gives them confidence to do something new.

Commitment: 1 - 2 hrs per week (for 1 year) Location: Nottingham

CHICKSCHICKS offer holidays for underprivileged and abused children or child carers who look after disabled/sick parents. These children don’t often have the chance to act as children and enjoy their youth. A holiday allows them to laugh, play and express themselves in a caring, friendly and stress-free environment. You will help to provide as much attention as possible, and join in all the games/activities.

Commitment: A 5 day session (at various times through the year)Location: Devon or Cornwall

Childline/NSPCC ChildLine is the UK’s free 24 hour helpline for children/young people in danger or distress. Volunteers take calls about a wide range of problems such as abuse (physical, mental and sexual), bullying, serious family problems, worries about friends’ welfare, and teenage pregnancy. Volunteers are also needed to receive/direct calls on the switchboard to help achieve Childline’s aim of being able to answer every call from every child that needs help.

Commitment: 1-4 hrs per weekLocation: City Centre

The Children’s Society - Refugee MentoringDo you remember what it was like when you first came to Nottingham? Imagine if you’d arrived after experiencing problems in your own country. You could have been separated from your own family and English might not be your first language. Wouldn’t you like a friendly face to explain how things work over here? This project needs volunteers to mentor young people aged 11-25 who are asylum seekers / refugees. You could go out for a coffee, have a trip to the cinema or show your mentee around the city centre.

Commitment: 2-3 hrs a week (for at least 6 months) Location: Nottingham



Chilwell Secondary SchoolWant to help pupils with activities including arts, cookery and drama? This school needs volunteers for the Autumn term to support its ‘Collapsed Curriculum’ initiative. If you are creative, have a passion for inspiring young people and want to help them learn this is the ideal role for you. As a volunteer you can lead or support the workshops and activities, whilst also gaining unique work experience – especially if interested in pursuing a career in teaching.

Commitment: Flexible (approx 3 hrs per week) Location: Chilwell (close to Beeston/City Centre)

Community BefriendingAre you caring, patient and a good listener? This is your chance to get a buzz from befriending and gain valuable experience at the same time. New volunteers are always needed to befriend adults with mental ill health / learning disabilities. You can provide support to someone through home visits, trips to cafés, pubs, the theatre or cinema.

Commitment: 2 hrs per week (for a minimum of 6 months) Location: All over Nottingham

Crocus Café This not-for-profit, fair trade café aims to bring members of the community together (students, non-students and different ethnic groups) in a relaxed environment. You can help in the kitchen and serve in the café but, more importantly, interact with the customers, develop their awareness of their community and form friendships. Volunteers can also showcase their art, photography or musical talents in the café and help organise events.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Lenton (Church Square – behind Savoy Cinema)

Crocus FieldsThis is a short stay care unit for children/young people (ages 8 – 18) with a wide range of learning and physical disabilities. The centre has 2 residential units alongside safe play areas, a craft room, sensory room and lounges. You can help organise and run activities such as swimming, bowling, football and trips to the cinema.

Commitment: Variable (but must commit for full academic year)Location: The Meadows – close to City Centre* please note: no final year students

The two placements I went on were

fantastic.

““



DOH - Doing our Homework DOH provides improved homework facilities and assistance for all children and young people (8-18) in Radford/Lenton and Hyson Green. You can help with IT work and internet research. Or you can utilise multi-media encyclopaedia, find information in the library’s many books, or generally help with problematic homework/revision. You may also be asked to listen to children read and help with handwriting skills. Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Radford/Lenton or Hyson Green Libraries

EMAGineMany Black/Mixed Heritage pupils in secondary schools underachieve at GCSE when compared to other groups (despite good results at primary level). They’re also over-represented in exclusion statistics. In an attempt to redress such inequalities, volunteers are needed to act as positive academic role models in the core subjects (English, Maths, Science, ICT). In particular, but not exclusively, male Black/Mixed Heritage students are needed to address the specific needs of Black/Mixed Heritage boys.

Commitment: 2 hrs per week Location: City secondary schools

Culture VultureDo you love meeting people from other cultures? The Culture Vulture Buddy Programme is an exciting opportunity to allow current Nottingham Uni students the chance to help new international students ‘settle in’ to their new life in Nottingham. You’ll mostly keep in contact by email but you can meet up if you like. You’ll be answering questions about student life in the UK, pointing them in the right direction to get help and perhaps even introducing them to some of the activities that you enjoy doing! Commitment: 30 mins per week (for 1 term) Location: Nottingham

Division of Nursing & Q-ActiveVolunteers are needed for Q-Active’s health promotion campaign at the QMC hospital. Events are organised to encourage staff / students to improve their health and wellbeing. You can run the events, organise your own, or assist with Q-Active research studies. Postgraduates with existing research skills can conduct projects in the area of health and wellbeing for dissertations and research projects. Past volunteers have written articles and been published in books / academic journals such as Clinical Rehabilitation, Health Promotion & Education, and International Journal of Workplace Health.

