Become a volunteeer

We work with many people who need to find new private rentals and require additional support to navigate and understand the process. Volunteers can be matched with a person to support them to look for properties, submit applications and attend viewings. This is often a short-term engagement, for around 4 - 6 weeks while someone is trying to find a new private rental. It ideally involves the volunteer meeting with the client between 1 - 3 times a week over this period.  

This summer we are organising a daytrip to Brighton for families. Please let us know if you would like to support this activity! It will involve coming on the coach with us and exploring the town together. 

Many people that we work with need support to find a job - whether this be their first job in the UK or a job that allows them to build on their skills and experiences.  We are looking for volunteers who can help people to search for jobs, including supporting with CV and cover letter writing, online job searches, making applications and preparing for interviews. Often this support takes place intensively for a short period.  Preferably, volunteers will commit to meeting with a client once or twice a week over a 4 - 6 week period.

Support people to build their confidence speaking and listening to English by becoming a Conversation Buddy. Conversation Buddies meet with students once a week for an hour at the Hub (or a location nearby that suits you both). These roles are fully supported by our ESOL team so you will get lots of support and guidance.  

When someone moves to a new country, it can take time to understand local cultural activities. For example, we have found that children's parties are a source of confusion and can cause stress for people who have not grown up in the UK but want to have parties for their children. We are looking for volunteers who can work  with a family to plan and prepare for a simple, cost effective birthday party for their child. If you have planned any children's parties in the past - from simple parties at home to soft play to picnics in the park - then perhaps you can support a family to plan theirs!

Children arriving in the UK have a steep learning curve to learn English and catch up with their peers at school.  Many will have missed some education due to the process of being displaced.  Our Homework Supporters visit them at home after school and help with reading, writing and other subjects. We match according to skills and interest, this is a very rewarding role particularly for anyone who has some teaching experience.  

Learning English is the key to successful integration.  Local colleges only offer part time courses, which is not enough for many of the people we work with.  At EERN we offer many free group classes at the Hub. These run from 10am-2pm Monday and Tuesday. We are always looking for volunteer teachers who can help with these by running a small group class.

Some of the people we work with need lifts to appointments, help with accessing services or just general support to find their way around.  If you are happy to help occasionally, you can join a dedicated WhatsApp group and jump in if you are available.  We may also ask these volunteers to help with trips, fundraising events and occasional DIY jobs if needed.