Organisations - Volunteering Kingston

August 12, 2024August 12, 2024

Organisation Spotlight: Climate Ed

This week’s organisation spotlight is on Climate Ed, a charity offering education to kids about climate science, carbon literacy and climate action!

Hello, please could you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about Climate Ed?

Hello, my name is Ben and I co-founded Climate Ed in 2018! Before that, I worked as a history teacher, and had a background in history and education. I was interested in climate change and I felt more needed to be done about educating people about it. So, I left my job and set up Climate Ed with a friend! We started visiting local schools, giving presentations and workshops about climate change.

Through a long process of trial and error we designed a climate action programme. We then began recruiting volunteers to deliver it. Since then, we’ve been sending out volunteers across London – we’ve worked with over 200 schools, 10,000 students and nearly 250 volunteers! We’re also very excited to be launching in Oxford and Birmingham soon.

Our action program looks at three thematic areas – travel, food and general consumption – clothes, what we buy, for instance. Usually we work with years 5 and 6. We aim to get students carbon literate, give them an understanding of the climate impact so that hopefully they can go away and share that knowledge with their family

Could you tell us a little more about the project? How might a volunteering session go at Climate Ed?

Our program includes five workshops, each running for an hour. These are designed to support

students in their learning, through a range of activities. We might begin with a volunteer, giving a presentation talking through slides.Then students will watch a video, answering a question sheet based on it. Then follows group activities, including drama and role play activities. We designed this to be varied, stimulating and importantly fun. Climate Change can be depressing and alarming, but we try to focus on the solutions for it.

What can volunteers learn by volunteering with Climate Ed?

A huge amount. We do look out for people with expertise in climate change – so the more subject knowledge you have, the better. But because it’s quite a challenging volunteering role, our volunteers learn a lot from this – however much knowledge they have on the subject. We’ve had people with PHds on climate change deliver the program who find it stretches their knowledge! Working with children also challenges people’s teaching skills.

Above all, volunteers find passing on their knowledge to the next generation really rewarding. The kids also really appreciate that people are volunteering out of their own free time. Most of our volunteers are doing this because they care about climate change. Quite a few volunteers are interested in building experience in the sector and this is a great place to do that.

Any funny stories?

Children being children they ask extraordinary questions, so we keep track of the craziest questions they ask. Here are a selection…

“Will the world get taken over by giant insects?”

“If the world gets flooded will we have to evolve to fish to swim?”

“If the world gets hotter will we have to spend all our money on sun cream?”

“Is there one person in the world who controls the climate?”

Thank you so much to Ben from Climate Ed for your time! Interested in teaching the next generation to take a stand against climate change? Become a volunteer for Climate Ed here! Want to find out more? Check out their website, Facebook page, X (formerly twitter) and Instagram.

Not sure where to begin with your volunteering journey? Check out our resources page here.

July 29, 2024July 29, 2024

Organisation Spotlight: Beyond Blocks, and how Lego Robotics can make STEM Accessible

Today’s organisation spotlight is on Beyond Blocks, which aims to introduce children to programming and engineering through a medium they’re familiar with – Lego. Beyond Blocks packs problem solving, communication and presentation skills into fun and immersive ninety minute sessions delivered after school. In this interview, its founder and lead teacher, Andy Hoang, takes us through Lego Robotics, Beyond Blocks’ mission, and how Lego can play a part in making STEM education more accessible.

Hello! Please could you introduce yourself, and tell us a little about Beyond Blocks?

I’m Andy Hoang, I set up beyond blocks over 3 years ago to build beyond Lego instructions. I wanted kids to get more out of buying Lego – instead of just only building the model, following the instructions and then just buying another Lego model.

Beyond Blocks focuses on building great people through Lego, and the bulk of our work is in Lego Robotics, teaching children how to program through Lego. This builds up teamwork, communication, resilience and listening skills. Beyond Blocks is about building character through complex challenges – programming is hard, you’re going to fail over and over and over again. It’s about knowing that if there’s a problem it can be broken down, recognising patterns and getting children to pull up their socks and know they aren’t going to give up immediately.