Commitment: 3 hrs per week Location: QMC



Emmanuel HouseThis is your chance to volunteer with homeless people. This day centre provides a place where homeless and vulnerable people can go to find warmth, acceptance, encouragement, care and friendship. As a volunteer you can help out in the coffee bar, with the arts & crafts sessions, football club, at their allotment or supporting people to use the computers. If you have a hobby, skill or are part of a club / society then you could even run your own sessions.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Hockley (City Centre)

English Conversation GroupThe aim of these group lessons is to help people learning English in Nottingham gain confidence in communicating and expand their knowledge. Users come from many different countries, and sessions are conducted in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. Volunteers are needed to help prepare and lead the sessions.

Commitment: 4-8 hrs per month Location: City Centre

Enterprise Days (Business Futures)If you fancy doing a one-off activity, you could help facilitate an Enterprise Day in a local secondary school. Through workshops that aim to unlock their key skills pupils learn how to solve problems and achieve goals. You’ll help pupils practice and develop their problem solving, teamwork, communication and presentation skills. All of which enhances their employability. It’s always good fun and a great way for you to improve your own skills too!

Commitment: Training + 1 day eventLocation: Local secondary schools

E-volve (Business Futures)How much better would school have been if you’d had regular contact with a mentor? Somebody who wasn’t your teacher/parent, someone to be encouraged by, and who you could sound off to. How much more motivated would you have been? You can help potential University students just by sending a few emails a week! How good will the word ‘mentor’ look on your CV? By sitting at your computer for half an hour or so a week you could really make a difference to someone’s life!

Commitment: 1 hr per week Location: Home/Uni./Anywhere with internet access



Golden FuturesGolden Futures offer support, advice and loans to young Cambodians leaving NGO care. They give people the chance to establish themselves in life - through a University education, vocational training, or by helping them to start a business. Volunteers are needed to help raise money and awareness - both on campus and around Nottingham. You could even join the project in Cambodia to see the fruits of your labour, and visit the orphanage Golden Futures works with.

Commitment: Varies (approx 2-3 hrs per week)Location: On campus / City Centre

Groundwork Greater NottinghamWant to work for an environmental regeneration charity?Groundwork aims to create communities that people are proud to live and work in. There are various chances for volunteers to make a difference. You can help people get back into employment (and grow organic food) through the Community Garden Project. Or lend a hand with Walk on the Wildside, a new project to help people discover nature and have fun outdoors.

Commitment: FlexibleLocation: Various across Greater Nottingham

GuidesThere are opportunities to work with Rainbows, Brownies, Rangers and Guides in the local area. Previous experience isn’t necessary, but warranted or part warranted Guiders are welcomed. All you really need to have is a responsible attitude towards personal safety and looking after children and young people. And lots of energy! Volunteers help with every aspect of the running of weekly meetings. This includes activities such as crafts, games, life skills and various outdoor activities.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Beeston, Chilwell, Bramcote

Headway HouseThis project offers social/leisure activities to people with a brain injury, their families and carers. It also provides an environment to share experiences and concerns with others. You can help with this; supporting people to adapt to the change in their lifestyle and helping them feel less isolated in society. There are numerous ways to get involved from arts & crafts to horticulture to IT sessions.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Sherwood (close to City Centre)



Hospital to Home (British Red Cross)Want to help people get back on their feet after being in hospital? As a volunteer you would visit discharged patients for a few hours each week to help with shopping, offering a friendly ear and generally making people feel less vulnerable.

Commitment: Minimum 1 - 2 hrs per weekLocation: Varies

Hostels Liaison Group (HLG)Do you want to help homeless people gain new skills, grow in confidence and get their voice heard? HLG is looking for volunteers to support homeless people, helping them contribute to a newsletter, create their own websites, write blogs and use social networking sites. You’ll be explaining how to use the PCs and assisting individuals with their writing. So, if you’re a people person, enjoy writing and can explain things clearly then HLG want to hear from you!

Commitment: 2 – 5 hrs per weekLocation: City Centre

InspireThrough Inspire you can empower others to enjoy their lives. The project works with people with learning disabilities, supporting them to develop their potential. There are lots of opportunities including marketing or office work, assisting with music, drama or art sessions or just going on trips to the pub, shops or library. All help build social and independent-living skills. Inspire even have a charity shop where you can support someone to lend a hand – or even just help out for an hour yourself.

Commitment: 3 hrs per weekLocation: City Centre

Fantasticopportunity to try

something completelydifferent; nice to get

my handsdirty for a change!

“ “



InterVolWant to volunteer abroad? Volunteers fundraise together as a group to raise the cash to travel to Uganda with a local health and sanitation NGO called Little Big Africa. Students build water tanks, protect water sources and build efficient stoves. Through their newsletter, InterVol also help raise awareness of the stories that we don’t normally get to hear about Africa. Commitment: FlexibleLocation: University Park

Knit-a-Soc Whether you’re a skilled knitter or have never picked up a pair of needles before, Knit-a-Soc want you! There’s tons of ways to use your seasoned or newly acquired knitting skills to help the lives of others. There’s 2 ongoing projects throughout the year: knitting clothes for premature babies at QMC hospital, and knitting blankets for Nottingham’s elderly residents. Knit-a-Soc are planning lots of smaller projects too – so keep your eyes peeled for updates on the SU website or their Facebook page. Whether you want to teach others to knit or pick up some skills yourself then get in touch!

