Reception Volunteer at Possability People

Possability People is a disability charity based in Brighton & Hove, with services across the city and into East and West Sussex. We support disabled people to live independently, have choice and control over their lives, and challenge the barriers that prevent equality and inclusion.

We are a user-led organisation, meaning disabled people are at the heart of our work and help shape the services we provide. We support people with a wide range of experiences, including people living with long-term health conditions, mental health conditions, neurodivergence and age-related impairments. We recognise that disability intersects with all aspects of people’s lives and work to build a more inclusive society.

We are proud that over 75% of our staff and volunteers have lived experience of disability. However, you do not need to be disabled to join us — we welcome anyone who shares our values and wants to help create a more equal and accessible world.

What does the opportunity involve doing?

Reception volunteers provide a welcoming and accessible first point of contact for everyone who visits or contacts Possability People. You will help create a friendly and inclusive environment for disabled people, their families, friends and carers, as well as volunteers, staff, partners and members of the public.

The role involves welcoming visitors, answering telephone calls, responding to general enquiries and helping people access the right information or support. You may help with appointments, signposting enquiries to the appropriate team, taking messages and ensuring information is passed on accurately.

Reception volunteers also support the smooth running of our office by carrying out general administrative tasks such as handling incoming and outgoing post, updating records, scanning documents, preparing information and supporting colleagues with day-to-day tasks.

The role involves meeting a wide range of people and being a friendly, approachable presence within our Head Office. You will play an important part in helping people feel comfortable, included and confident when engaging with Possability People

What induction, training and support is offered?

Before starting in the role, you will receive an induction to Possability People, our values, services and ways of working. You will also receive training specific to the reception role, including our systems, processes and how to support visitors, callers and enquiries.

You will receive ongoing support from your volunteer lead and the wider team, including guidance, supervision and opportunities to ask questions as you build your confidence. You will be supported to learn about our services and how to direct people to the right source of information and support.

Volunteers also have access to a range of free training opportunities, including disability equality, confidence building, computer skills and customer service.

What skills or qualities are needed?

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly, welcoming and approachable, with a willingness to help others
• Comfortable speaking with a wide range of people, including disabled people, families, carers, volunteers and professionals
• Good listeners who can communicate clearly and sensitively
• Patient, respectful and non-judgemental when supporting people with different needs and experiences
• Reliable and able to make a regular commitment
• Organised and able to manage different tasks while staying calm and focused
• Comfortable using basic computer systems, including email and Microsoft Office (training can be provided)
• Able to take accurate messages and share information appropriately
• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with care
• Able to work independently while also being part of a wider team
• Interested in supporting disabled people and helping to create an accessible and inclusive environment

You do not need previous reception experience — we are looking for someone with the right attitude, who enjoys meeting people and wants to help make Possability People a welcoming place for everyone.

More info
Date added

30th November 2020

Organisation

Possability People

Location

Montague House
Montague Place
Brighton

Deadline for applications

16 Oct 2027

Categories

Carers Children/families Community and social centres Disabled people Older people Other groups People with health problems People with mental health problems

Activities

Administration/finance/fundraising Other activities Research/media/campaigning Volunteering as part of a team Volunteering with computers

Disabled access?

Yes

Expenses paid?

Yes

Childcare available?

No

Contact name

Emily Keller

Phone number

01273894040

More info »

https://www.possabilitypeople.org.uk/support-us/volunteer2/