Lego gives children permission to solve problems on their own. Because kids are so used to putting bricks on top of each other, when you bring that into the classroom, you’re teaching children with a medium that they know and love.

Could you tell us a little more about Lego Robotics? How would a Lego Robotics Club session usually go?

Usually in a Beyond Blocks session, children will be paired up and build a model based on the same instructions. We’ll then teach them how to bring that model alive through programming. Children need to work out the steps to have a model come alive – for instance they’ll need to figure out when a motor needs to turn on, which way it goes and why.

Our groups work with the same instructions, but each pair considers a series of increasingly difficult problems to solve. Because these are Lego models, each pair will end up with a completely unique model. They might add different functions to their model or add decorations. Because these children have made these changes, they take ownership of the project because they’ve spent ages building this thing.

By the end of the session, each pair will present their model to the group – encouraging presentation skills and improving their self-confidence.

What can volunteers learn by becoming a Lego Robotics Club Leader?

Beyond Blocks’ mission is that we build great people using Lego, and this doesn’t just apply to the kids. It’s the staff, it’s the parents and the teachers. Beyond Blocks volunteers are trained up in the technical aspects of programming and running a Lego robotics class.

The position of Lego Robotics Volunteer is about supporting libraries to deliver Lego Robotics clubs for free. I’m looking for potential volunteers who want to make a difference with regard to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education in their communities.

There is a need for quality STEM education for parts of society – especially those who might not have access to Lego kits. In other countries people have the chance to be at the forefront of a revolution of education in the form of Lego Robotics.

I’d like volunteers to see how much of an impact Lego robotics can have on children. I hope potential Beyond Blocks volunteers will gain skills to get into education as a career. I’d also like to move them to paid work – we’ve got a lot of demand for teachers in Beyond Blocks.

I also do a lot of volunteering for the Institute of Engineering and Technology – they’re keen to see more Lego Robotics Clubs in London. We want engineering education out to the masses – and I want it here in Kingston, on my doorstep. Lots of libraries here want to see more Lego Robotics Clubs too, but they just don’t have the volunteers.

Finally, any funny stories from previous Lego Robotics Clubs?

Last year I was called up by Lego to be on their 90th anniversary billboard. They were asking for 90 Lego fans, so I asked around the Robotics Clubs I was running. I and some of the Lego Robotics club members had our photo taken by Rankin.

The funniest bit was that the photo came out the day before it was supposed to. The day before the photo came out, one of the students photographed, Clara, was at the Science Museum at South Kensington on a school trip. The class noticed all the photographs of Lego fans and recognised Clara – and she became their superstar for the day!

Lego 90th Anniversary Poster, featuring Andy and Lego Robotics Club Members! Photograph by Beyond Blocks.

Beyond Blocks is currently looking for volunteers to deliver free Lego Robotics Club Session in Kingston Libraries. Want to help make STEM Education more exciting and accessible to kids? Become a volunteer and apply here.

Are you interested in learning about Lego Robotics and Beyond Blocks? Check out their website here, or follow them on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram!

May 21, 2024June 11, 2024

Organisation Spotlight: Home-Start UK

Happy May! Today’s organisation spotlight is on Home-Start, an organisation that connects volunteers with young families to prevent crisis.

Home-Start Logo

Tell us a little about Home-Start:

“Home-Start is a voluntary organisation in which volunteers offer regular support, friendship and practical help to young families under stress remotely or in their own homes helping to prevent family crisis or breakdown. Volunteers, who are parents or have parenting experience themselves, understand that sometimes family life can be tough and that is why their support can be so valuable in helping another family. Volunteers are central to the Home-Start service; we could not offer families the same support without them. We welcome people from all faiths and backgrounds to apply. Volunteers would be based in a family home in one of our boroughs (Richmond, Kingston or Hounslow)”

Why do you want to involve volunteers in your organisation?