Commitment: VariesLocation: University Park

Lab in the Lorry (Business Futures)This interactive mobile science laboratory (yep, in a LORRY!) is run by science / engineering volunteers. It aims to give 11 – 14 year olds the opportunity to do science in the way it actually happens. So, experiments are exploratory and informed by curiosity and intuition, but they are also guided by experienced, practicing scientists. The Lorry’s greatest asset is its volunteers (that means YOU!) working scientists who want to share their time, enthusiasm and knowledge with young people.

Commitment: Min. of 2 full days (5 hours each)*Ideally volunteers would do several school

visits each term/year

Location: Various schools in Notts.

My only regret is not

getting involved with SVC sooner.

““



The Lenton Centre (TLC) This is a pioneering social enterprise at the heart of Lenton. Local people bought the Community/Leisure Centre from the City Council and are now entirely responsible for running it. It aims to be a hub of local activity for everyone offering education, health and therapy facilities. You can get involved with all aspects of the centre. From designing publicity materials, helping with funding bids, or just lending a hand in the gym for a few hours, there’s something for everyone.

Commitment: Various (from 1+ hr per week)Location: Lenton

Literacy Volunteers This project helps children throughout Notts. to enjoy reading. Volunteers work in primary schools with children who are finding reading difficult. You won’t teach reading. Instead you’ll talk, read and play word games on a 1-to-1 basis to give children more confidence, and help them to enjoy reading. Training and support are given, and sessions are arranged at times/locations to suit you.

Commitment: 1 morning/ afternoon per weekLocation: Nottingham City & County schools

Love Your UniThe idea behind this student-led project is to ‘be Jesus’ to your peers, following his example by serving those around you. Over the past year Love Your Uni have cleaned up after hall parties, served tea and coffee to students on their way to lectures, cleared gardens in Lenton, washed-up in student houses and hall kitchenettes and (through their ‘club outreach’ team) served people water outside Ocean. Although Love Your Uni student leaders have Christian beliefs and values anyone is welcome to take part in the project’s activities.

Commitment: VariesLocation: On campus

MarrowMarrow is the student branch of the Anthony Nolan Trust (ANT). Their aim is to “take back lives from leukaemia” through recruiting potential bone marrow donors to the national register. Volunteers are needed to help publicise Marrow’s cause, sign up fellow students to the ANT register and help raise vital funds to support the Trust.

Commitment: Varies (up to 2 hrs per week) Location: On Campus & Nottingham



National Autistic Society Befriending SchemeAs a volunteer befriender you would spend time each week helping someone with Autism/Asperger Syndrome (or their families). This can include taking a child to the park or going along with a teenager to a youth club or aerobics class. You may meet up with an adult for lunch and a film, or spend time listening and talking to a family member. You can even be an e-befriender offering help/support via email. Befriending can provide much needed support and offer a break to parents and siblings of those with Autism.


National Self-Harm Network (NSHN)This freephone service offers support and guidance to people at risk of self-harm. The helpline operates in the evening and at weekends. With the help of volunteers NSHN aims to offer this service all day, every day by 2012. As a volunteer you would be providing empathy and friendly support to those who self harm as well as their friends, family and carers. Full training (from the Samaritans) will be given to all volunteers. If you already have experience / training then you could become a volunteer supervisor.

Commitment: 4 hrs per week (for at least 6 months)Location: City Centre

New Art Exchange (NAE)NAE is the only dedicated Asian and African-Caribbean arts centre outside of London. This unique art/performance space needs volunteers to invigilate their galleries and commit to one weekly shift during the run of an exhibition. You can also act as an usher for performances, help with educational workshops, develop new projects and play a part in the Volunteer Involvement Programme events (VIP). The VIP programme is an excellent opportunity for anyone wishing to pursue a career in the arts and gain some work experience in this field.

Commitment: Varies (approx. 2 – 3 hrs per week)Location: Radford/Hyson Green“ “It was a

thoroughly enjoyable and

rewarding experience.



Nottingham and Notts Refugee Forum (NNRF)Want to help improve refugees experience in Nottingham? NNRF supports refugees and asylum seekers, providing advice services and social activities such as BBQ’s, film nights and football matches. Students hang out with refugees at the Square Centre on a Tuesday night (doing things like enjoying a meal, playing games, helping people with their homework or chilling out on the rooftop garden). There’s also the opportunity to go on to help with the advice service once you’ve volunteered for a few months at the Tuesday Night Project. Commitment: 3-4 hrs (You can go every week or just once!)Location: Mansfield Road (close to City Centre)

Nottingham Forest Community CoachingThis scheme helps children from all walks of life gain more enjoyment from football. Volunteers can assist coaches from the City Ground working in schools across the city, teaching football skills to local pupils. The programme creates an environment where children can learn new skills and develop greater confidence and self-esteem. It also hopes to deflect young people from unsocial behaviour by engaging them in sport while encouraging them to be tolerant and co-operative.


Nottingham Mencap Mencap enhances the quality of life of all those with a learning difficulty. They have 2 bases where volunteers can help. The first is a Social Enterprise with a café, shops, an IT centre and a basic skills centre. The second is Harpenden House which offers a variety of daytime activities from catering to horticulture, arts & crafts to work skills. Harpenden House also offers evening/weekend social clubs for adults and young people. If you’d like to support people to enjoy these activities, or have a skill that you could teach/show off then this could be the opportunity for you.

