Ice-Skating Support Volunteer

About Sense:

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As an Ice-Skating Support Volunteer, you’ll be joining our Sense Active team, supporting Sense’s Activity Facilitator, alongside another volunteer, with the delivery of weekly ice-skating sessions for disabled people with complex needs and their carers. With over 25 years’ experience, our facilitators deliver safe, enjoyable and inclusive ice-skating sessions. You’ll play an important part in supporting disabled participants and carers to develop their independence and confidence, socialise with others, and have a thrilling experience!

A DBS check will be needed due to the setting and the likelihood of regular contact with people we support. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through this process.

Key responsibilities:

You’ll spend time supporting a range of activities, including:

• Standing and moving on the ice for extended periods of time (up to 3 hours).
• Supporting participants on the ice (physical and instructional support).
• Helping participants with collection and return of skates.
• Supporting carers to become more confident on the ice.
• Maintaining relationships with attendees and carers by taking the time to socialise and build rapport.
• Supporting the set-up and closing of activities.
• Exposure to cold temperatures and slippery surfaces.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• A confident ice-skater able to skate at good level.
• Comfortable wearing ice skates and engaging in physical activity.
• Experienced in working with disabled people is desirable but not essential.
• Someone with a positive attitude and will enjoy the opportunity to learn more about working with disabled people.
• Patient, caring, positive and have good interpersonal skills
• Able to work as part of a team and take instruction from others.
• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training on communication and engagement with disabled people with complex needs
• Full induction at the Ice Rink by our Sense Activity Facilitator
• Ongoing support and guidance from your team including access to personal development support
• Expenses for parking costs if driving to the venue
• Other reasonable expenses, prior to previous agreement.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it.

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate