Volunteer role outline
Syrian Resettlement (VPRS – Vulnerable Persons
Relocation Scheme) - English Practice Volunteer
Do you want to be part of a resettlement programme by helping
newly arrived refugees gain self-confidence and improve their
English?
Do you want to be part of a team that is working to build a
movement for change for refugees and asylum seekers?
What is the role?
Our clients are Syrian refugees who have recently arrived to live in the West Midlands from refugee
camps where they may have lived for some years. English language acquisition is vital for their
resettlement and integration and therefore we need volunteers to help them practice their English
out in their communities and in every day settings.
What is the time commitment?
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You’ll need to be available to complete some initial induction and training sessions and then
to commit to a full day or 2 half days a week minimum, Monday- Friday, 9.30 am – 4.30 pm.
Some flexibility may be required. Hours are likely to be approximately 1 to 2 hours per week
with a client. This does not include travel time, (up to 2 hours per week for a round trip), and
planning time, approx. 1 hour per week.
Refugee Action volunteers commit to the service for at least 6 months.
Will I receive training and support?
All Refugee Action volunteers will receive:
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Induction and number of training sessions;
On-going support from a volunteer supervisor;
Reasonable expenses to cover travel and lunch
Where would I be based?
You will be based at Refugee Action’s Birmingham Office.
However, you will be required to travel throughout Birmingham to carry out ESOL appointments.
Volunteer role outline
What are the main duties?
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Help clients practice their English based on identified specific learning goals. This could take
place in the client’s home, in a public place or by going on local visits. Specific learning goals
may include : helping them to recognise and understand letters addressed to them,
practicing making appointments and giving personal details over the phone, reading
newspapers together, going to local shops, libraries, leisure centres or other local services
Help clients practice what they have learnt in the classroom
Help clients with their homework
Refer any wider issues back to the relevant resettlement worker
Keep accurate records of contact meetings
What skills are we looking for?
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Understanding of and commitment to the needs of asylum seekers, refugees and other
displaced people
Ability to work with people from different cultures
Commitment to working to principles of empowerment and independence
Understanding of principle of equal opportunities and confidentiality
Ability to communicate in an accurate, brief and clear manner
Knowledge of Arabic language is helpful but not essential
Punctuality and reliability, with the ability to journey plan and arrive at appointments on
time
Basic IT skills, (ability to type and send word documents by email)
Good written and verbal communication in English, (i.e. to be able to help a client practice
their English with confidence, and to be able to communicate with people of different
backgrounds in a variety of settings)
Willingness to develop new knowledge and skills
Ability to source and use appropriate learning materials
ESOL or teaching experience is helpful but not required
We ask for 2 references from all our volunteers. This role also requires a DBS (criminal record)check
at standard level
How do I apply?
Please register your interest online at www.refugee-action.org.uk/volunteer
You will be required to attend Information Session on 22nd February 2016-10am-12pm
We are committed to making every reasonable adjustment to the workplace or working
arrangements so as to accommodate people with disabilities.