Commitment: 3 hrs per week Location: City Centre / Sherwood (near City Hospital)

Notts. County Council – Sports Development Want to make yourself more employable when you graduate? Why not become a sports volunteer? You don’t have to be sporty to be a sports volunteer! You can get involved as a secretary, treasurer or fundraiser for a local club. Or you can volunteer at one of the many sports events across the county - either as a coach, official or just helping out.

Commitment: FlexibleLocation: Various



Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS TrustThis is the major NHS provider of mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and older people, adult learning disability services and substance misuse services. Whether you have excellent people skills and want to befriend patients or clients, or specific skills and experience to offer alongside staff running groups or activities, however you want to get involved, there is an opportunity for you! Commitment: Minimum 2 hrs per week (for at least 6 months) Location: Various

Nottinghamshire HospiceThe hospice is committed to ensuring the best possible palliative care for adults with a life limiting illness. It also offers respite and support to patients’ carers. Volunteers are an essential part of the Hospice team working alongside patients and staff in Day-Care. If you have a hobby or skill, or belong to a club / society then you could even run your own sessions.

Commitment: Varies (minimum 2 hrs)Location: Nottingham

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustMany of the local Hospitals’ departments need regular help from volunteers. You can help provide a personal service which complements the provision of clinical care for patients served by the QMC / City sites. Volunteers must have good verbal communication skills and be flexible to meet the diverse needs of patients.

Commitment: 2.5 hrs per week (for 6 months)Location: QMC or City Hospital

Nottingham University Samworth Academy (NUSA)This academy is opening in its new building in September 2010. Its aim is to transform aspirations and opportunities in the local area. The school is looking for an imaginative and passionate group of student volunteers who will work with staff to make a difference to the school and the local area of Bilborough. Successful projects have included mentoring in literacy, music and modern foreign languages, coaching pupils towards examinations and supporting artistic and health projects. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to play a fundamental part in a project of national significance.

Commitment: Flexible (approx. 3 hrs per week)Location: Bilbrough, Nottingham



Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust (NWT)NWT is the county’s leading wildlife conservation charity working to protect and enhance local wildlife and habitats. They manage over 60 Nature Reserves from woodland to wetland. There are plenty of ways volunteers can help. You can stay in the warmth of the office with their busy communications, membership, development or finance teams (supporting with admin, PR, marketing, campaigning or organising events). Also, you can assist with educational activities or out on their reserves for practical conservation tasks. NWT take groups out volunteer across the county ever week day, but there’s special city-based outings every Wednesdays – perfect for students volunteers!

Commitment: FlexibleLocation: Greater Nottingham/countywide

Nottinghamshire YMCAVolunteers can help with a range of roles to help promote health, wellbeing and build stronger families and communities. Friendly, enthusiastic volunteers are needed to support staff and help young people of all ages and cultures enjoy positive experiences. You could help children aged 5-14 get involved with sports, games and crafts at holiday camps or after school clubs. If you relate well to young people and think you could be a positive role model you can support sessions with 11-19 year olds including music, radio, film and dance.

Commitment: 2 – 3 hrs per week / 1 or more days in the holidaysLocation: Nottingham City and beyond

Notts Housing Advice (previously Shelter) NHA offers confidential, independent and free advice on homelessness prevention, domestic violence, disrepair and rent/mortgage arrears. Its aim is to empower and support people to take control of their housing issues. In order to do this, reliable volunteers are vital in a range of roles including housing advice, admin and reception.

Commitment: 1 day per week (for at least 6 months)Location: Nottingham City

NRSB – Sport & HealthNRSB is a charity at the forefront of the local voluntary sector, empowering service users to achieve independence within the community. This is done using staff and volunteers to support over 2,000 visually impaired people throughout Nottinghamshire. Volunteers are needed to help with Weekly Gym & Swim sessions that take place at Nottingham Uni sites. The sessions are open to all regardless of experience or current fitness levels. Location: University Park / Jubilee campus Commitment: approx. 3 hrs per week



NRSB-QMC Link Project (Eye Clinic) This is a new project at the QMC hospital that brings together NRSB support services and Nottingham University Hospital staff. The clinic offers help to people with newly diagnosed and existing visual impairments and their carers. Volunteers need good people / listening skills, be naturally helpful and able to impart information in an understandable way. You will help, advise and inform people of the options available to them. NRSB offer lots of training and support to for volunteers.

Commitment: 3 hrs per week (for at least 3 months)Location: QMC Hospital – near Uni Park campus

NUH Youth Service Want to cheer up children in hospital or young people with long-term medical conditions? The Nottingham Uni Hospitals’ daily drop-in sessions give young people on the wards an opportunity for fun, activities and support. Volunteers are also needed to help at a nearby Youth Club that gives young people a chance to take part in a range of activities whilst meeting others in similar situations. This is your chance to join a nationally recognised service and make a real difference to young people’s lives.

