Do you speak a language such as Punjabi, Hindi, Bengali, Somali, Polish or any other community language in addition to English and live in the East Midlands? If so we would like your help to increase the awareness of BME (black and minority ethnic) visually impaired people of available eye-care services.
You will provide support and advice to people mainly at local community venues and refer them to the relevant local and national eye care services. You will also make people aware of the common eye conditions and how to manage them.
No DBS Check will be required for this role.
What will I be doing?
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Working with local BME grass roots communities, liasing with community groups, attending events and working with BME health groups
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Providing information and advice on eye-care services to visually impaired BME people
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Providing information on managing sight loss to visually impaired BME people
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Increasing the awareness of the registration process amongst BME communities
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Providing training on the availability of and how to use visual aids
What skills and qualities can I bring to this role?
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Be willing to learn about eye conditions and service provision
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Ability to get on with people and to listen
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Be friendly, supportive and positive
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Be willing to attend formal and informal training sessions and disseminate the information learnt
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Knowledge and familiarity with your local community
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An interest in health issues and BME communities
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Ability to speak community language in addition to English confidently where relevant
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Commitment to project
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Awareness of impact of inequality on BME Communities health
When will I be needed?
Flexible, days and hours to suit volunteer
Location
To work in the local communities in the areas of Northampton, Leicester, Loughborough, Derby, Chesterfield, Mansfield and Nottingham
What will I gain from the role?
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Knowledge about eye conditions and service provision
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Knowledge of products and visual aids
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An understanding of the issues facing some blind and partially sighted people
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The chance to learn new skills and gain new experiences
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The knowledge that you are making a difference to your local community
What support will I be given?
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Training on eye conditions and impact of sight loss
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Training on the registration process and social welfare support available
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Training on using visual aids and managing visual impairment
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Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed
Additional Information
Volunteers should be able to get to local community venues and organisations either independently or by public transport.
The volunteers will be required to have a Enhanced CRB check.
How do I apply?
If you would like to apply for a role electronically, please download and complete the application form (Word 79KB). If you would like the application form in a different format (such as standard print, large print, braille or audio) or if you have any general enquiries, please contact the Volunteering Team on: 0845 603 0575 or 01733 375450 or email volunteering@rnib.org.uk