Thursday Afternoon Volunteer Studio Facilitator at Mental Health Art Charity (ARTSPACE BRIGHTON) at Artspace Brighton

What does the opportunity involve doing?

We are looking for a volunteer facilitator to join our team to help run our art studio. We run a safe space for members who have lived experiences of mental health, and who have an interest in exploring their creativity or developing their art practice, while helping to boost their confidence, connect with others, and to feel generally more empowered. Volunteers encourage our members to be creative in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Some members join in order to continue their art practice, others have little art experience, and join in order to learn artistic skills. Others join to avoid feeling isolated. As such we are flexible to members needs.

The Studio is located behind the Royal Sussex Hospital on the Bristol Estate. It is easily accessible by bus or car.

We are looking for one facilitator for Thursday afternoon starting at 1pm and finishing at 5pm as a weekly commitment. You will be working alongside the Thursday afternoon facilitator, who will initially guide and train you through your induction and trial period. You will always work with one other volunteer in the afternoon.

This role would suite someone primarily who is friendly, patient, who can empathise, encourage, listen to and respond to our members, respect confidentiality, and who has some knowledge of boundaries and safeguarding. Knowledge of art materials/ practices, and being able to provide guidance or skills on art and craft techniques would also be of benefit but not essential.

What induction, training and support is offered?

A full induction, and introduction to the organisation, would be given. We offer 1:1 support, plus also have regular volunteers meetings where you can also raise any issues.

What skills or qualities are needed?

• A commitment to the organisation's aims, objectives, mission and values.
• Experience of volunteering or working in a role that required you to support people with respect, patience, and empathy. Some knowledge or personal experience of mental health recovery.
• The ability to actively listen to people and respond sensitively and appropriately.
• Being trustworthy, and an awareness of the importance of keeping client confidentiality, safeguarding and appropriate role boundaries.
• An interest in the arts and / or crafts
• Excellent reflective skills, and the ability to work as part of a team, supporting and respecting the contributions of other volunteers and people using Artspace services.
• Excellent communication skills and a willingness to share knowledge, skills and experience with studio members and volunteers

• Other desirable Skills (but not essential to the role):
1. Prior experience or training in supporting adults with mental health issues
2. Experience of facilitating workshops, working in mental health, or teaching classes
4. A recognised qualification and/or substantial relevant experience in mental health (art therapy/social work/counselling etc).