Commitment: Min. 3 hrs per week for 6 months. Daily drop-in sessions run Mon-Fri from 2.30pm – 5.30pm Youth Club sessions run: Mon (6.30pm – 9.30pm) & Weds (6:30pm - 10pm)Location: QMC Campus / Monty Hind Youth Centre (next to the QMC)

NYAS Independent Visitors (Befrienders for children in care)After training and approval, volunteers are carefully matched on a 1-to-1 basis with a child/young person who would benefit from an independent adult friend. You will befriend and support the young person by visiting them monthly but what you do is dependent on their interests. You could play sports together, introduce them to new hobbies, or just go for a walk in the park and a bite to eat. NYAS provide a budget to allow you to engage in sports and recreational activities, and to travel to and from their home.

Commitment: A day out at least once a monthLocation: Various in and around NottinghamPlease note: A 2 year commitment is preferred to give the young person the stabilityand consistency they need in their lives.

Oakfield School All of Oakfield’s pupils (aged 3-19 years) have learning disabilities. Some also have physical disabilities. The school has a high number of teaching staff as well as assistants, therapists and medical staff. Pupils have gained from the input of lively and creative volunteers, who in turn have developed skills and an understanding of disabilities and special education. You can get involved in supporting extra-curricular drama, arts, dance, and poetry evening classes – as well as sports and general classroom support. Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: Near Nottm City Centre (Bilborough)



Pearson Centre for Young People This youth and community centre works mainly with children/young people aged 5 – 18 years. Volunteers work with the Nottingham Boys’/Girls’ Brigade and help lead the ‘Friday Night Live’ youth work sessions. Through various activities you can help build confidence/self esteem, life and leadership skills. The activities include sports, arts and crafts, drama, music, IT and day trips. The Centre also has a recording studio for volunteers and the children to use!

Commitment: 2 – 3 hrs per week (for min. of 4 weeks)Location: Beeston

Playcentre Based at the University of Nottingham this lively, fun centre provides care for (staff and students’) children aged 18 months – 5 years. It offers a range of daily activities to both stimulate and encourage the children to develop. Volunteers are needed to help out with activities – especially anyone with a skill or talent that you may be able to teach the children.

Commitment: At least 1 day per month (but more would be desirable)Location: University Park Campus, near the East Entrance.

Over The WallOver The Wall offer residential camps for children and young people aged 8-16 affected by serious illness. The aim is to provide fun, creative and challenging activities in a safe, secure and medically supervised environment. Campers enjoy drama, arts and crafts, sports, swimming, a chance to camp out, a disco night, talent shows and much more. You can assist and encourage the campers during their stay.

Commitment: 1 week + trainingLocation: Dorset, Scotland & the Midlands

Oxfam GB Oxfam works to find lasting solutions to poverty and suffering around the world. Over 700 shops and 22,000 volunteers help to raise the funds for their work. There are shops in Beeston and Nottingham city centre (including a Books & Music shop and a Clothing Boutique). You can be involved in all aspects of these: customer service; merchandising; sorting/pricing donations; even helping with their online sales. Commitment: Flexible (approx. 4 hrs per week)Location: Beeston / Nottm City Centre

I have really enjoyed volunteering so far. I would love to

get involved with more stuff!

“ “



Playing for SuccessInterested in education and sport? This scheme aims to raise the achievement and self-esteem of young people aged 10-14 from Primary and Secondary schools in the city. This is done by offering challenging and stimulating activities based around sport. So, there are 4 Playing for Success study centres: Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Tennis Centre, Nottingham Forest FC and the National Ice Centre. Although staffed by experienced teachers, volunteers are vital at the centres to help pupils develop key skills in literacy, numeracy and IT.

Commitment: 2 hrs per week (Mon – Thurs)Location: Various (as above)

Playworks Want to work with children, young people and their families in the community? If you like playing games, sports, or doing arts & crafts activities, this is for you! Playworks help children and families to reclaim their streets and local parks as places to play. As a volunteer you would help Playworks staff and other volunteers to deliver play sessions. By increasing the chances to play you will be helping to bring children, families and communities together, improve people’s sense of safety and help community cohesion. Playworks offer lots of training and support to volunteers.

Commitment: Flexible (approx 2 – 3 hrs per week)Location: Various (Nottingham City)

Radford Care Group This group offers elderly people a place to hang out, have fun and socialise. All of its visitors live independently but may feel isolated or lonely in the community. Volunteers are needed to help with the activities, meals and outings that the Care Group provides. You can help by lending a hand but also by offering support and a friendly ear.

Commitment: 2-3 hrs per weekLocation: Radford/Lenton

Reading Aunties & Uncles Practising reading is an invaluable way to progress and gain confidence but children don’t always have this opportunity. 4 Nottingham libraries have started the Reading Aunties & Uncles scheme and need volunteers to read with children in their local library after school. This is a great way to get started in working with children and is an easy and flexible way to see if teaching/education is for you.

Commitment: 1 hr per week (min. of half a term)Location: Various (10 – 20 mins from City Centre)



READ International Now in its 6th year, this award winning charity (that started life as a student-led project) works to give Tanzanian students a brighter future. Volunteers collect unused educational resources from local schools then redistribute them in Tanzania. You’ll help build contacts with schools, collect and sort books, and then have the chance to spend your summer in Tanzania supporting READ’s overseas work. Fundraising is crucial to the project – last year they raised £7,000 to get the 188,000 collected books to Tanzania – so if you have any good ideas to get cash coming in, let us know!

