Volunteer Youth Worker (Aspiration Project) Part Time

Roma Support Group

Youth Activities Volunteer (Aspiration Project)

Roma Support Group (RSG) was the first Roma-led charity to be established in the UK. Since its founding in 1998, the organisation has assisted thousands of Roma families in accessing welfare, housing, education, and employment, as well as empowering Roma communities through a wide range of advocacy and cultural programmes.

The Aspiration Project supports Roma children and young people through a combination of one-to-one education advocacy, in-depth outreach work and a programme of after-school activities. These activities form a holistic approach to working with young Roma people aiming to enhance their self-confidence, life aspirations and improve their health and well-being.

Purpose of role:

To assist with activities organised for Roma youth by the Aspiration Project.

About the role:

• Hours: 4 hrs per week (subject to project development)
• Location: East London
• An ideal opportunity for those with an interest in youth activism, youth development, community outreach, social work, education, and cultural advocacy.

Role Outline:

• Support the planning and delivery of a variety of youth activities, such as arts and crafts sessions and youth club meetings
• Assist with the organisation of special outings and events, such as educational trips to museums
• Facilitate and participate in activities and events and ensure the safety and engagement of all participants
• Occasionally conduct research to identify potential partnerships and new opportunities for youth engagement (e.g. locating community theatres willing to offer free workshop spaces)

Skills and qualities needed:

Essential:

• Cultural sensitivity
• A proactive, enthusiastic approach
• Conflict resolution and challenging behaviour management skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with people who have different levels of language proficiency or learning needs
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with staff and other volunteers
• Excellent administrative and organisation skills
• Long-term commitment to the project (6+ months)

Desirable:

• Proficiency in Romanian, Polish, Slovak, or a dialect of Romanes
• Prior work with children and young people
• Experience with vulnerable youth
• Leadership or activity organising skills
• Familiarity with Roma culture

Benefits:

• Opportunity for training on topics such as safeguarding and youth engagement
• Agreed out-of-pocket expenses such as lunch and travel will be reimbursed

How to apply:

To apply for this position you should fill in the Volunteer Application Form and email it to Ted Sale, Volunteer Coordinator,