Various roles - Leeds

​Lived experience of struggling with self-harm is required*

What are we looking for?
We are hoping to find people of all genders with creative, social, DIY or gardening skills who have ideally already benefitted from Battle Scars services, although this is not essential. We want volunteers with those relevant skills or interests to help out at our premises in South Leeds. At the moment we can only consider adult volunteers. There is a full application and selection process, so please be aware that not everyone who wishes to volunteer with us will be recruited.​

How could these volunteers help?
Our daytime groups at Onward have social time before and after the support group. From 11:00-12:30 and from 14:00-14:30 there is social time for creative activities such as arts, crafts & creative writing, as well as the opportunity to play board games or just chat. Volunteers will participate in these activities with group members, as well as engage with individuals who may be feeling vulnerable. Our other roles include assisting with the running of services, building maintenance or helping with the garden; we have a variety of tasks to suit a range of abilities. Neurodiverse people are particularly welcome to apply. We run an over 50s peer  support group, and volunteers aged 50+ would be ideal for joining this team.

Location:
​Onward Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub, Onward House, Millshaw Park Way, Leeds, LS11 0LS
Days:
- Thursdays for helping out with social time activities - not required to help out every week but a regular pattern would be helpful (11:00-12:30 & 14:00-14:30 - encouraged to stay for the group)
​- ​Fridays for helping out with social time activities for the 50+ group - same as above, not expected to help every week (11:00-12:30 & 14:00-14:30 - encouraged to stay for the group)
​- Days/times of your choice to help out with the building or the garden

What training do we provide?
All volunteers need to attend Safeguarding and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion training. Further training opportunities are also available, such as our courses on self-harm, eating disorders, personality disorders, autism and many more. 

How do the volunteers benefit and what support do they get?
We value our volunteers and ensure they feel part of the team. By volunteering with us, volunteers build on existing skills or develop new ones, they take advantage of their lived experience to help others and get a sense of purpose. We provide role specific training as well as opportunities of further training. Ongoing support is provided by the volunteer manager, other staff and more experienced volunteers. These roles are suitable for people of all ages and some could be an ideal addition to a CV. Travel expenses can be covered up to £5. 

Does this role require a DBS check?
Most of these roles require a DBS check depending on frequency of volunteering. The cost is covered by Battle Scars. ​

*Lived experience means that you self-harm or that you are struggling with self-harm urges now or in the past.

​If you would like to apply, please select the application form below. If you'd like more information, please contact the volunteer manager. 

“The role of facilitator in our peer support groups is incredibly important – this is where the charity began, bringing people together and offering support from individuals who have had similar lived experiences. “Our facilitators are able to develop creative ideas for topics and develop skills around how to facilitate groups, and how to support others who are struggling with their mental health. They are part of a team of individuals from across the UK who take great pride in facilitating our groups, and there is a real sense of belonging that we are keen to continue to foster.” 
Volunteer Manager