VOLUNTEER FOR US
Our volunteer dance buddies are important members of our team. They help people with learning, communication or physical disabilities and mobility issues, to enjoy taking part in dance activities. They help us to make our sessions safe and inclusive. Without our volunteers we would not be able to make our dance sessions fun and welcoming for everyone.
Anyone who enjoys working with people can be a dance buddy. You do not need to be a dancer, but you will need to feel comfortable moving and joining in, without being self-conscious. You will also need to be comfortable about safe and sensitive touch, such as holding hands to help participants to take part in the dance session, or to support communication. You will be able to choose which sessions you support, and state how regularly you are able to volunteer.
Please contact us if you are interested in volunteering as a dance buddy.
These are the kinds of tasks we will ask you to take part in:
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Welcoming participants and their support workers
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Registering participant names, taking payment and writing name labels
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Chatting to participants to ensure they feel welcome and part of the group
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Listening and responding to the instructions of the dance facilitator, and interpreting them for participants if necessary
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Joining in the dance activities, to help others to take part and to act as a positive role model
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Partnering participants to support them to take part in the activities
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Being aware of how the participants are responding
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Contributing to evaluation and monitoring discussions
Please note that all dance buddies will be required to have a DBS check [which we will pay for] unless you are registered with the update service
Our volunteer trustees meet at least four times a year to discuss and agree our charitable activities and to agree finances. Small working parties also work on strategic development, policy development and fundraising. Trustees are recruited according to specific skills and knowledge that are required for the safe and efficient running of the charity.
Contact us if you are interested in becoming a trustee.
WHAT OUR VOLUNTEERS SAY...
‘"I wanted a volunteering opportunity where I could have an immediate impact and see the people that I was helping. Dance Hastings fulfilled that criteria admirably.
I love being with everybody – have got used to their quirks and they have got used to mine.
The participants love coming – they say it all the time, and I love helping. It gives me a buzz for the rest of the day.
It is joyful every week and very humbling to know that I can make a difference. Many of them didn’t get out much before but we are one big happy family! And Philippa is an inspiration, so kind and thoughtful and fun fun fun!’
LESLEY, VOLUNTEER