“Home-Start is there to help families through their most challenging times by putting a trained volunteer on the doorstep of every family that needs them. By supporting parents and carers, we empower them, building confidence and resilience so that children can thrive”

What volunteer role/s do you have available at Home-Start?

“Home-Start House Visiting Volunteers aim to build the confidence and independence of the family by:

• Offering support, friendship and practical help

• Committing to a minimum of 1-2 hours per week for remote support or 2-3 hours per week home-visiting according to the family’s needs

• Visiting the families in their own homes, where the dignity and identity of each individual can be respected and protected

• Reassuring families that difficulties in bringing up children are not unusual

• Emphasising the positive aspects of family life

• Developing a relationship with the family providing a regular, reliable presence in that family

• Drawing on their own experience of parenting to encourage parents’ strengths and emotional well-being for the ultimate benefit of their own children

• Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships and to use effectively the support and services available in the community”

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for Home-Start?

Just two hours of your week will make such a difference to a family. If you are compassionate, kind, committed and have parenting experience you could be our next Home Visiting Volunteer at Home-Start – Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow.

Interested in volunteering with Home-Start? Send them an email at info@home-start.org.uk or a message at 0116 464 5490.

Discover volunteering roles with organisations like Home-Start here. If you’re with an organisation and would like to get in touch, find Volunteering Kingston’s contact details here.

March 8, 2024March 8, 2024

Organisation Spotlight: Learn English At Home

Organisation: Learn English at Home (LEAH)

Tell us a little about your organisation:

LEAH recently celebrated its 40th anniversary of supporting adults with their English language skills. We are based in Kingston but support students in both Hounslow and Richmond as well. We offer both 1:1 lessons and classes to support people who often can’t access college courses to improve their English. We aim to facilitate language proficiency and foster integration within the local community.

Why are volunteers valuable to your organisation?

With a dedicated team of approximately 100 volunteers, LEAH welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about education and community engagement. Whether you’re considering a career in teaching, looking to gain experience, or simply wanting to make a positive impact in your community, LEAH offers a fulfilling volunteering opportunity for you. Many of our tutors, like our students, embarked on their English language journey later in life, enriching their understanding and empathy.

What volunteer role/s do you have available?

We are looking for volunteers who could offer an hour a week to help someone improve their English. No prior teaching experience is necessary as we provide full training (six weekly sessions run online). We actively encourage individuals whose first language is not English to apply.

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for your organisation?

Don’t worry if you haven’t taught before! LEAH offers thorough training and ongoing support every step of the way. Your willingness to contribute and make a difference is what matters most.

February 19, 2024February 19, 2024

Organisation Spotlight: Enhanceable

Organisation: Enhanceable

Tell us a little about your organisation:

EnhanceAble is a longstanding charity dedicated to providing exceptional social care and support services for children, adults, and young people with disabilities. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, we operate various programmes including an Adult Day Centre in Kingston, the renowned CLICK Cafe also in Kingston, After-School Clubs in Kingston, a Children’s Respite House in Chessington, an Adult Respite House in Epsom, and a Living Service offering outreach support in local boroughs.

Why are volunteers valuable to your organisation?

Volunteers play a pivotal role in the smooth operation of our services, particularly in our CLICK Cafe, where they provide invaluable assistance. Additionally, volunteers enhance our After-School Clubs and other programmes, offering crucial support. We welcome volunteers aged 16 and above, including individuals with additional needs or disabilities, providing enriching experiences and meaningful roles within our organisation.

What volunteer role/s do you have available?

CLICK Cafe Volunteer: Assist with baking, cooking, serving teas/coffees, taking orders, and engaging with customers. Many of our CLICK Cafe volunteers have additional needs, and it is a great way to develop skills and confidence while making new friends and meeting new people. (Monday-Friday, 2pm-6pm, flexible scheduling available)

After-School Clubs Volunteer: Join us during term-time on Mondays (4pm-6pm), Tuesdays (4pm-6pm or 6pm-8pm) to support children with disabilities in various activities such as games, sports, and arts and crafts. It’s a rewarding opportunity to interact with children and make a positive impact in their lives.

