Volunteer

Description

Depaul run a number of emegency services which  provide, on a one-night-only basis, a warm bed, an evening meal, a breakfast and access to shower facilities for vulnerable men and women experiencing homelessness.

The café is the centre of the service and the heart of the night's activities. We require two volunteers to run the café each night. 

The aim of this role is to serve pre-made food and engage in conversation and relationship building with our residents. Creating a warm and welcoming environment is essential. 

Volunteers will be provided with a full induction into Depaul's services prior to begining their volunteer role. 

Is training provided?: Yes

Please note that Garda Vetting is required for this position.

Tasks that the volunteer(s) will be expected to undertake:

• To participate in a handover at the start of your shift
• To help set up the café before opening times
• To provide a warm welcome to each resident in our service
• To serve pre-prepared food
• To keep service counters/tables/tea & coffee station clean and fully stocked
• To keep dining area clean and wipe down tables
• To facilitate and participate in the service activities
• To observe/engage in service duties that staff feel appropriate
• To engage with residents and encourage conversation
• To inform staff of any issues that may arise or concerns you may have

Skills required for this role:

• Be able to create and warm and welcoming environment for residents
• Respond appropriately to challenging situations, as guided by the staff team
• Promote respect, diversity and equal opportunity
• Maintain open communication with the staff and volunteers manager

In addition, volunteers will be provided with training in

• Health & Safety
• PPE and sharps guidelines
• Professional boundaries
• Confidentiatlity and Data Protection

and will be expected to understand and follow local policies and procedures with regards to these .

Details of time commitment needed for role:
We ask volunteers to offer a commitment 2-4 hours per week. Café volunteers are needed every evening from approx. 6pm to 10pm.

Minimum time commitment per week:
2 hour p/week

Additional screening required for this role:
Prospective volunteers will be asked to complete an application form and give details of two referees. Garda Vetting must also be completed for all volunteers before taking up their role.