Commitment: 1+ hr per weekLocation: Various and on campus

Refugee Support (British Red Cross)Want to help an international development charity shape and run projects for refugees and asylum seekers? If so, the British Red Cross want to hear from you! You could be liaising with organisations to arrange food distribution for refugees, helping with case work, or organising accommodation for refugees. You may even get the opportunity to implement your own ideas for projects. Commitment: 2 hrs per week (for 6 months) Location: City Centre

Riding for the Disabled Want to have fun in the country helping disabled children and adults enjoy sessions at a local riding school? This group of enthusiastic volunteers meet up twice a week to enable people of all ages to achieve their dreams and fulfil their potential. Volunteers assist with the therapeutic and skills building sessions and games. 3 helpers are needed for each horse so bring some friends or expect to make some new ones!

Commitment: Weds AM / Thurs ALL DAY (2-4 hrs per month)Location: Keyworth, Notts

Rosehill SchoolThis is a specialist school for pupils with a diagnosis of an Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The School has its own distinctive approach, employing a range of methods including Art, Music and Speech Therapy, and with a great emphasis on Creative and Sensory interaction to deliver the Curriculum. All these approaches help to decrease the pupil’s anxieties and help them to reach their full potential. As a volunteer you would provide support to students and staff.

Commitment: 2-4 hrs per weekLocation: Carlton



RSPB If you enjoy the countryside and nature you could spend a week away from it all on the cheap with RSPB! The Royal Society for Protection of Birds offer volunteering holidays all over the UK. They are available throughout the year and are a great chance to help with conservation work, meet new people, explore new areas and keep fit in the great outdoors!

Commitment: 1 week (residential)Location: all over the UK

SamaritansThis is a long standing, national organisation that provides a 24-hour service offering confidential, emotional support by phone, e-mail, letter and face-to-face contact. This is for anyone experiencing feelings of distress and despair, including those that may lead to suicide. Each branch is completely volunteer-run, and Nottingham Samaritans have opportunities for both Samaritan and fundraising work.

Commitment: Varies (2 – 3 hrs per week)Location: City CentrePlease note: A minimum commitment of 1 year is preferred so final years are not recommended

to apply.

“I volunteered at a local primary school and it was

a brilliant experience!

“



Ambleside Primary:runs an enrichment academy which gives children opportunities to take part in a range of different workshops such as cooking, cycling, sports coaching, gardening and Spanish.

Beeston Fields: a large primary school close to University Park’s West Entrance. Volunteers can be involved in a variety of classes with focus on helping some of the younger children with their reading.

Beeston Rylands: this junior school believes in teamwork: staff, parents, volunteers, governors and the local community working together, to make the school a place to be proud of!

Dunkirk Primary: needs a small group of volunteers to regularly attend the school and be involved in lessons and activities. They must be dedicated and become part of the school community.

John Clifford Primary: volunteers are needed to help run enrichment sessions. You can help teach children a variety of extra-curricular activities each week, as well as supporting the many events that run at the school throughout the year.

Meadow Lane Infants: this school welcomes international students from the local Beeston area who would like to bring some of their home culture to the school and help teach cultural games and activities.

Radford Primary School:this bustling primary school has all kinds of fun activities happening all day for volunteers to get stuck into!

Robert Shaw Primary: volunteers are involved in all aspects of this school and teachers like having extra help in the classes they run. (Close to Jubilee Campus)

Southwold Primary: this school (also close to Jubilee) has various curricular & extracurricular activities. They need students with a range of skills to help in classes – from reading stories to assisting with science / music lessons.

Sutton Bonington: if you live / have classes in Sutton Bonington this is the perfect volunteer project for you. Integrate with the school and also help brighten their expanding outdoor areas.

Trent Vale Infants: this school (in the Rylands area of Beeston) is set in spacious grounds which the pupils & volunteers gardening club helps maintain. You can also help encourage reading and take part in art workshops.

Most schools need volunteers for approx. 1 morning / afternoon per week.

Primary Schools



Save The Children Fancy a real retail challenge? Want to re-fashion the charity shop image? Interested in books, clothes or music? Save The Children is an international charity committed to saving lives in emergencies, campaigning for children’s rights, and improving their futures through long-term development work. They want to make their shops stand out from the competition and need creative and energetic volunteers to help. AND their local shop is just a stone’s throw from Lenton - on Derby Road!

Commitment: Min. 4 hrs per week (for 3 months)Location: Between Lenton & City Centre

School Governors One-Stop Shop (SGOSS) This charity recruits volunteers to become governors in schools. Schools really benefit from having a mixed group of School Governors. Students (along with their CVs and future employment prospects!) benefit hugely from volunteering as School Governors too. If you’d like to make a real difference to the education system and lives of local school pupils this is your chance.

Commitment: 3 meetings per year Location: Various Schools in the Nottingham area

Please note: as SGOSS asks for a substan-tial commitment (over 1 year) it is not rec-ommended that final year students apply

Scouts Nottinghamshire Scouts is part of the world’s biggest youth organisation with over 10 million youth members. Scouting gives opportunities to all young people to experience a wide range of activities ranging from climbing to kayaking, rafting to pot holing. You can get involved at all levels from helping to run and plan activities to administration. The organisation has now been running for 100 years providing fun and activities, which encourage young people to work together and get outdoors.