Day Centre Volunteer: Assist adult service users in a range of activities including music groups, arts and crafts, bowling, karaoke, and more. Volunteers may also help with serving refreshments and maintaining cleanliness during sessions. Flexible scheduling available Monday to Friday, between 8:30am-4:30pm.

For more information or to express interest in volunteering, please reach out to:

Thea Shephard at thea.shephard@enhanceable.org
Leanne Johns for After-School Clubs volunteering at leanne.johns@enhanceable.org
Philippa Garriques for CLICK Cafe volunteering at philippa.garriques@enhanceable.org.

November 9, 2023November 10, 2023

Organisation Spotlight: Save the World Club (Trustees Week Edition)

trustees week. save the world club. kingston

To celebrate Trustees Week (6-10 November) we are highlighting the valuable role that Trustee Volunteers play in the volunteering sector.

Organisation: Save The World Club

Name: Hugh Williams

Tell us a little about your organisation:

Save The World Club’s mission is to encourage positive environmental action and self-empowerment. We achieve this through our three main pillars: Food re-distribution, circulation of second-hand goods, and the mosaic murals all over the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames that we’ve made in conjunction with local artists and the community.

The charity was originally founded in 1986 by Des Kay, who is still a Director/Trustee/Volunteer to this day. We are based in a warehouse we like to call “The Circulatory”, a building whose purpose is to promote a more circular economy to prevent wasting resources and improve the environmental impact of the things we use at the end of their lives.

Why are Trustee Volunteers valuable to your organisation?

Trustee Volunteers are important to our organisation as they play an important role in both, deciding what direction would be most suitable to achieve the charity’s goals, and also as direct leadership on the ground for those who want to help but need to know where to start.

What does the Trustee Volunteer role involve?

The role of Trustee Volunteer with Save The World Club is a varied one.

At its least involved, it could be as little as helping decide high-level planning and direction for the charity and taking part in board meetings once every two weeks for around 2 hours. On the more involved side, it could be to support the direction and needs of one of our teams from finance, HR, administration, food provision & collection, or even outreach. The more involved could be as much as 6-8 hours a day 5-6 days a week.

Training for a Trustee Volunteer is as diverse as the role you chose to take charge of. Taking into account where you’d like to be, and what training that entails, is just as much a part of being a Trustee/Director/Volunteer with us as the training we think you need to do your role well.

What skills or experience are needed to become a Trustee Volunteer?

Patience, an open mind, the ability to step back where needed, and the confidence to step up when something is wrong. While all of these are desirable, a mindset open to learning/developing active and caring leadership to build a better space for everyone is a must.

Do you have any Trustee Volunteer role vacancies currently?

Yes!

We are open to interest in almost any area for our Director/Trustee volunteer opportunities, with a particular interest in becoming a treasurer. While we do have a fundraiser and grants Director/Trustee Volunteer, the applications leave them little time to compile accounts for our financial reflection.

Contact Tariq Shabbeer (Director/Trustee – Secretary General) [Tariq@savetheworldclub.org] or Hugh Williams (CEO) [Hugh@savetheworldclub.org].

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for your organisation?

Our roles are very flexible and so long as you have a good mindset, the roles can be both incredibly rewarding and equip you with valuable skills. You get to support vulnerable and local people while also saving both your wallet and the planet together with a fantastic team.

November 9, 2023November 10, 2023

Unveiling Hidden Heroes: Changing Perceptions and Celebrating Trustees

Welcome to our blog, shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes of change – trustees.

These incredible individuals are the heart and soul of nonprofits, guiding the ship toward meaningful impact. Trustees play a vital role, not just in boardrooms but in the very fabric of society, fostering transparency, innovation, and accountability.

