Volunteering Opportunities 2008

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The Mitchemp Trust is a small charity that provides an adventure development programme for vulnerable young people aged 11 to 14 years old from the Wiltshire area. The children are referred to us through their schools, youth groups or Social Services, as it is felt they would benefit from the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities, try something new, learn about working as a team, and develop communication and social skills. The children are nominated for a range of reasons but the common factor is that they would benefit from the chance to build their self esteem and confidence. Young people participate in our New Start Adventure Programme by attending the Junior Access camp in Wales when they are 11/12 years old, followed by two weekend courses in the autumn and spring, then our Senior Challenge camp in Scotland the following summer.

  

"the training weekend - blindfold challenge"

We are looking for volunteers to help on the adventure camps in the summer 2008. Volunteers work with a group of up to 12 young people alongside two volunteering colleagues and an activity instructor. They are involved in ensuring the welfare and organisation of the young people, and also participate in the activities alongside them. An outdoor instructor is responsible for all aspects of running the activities.


"Volunteers manage the senior camp"

A training and familiarisation weekend is being held in the Brecon Beacons, at the Outdoor Education Centre we use for our Junior Access Camp, on 13th - 15th June 2008. This is a chance to meet other volunteers, including those who have done it before, and also undertake training sessions in the principals of outdoor education, behaviour management, child protection, risk assessment and health and safety.

The dates for next summer's camps are;

  • Senior Camp 1 (Scotland) - Saturday 26th July to Saturday 2nd August
  • Senior Camp 2 (Scotland) - Saturday 23rd August to Saturday 30th August
  • Junior Camp 1 (Wales) - Friday 8th August to Wednesday 13th August
  • Junior Camp 2 (Wales) - Friday 15th August to Wednesday 20th August

Volunteers come from a whole range of backgrounds, ages and experience. Some have previously worked with young people or are interested in getting involved in this type of work; others have enjoyed camps, adventure trips and outdoor pursuits themselves and would like to give vulnerable young people this same experience. Some people are just interested in doing something valuable with their time. Previous experience is beneficial but isn't essential. Volunteering can be challenging, but is also a very rewarding experience; volunteers often report their surprise at just how much they personally get out of it.

All volunteers must undertake an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check as they will be working with vulnerable young people. Applicants will also be required to provide details of two referees.

For more information please contact:

Tessa Woodrow
Tel: 07813 771551
tessa­ at ­mitchemptrust.org.uk

or download an application form from our Publications Section.

"I have personally found it challenging, but in so many ways, one of the most rewarding things I have ever taken part in. I will look back with a sense of pride and achievement" - James Thompson, Volunteer

The Volunteer Training Programme is supported by Awards for All.


  Registered Charity Number 1019493