Commitment – 3 hrs per week Location – Various around Notts (including Lenton Abbey)

SHARE UgandaA group of students went to Uganda to volunteer and were shocked by what they saw. They came back with the passion and dedication to help fight AIDS and HIV and raise funds to help more children to be able to attend school. You can play a vital role in this work by helping to organise and run events to raise funds and awareness. From 5-a-side football tournaments to club / film nights, it’s up to you what you do to get the cash rolling in!

Commitment: 1 - 2 hrs per weekLocation: Various (mainly on campus)



SIFE Nottingham SIFE is a global not-for-profit organisation that encourages students to set up project teams to help the community in a sustainable and enterprising way. The Nottingham team continue to work with disadvantaged young people, school children, local charities and businesses – and even run projects internationally. It’s a great way to improve your skills while helping others, and sponsors (including Accenture, Deloitte and Procter & Gamble) often recruit directly from SIFE Nottingham. More enthusiastic volunteers are needed to get new projects underway this year.

Commitment: VariesLocation: Various

St. Ann’s Allotments (STAA)Want to help improve the oldest and largest allotments in Europe? This Grade 2 listed site needs volunteers to help with practical conservation work. Come and get your hands dirty and renovate plots for new allotment owners to use. You’ll be helping local wildlife as well as the environment and the local community, not bad for an afternoon’s work! If you’re a budding Bill Oddie and fancy a bit of digging, clearing and planting get in touch…

Commitment: 2 – 4 hrs per monthLocation: Near City Centre

Stonebridge City FarmThis inner city farm is run for the benefit of users with a range of issues (including learning difficulties, physical disabilities, mental health issues and disadvantaged young people). All the work is done by the clients with staff/volunteer support. Using horticulture and animal husbandry, disadvantaged people are able to develop their work, social and personal skills in a real working environment.Ideal for anyone studying psychology, social work and care.

Commitment: 2 hrs per weekLocation: St Anns

Students for Safe MotherhoodThis student-led project is linked to the Nottingham based international healthcare charity, MCAI. They are dedicated to saving the lives of seriously ill children, babies and mothers-to-be in some of the world’s poorest countries. Students for Safe Motherhood aims to raise greater awareness of maternal health care issues and focus specifically on MCAI’s project in the Gambia. You can help by campaigning, lobbying, raising funds/awareness, organising events and undertaking research.

Commitment: Various (approx 1 - 2 hrs per week)Location: Varies (on campus / around Nottingham)



Student Sport Coaching Initiative (SSCI) Are you looking to get involved with sports coaching in Nottingham? This student-led scheme was set up for sports-mad students who want to get more involved in coaching whilst at Uni. The SSCI was started by Ed, a Nottingham Uni footballer and coach of the Women’s Football Team. After struggling to find out about opportunities to coach in Notts he decided to help make it easier for others to get active in local sports. Commitments: Flexible (as little as a few hours per term)Location: Various

Surface Gallery Interested in a career in the arts? Want to curate exhibitions? Are you a marketing mogul? This Gallery is an independent contemporary arts space in the City Centre that showcases new art from all over Britain and beyond. Since opening in 1999, it has been run entirely by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis. You can get involved in all areas of running the gallery from fundraising to setting up events. Long-term volunteers can even help choose and curate shows for the Gallery.

Commitment: Varies (preferably at least 1 day/2 half days per week)Location: City Centre

Tag Rugby Coaching Now in its 8th year, this project has successfully helped coach over 1500 primary school children. Coaching takes place at schools near the university for a 5 week period (from January – April). After this, a festival is held on campus and the winners of the tournament get to play against Trent’s winning team at a Varsity match. As with all the Varsity matches pride comes with victory and after a draw last year a win is all-important in 10/11! All volunteer coaches gain a (FREE!) RFU-recognised coaching qualification.

Commitment: 2 hrs per week (for 5 – 6 weeks)Location: Various City / Beeston Primary Schools

Tools For Self Reliance (TFSR) Want to help people in the developing world? TFSR volunteers repair old, unwanted tools and sewing machines to give them a valuable second lease of life overseas. Tools are collected, refurbished in the TFSR workshop (on campus) then sent in complete kits to Africa. The project has a massive impact both in the UK and abroad, creating new opportunities for people. It’s a very hands-on way to tackle the root causes of poverty and overseas debt. No experience is necessary and all students (male/female) are welcome. Commitment: 1 – 3 hrs (Wednesday PM drop-in)Location: University Park Campus



Urban NatureThis practical environmental project is a must for anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation or a love of being outside. The project took over a patch at St Ann’s allotments (a real wildlife haven less than a mile from the city centre!) and now visits once a week to transform it. This group project is a great chance to meet likeminded people, and have a direct impact on a very worthwhile and beautiful site. How you get involved is up to you, volunteers are currently involved in research, promotions and the management committee, as well as hands-on practical conservation work.

Commitment: 3+ hrs per weekLocation: St Ann’s allotments near City Centre

Victim Support in NottinghamshireVictim Support is an independent charity for people who have been affected by crime. Volunteers offer free, confidential, emotional and practical support to victims of crime or people attending court as a witness. Specialised opportunities are available for suitable volunteers to provide support in the Coroner’s Court. Also, if appropriate, you could help children/young people, or victims of serious crimes. Accredited training, ongoing support and supervision are given.