As we celebrate Trustees Week (6-10 November), let’s explore the immense value these volunteers bring to our communities. Traditionally, there’s been a reluctance to put a price on freely offered commitment, especially at the trustee level. But times are changing, and the tide is turning.

Ever wonder why the incredible economic contribution of volunteering is often overlooked? Well, so have we. Enter a recent game-changing study by Works4U, led by the insightful Dominic Pinkney, titled “Monetary Value of Charity Trustees.” Brace yourselves—it’s a real eye-opener!

Starting with Sherry Anderson’s wisdom that “volunteers don’t get paid, not because they are worthless but because they are priceless,” the report unveils the true economic magnitude of volunteering in England and Wales—£324 billion, a staggering 14.7% of the UK’s GDP. Let that sink in. To put it in perspective, that surpasses the NHS budget for 21/22 (£190 billion). And the good news doesn’t stop there.

Drilling down into the world of trustees, the report reveals their value at £33.17 billion, equivalent to 1.7% of GDP. Think about it—more than the total value of manufacturing in 2022 (£31 billion)! With the average number of trustees per organisation being 6, these figures are awe-inspiring.

But what does this all mean? It means change is on the horizon. The report not only advocates for recognising the economic value of volunteering but suggests a dedicated government department for the entire Voluntary Sector. A world where Trustee roles are championed on the same scale as business, sports, and culture. While we might not see it overnight, a shift in attitude toward the sector is certainly on the cards.

Excited to join this movement? The good news is that new trustees are always in demand. If you want to join this impactful journey, become a volunteer or a volunteer involving organisation (VIO). Volunteering Kingston is ready to help you maximise the value of your contribution.

November 8, 2023November 9, 2023

Paralympian becomes Chair of Trustees at Kingston Association for Blind

In this illuminating case study, we delve into the remarkable journey of Roy Frank Smith MBE, a dedicated individual committed to supporting visually impaired communities.

As the Chair of Trustees for the Kingston Association for the Blind (KAB), Roy’s story is one of inspiration and selflessness. With a rich history in sports, including participation in the Paralympics and an MBE for his contributions to Disabled Sport, Roy’s transition from competitive sports to community service is a testament to his unwavering passion for making a difference.

As we celebrate Trustees’ Week (6-10 November 2023), join us as we explore Roy’s role, responsibilities, and impactful achievements, including empowering visually impaired individuals to get involved in sport.

Volunteer: Roy Frank Smith MBE

Role: Chair of Trustees

Organisation: Kingston Association for the Blind (KAB)

Tell us a little about yourself:

I live in New Malden, now retired, but I have been volunteering for various sight loss charities for the last 50 years. I took part in the Paralympics and have been involved in both the summer and winter Olympics. I have run Marathons and Half Marathons to raise money for the sight loss sector. I received the MBE from the Queen in 1991 for services to Disabled Sport, and I had the privilege of being a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics.

What inspired you to become a Trustee?

I had so much fun taking part in sport as an individual and in teams, I wanted hundreds more people in London and Nationwide to be able to have the same amount of fun. The rewards from watching visually impaired people of all ages enjoying a wide range of activities are immense. I have been involved as the chair of British Blind Sport and Chair of Metro Blind Sport and Social Club for the visually impaired for over 30 years. Over thousands of individuals have befitted from the clubs I have been involved in. My passion, in the long run, is to see the fun blind children have running, jumping and throwing and all blind and partially sighted people of all ages enjoying a wide range of activities.

How did you find out about the volunteering role?

When I stopped competing nationally and internationally, I looked at how I could support local visually impaired charities. I contacted the Royal Borough of Kingston who put me in touch with KAB. In June 2023 I became the Chair of Trustees therefore passing on some of my administration and fundraising skills including networking and coaching contacts.

Tell us about your Trustee role.

My role is to coordinate with the CEO and other trustee members, meet with new members and volunteers and provide essential awareness training, especially for members with recent sight loss. To ensure that we have enough funds to support the activities we provide and try and increase our income so we can increase our services and activities to over 4,000 people living with sight loss in this borough. All information is sent out in the format of the members’ choice e.g. large print, audio, talking newspapers and accessible website.

