Community Engagement Volunteer - #188306

Connect and Offload Helpline
Community Engagement Volunteer

Title of Opportunity: Community Engagement Volunteer
Location: Gloucestershire, covering all localities
Payment / Expenses: All reasonable and agreed expenses will be paid
Hours: 2-5 hours per week, with flexibility required during busier weeks when events are scheduled.

About the role
Connect and Offload is a mental health support helpline designed to provide accessible emotional support and signposting for people who may need someone to talk to.
We know that raising awareness in local communities is essential so that people understand how to access support when they need it most. To help strengthen our local presence, we are introducing a new volunteer role: Community Engagement Volunteer.
This volunteer opportunity is ideal for someone who is passionate about making a difference in their community and enjoys connecting with people and local organisations.
The role will involve attending community events, wellbeing fairs, local networking opportunities, and outreach activities across Gloucestershire to promote Connect and Offload, raise awareness of the support available, and build relationships with local services and communities.
This is a voluntary role and offers valuable experience for anyone interested in community engagement, mental health promotion, or future employment within the voluntary sector.

What tasks will be involved?

This role will include:

• Attending local events across Gloucestershire to represent Connect and Offload
• Promoting the helpline and speaking to members of the public about the service
• Distributing promotional materials and resources
• Engaging with local services, organisations, and community groups
• Helping raise awareness of mental health support available locally
• Feeding back community insights and opportunities to the team
• Supporting the team during awareness campaigns and busy event periods

Who should apply for this role?
We would like to hear from people who are enthusiastic about community engagement and passionate about improving access to support for others.
Previous community engagement experience would be welcomed; however, this is not essential. If you are motivated, approachable, and passionate about making a positive difference in Gloucestershire communities, we would love to hear from you.

What will you need to do?
As a Community Engagement Volunteer, you will work flexibly alongside the Connect and Offload team, Service manager and community engagement officer to attend agreed events and outreach opportunities.
Some weeks may involve minimal hours, while busier weeks may require additional flexibility depending on event schedules.
You will act as a positive representative of the service, confidently engaging with members of the public and professionals.

What support will I get?
You will receive support and supervision from the Connect and Offload team, including:

• Regular check-ins
• Guidance before events
• Promotional materials and key messaging
• Ongoing support to build confidence in the role

Full induction and training will be provided before attending events independently.
You will also have access to volunteer support through Rethink Mental Illness.

What skills, knowledge & experience do I need?

The following will be valued:

• Good communication skills
• Confidence speaking to new people
• Passion for supporting local communities
• Interest in mental health awareness
• Ability to represent the service professionally
• Reliability and flexibility
• Willingness to attend agreed events
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Previous community engagement, outreach, volunteering, or event experience would be beneficial, but not essential.

Is a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Check required for this role?
A DBS check may be required depending on the nature of events attended.