Commitment: Approx. 2-4 hrs per fortnight (for at least 1 year)* Location: Various (Nottinghamshire)*Please note: it is not recommended that final year students apply – unless you can definitely commit for at least 12 months

Vitalise Vitalise provides respite care for people with disabilities at residential centres in Nottingham, Southport, Chigwell, Southampton and Bodmin. This allows the carer to have a break while the disabled person has the opportunity to go on a holiday. You can help with all aspects of the holiday to ensure guests have the best possible time. Training is provided, and full time staff are on hand 24 hours a day to support you.

Commitment: One-week residentialLocation: West Bridgford, Nott’m (or one of the other centres across the UK)

Voluntary Action BroxtoweBased in Beeston Town Centre, this project needs volunteers for a variety of roles. You can help out as a receptionist welcoming people to the centre or gain office experience by offering admin support. Bilingual volunteers can also help the Black & Ethnic Minority support worker with the Language Buddies scheme. A range of language skills (from Arabic to Polish) are needed to help school pupils who are new to Beeston to improve their English writing and speaking. Commitment: 1 – 3 hrs per weekLocation: Beeston



Working in Tandem (WiT) This student led organisation supports educational projects in Tanzania. WiT currently support an education centre built by Nottingham students in 2005. It provides free education for the local community and now includes a kindergarten. WiT also supports a community primary school in a neighbouring village. They aim to raise awareness within the university and wider community about issues surrounding Africa and its development. Volunteers are needed to help publicise and raise funds and awareness for these centres. In the summer, you could also have the chance to travel to Tanzania to volunteer at the projects.

Commitment: 1 hr weekly meeting + one-off events / fund-raisingLocation: Weekly meetings help in Portland building

WRVS Coffee Shop Do you enjoy meeting new people? Want to help a national charity raise money for older people? The WRVS needs volunteers to help serve drinks and snacks at their coffee shops in the QMC / City Hospital. You can also help out with paperwork and admin support (and gain some office skills/experience) if you wish.

Commitment: Minimum 2 - 3 hrsLocation: QMC/City Hospital

Young Ambassadors for FinanceAre you passionate about empowering people to get out of poverty? This student-led project aims to educate students about what microfinance is, and how it can be used to eradicate poverty. This is done through organising talks and forums with guest speakers, and fundraising for Opportunity International (a charity that offers microfinance in developing countries). Volunteers are needed for events management, raising vital funds and spreading the word about microfinance.

Commitment: Flexible - as little as a few hrs per yearLocation: Various @ University Park

Young Enterprise – Primary Programme Designed for pupils aged 5-11, this scheme provides “building blocks” for skills development and understanding the world of work through practical, fun activities. Pupils learn about how and why individuals, families, communities and nations work together. You can work alongside a teacher presenting a series of 5 fun, interactive sessions. Materials and lesson plans are provided and full training is given.

Commitment: 5 x 1 hour sessions (over a week / in a single day)Location: Various



Young Potential (YP) YP works with young people aged 13-25 who live with disadvantage such as crime, poverty, family breakdown, violence or abuse. They provide intensive coaching and ongoing support to enable the young people to engage with social responsibility, citizenship and new opportunities in their communities. You can support the young people in different projects from schools, gardening or sports to 1-to-1 mentoring, one-off projects or helping with the project admin (including design/web development).

Commitment: Various Location: Beeston/City Centre

ZambiAIDS This student-led project supports people with AIDS in Zambia by fundraising for the charity PEPAIDS. ZambiAIDS want people to join and help make a real difference to people’s lives in Zambia. You can help out as much or as little as you like from putting up posters around campus to organising a club event to raise money and awareness.

Commitment: Flexible – as little as a few hours a year! Location: Various (on campus / City Centre) “I’ve been

involved with Tag Rugby for two years now and have found it

to be an amazing project…

“



““

Mission Statement

To provide a diverse rangeof volunteering opportunities

to enable studentsto learn new skills and enhance

their personal development.

SVC volunteers are informed,supported and active within

the Students’ Unionand wider community.

Student Record FormFirst Name: Middle Name(s): Last Name:

University Number: Year of Study (e.g. 2 of 3) Telephone:

___ of ___

Date of Birth: University Email: Email 2:

Do you have a skills/talent that would benefit some of our project’s service users? Please tell us about your skills here: For example do you: play the guitar/ sing / speak a 2nd language / play a sport?

Please enter the projects and volunteering roles that you are interested in:

Project: e.g. Oxfam Role: e.g. Classroom Assistant

Code of conduct/disclaimer:I understand that by participating in any volunteering activity through the Centre I am acting as a representative of the University of Nottingham Students’ Union. I agree to the use of my photo or likeness for publicity purposes at the discretion of the Student Volunteer Centre and its partners.

Signed: Date:

For Office Use Only.Please Do Not Fill In.

Additional Information:

Volunteering Activities:

Project Role Date Referred By Whom

Student Volunteer Centre, Students’ Union

Portland Building, The University of Nottingham,

University Park, Nottingham NG� �RD

T: 0�� 0

E: [email protected]

Printed on recycled paper.

This handbook is available in alternative formats on request.

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Documents

Student Volunteer Centre Projects Handbook 2010-2011