Please, tell us about your most memorable experience as a Trustee volunteer.

Organising one-to-one swimming lessons for blind and partially sighted people who cannot swim. Finding the funds from Sport England and Royal Borough of Kingston to book training pools and one-to-one coaching has been enormously rewarding. It has fulfilled so many members’ dreams of swimming for the first time. We have also inspired members who have lost their sight later in life to regain their confidence to go back into the pool with one-to-one coaching with separate lanes in the pool, thus avoiding the fear of collisions and people jumping into roped-off areas.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Trustee?

Sit in at a few meetings first, go along to some activities, meet the members, check out our newsletters and see what a difference you can make to the visually impaired community.

Can you sum up your experience in three words?

Life changing experience

If you have been inspired by Roy’s experience, consider becoming a trustee with Kingston Association for the Blind or check out other opportunities in Kingston and become a volunteer today.

September 26, 2023September 28, 2023

Spotlight: Kingston Buddy Scheme

What does your organisation do?

The Kingston Buddy Scheme is a befriending project which matches volunteers with a buddy who has learning disabilities or autism. The scheme has been running for over 20 years and has been a positive experience for many dozens of service users and volunteers alike. Great, lasting friendships have been formed.

Why do you want to involve volunteers in your organisation?

Volunteers who can spare a few hours a month to meet their buddy are the lifeblood of our scheme – we cannot function without our volunteers and we are hugely appreciative of everything they do and bring to our scheme.

What volunteer role/s do you have available?

We need volunteer befrienders who can spare a few hours a month to take their buddy out to leisure activities which they might otherwise not be able to attend. We provide full training for our volunteers and we reimburse their expenses.

Find out more and apply here!

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for your organisation?

Do it! Our scheme is so rewarding for our volunteers. You will make a huge difference to your buddy’s life and you will gain great life experiences along the way.

September 26, 2023September 28, 2023

Spotlight: Volunteering with Dyscover

Thinking about volunteering in Kingston? Find out more about local organisations and their volunteering opportunities with our Spotlight series!

What does your organisation do in Kingston?

For almost 30 years, Dyscover has been providing long term support and opportunity to people with aphasia and their families. Aphasia is a neurological condition, acquired through stroke, brain injury or a rare form of dementia and is very isolating and frustrating. Aphasia affects a person’s communication, including their ability to find words, construct sentences and understand language, both written and spoken.

We work to inform, support, and empower people with aphasia to manage their communication disability and to re-engage with life. We create an aphasia friendly environment in which people feel included, valued, and have a sense of purpose.

Daily sessions are led by professional speech and language therapists, supported by a team of volunteers, and designed to help people adjust to living with aphasia. We help our members to develop strategies for communicating, maximise abilities and provide help and support for partners, carers, and other family members.

Why do you want to involve volunteers in your organisation?

Volunteers are an integral part of Dyscover, making up 80% of our team and we could not provide our crucial services without their support.

What volunteer role/s do you have available?

We are looking for new volunteers to join the team at our Kingston group. Volunteers support our members (who have aphasia) in a structured and therapeutic conversation group with Speech and Language Therapists. The group is designed to help our members adjust to life with aphasia, develop different communication strategies and regain confidence.

Who are you looking for?

We look for friendly, positive individuals keen to learn about aphasia and want to make a real difference to our members. No previous experience of working with people with disabilities is needed as full training and ongoing support are provided.

When & where?

Kingston Quaker Centre on Tuesdays at 9.30am-12.30 (term time only)

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for your organisation?

If you are considering volunteering with Dyscover, you can chat with our Volunteer Coordinator and arrange to go along and see the group in action which is the best way to learn more about what we do and how our volunteers support our members. We are a very friendly and welcoming team. Our volunteers tell us that it is a hugely rewarding role and that they really get so much from volunteering with us.

Find out more and apply for this role!