Mind in Bexley - Art Group Volunteer

The Art Group brings people in a safe space to create pieces of artwork. Participants currently bring their own projects. We help people new to the group to get started on something if needed.

As a volunteer, you will be helping Mind in Bexley to run the group. You will help support people to join in and feel part of the group. Volunteers with particular creative activities are welcome to share skills and expertise. We would like to develop activities moving forward. This role involves volunteering with Mind in Bexley staff and/or volunteers.

Specific tasks might vary from week to week but may include:

• Helping arrange furniture to make a welcoming space for the group

• Simple admin like recording the details of people attending

• Supporting a participant to try out a new art activity

• Joining in group activities, offer encouragement and contribute to making the group a positive experience for the people who come.

What skills do I need?

• Reliable

• Able to stay calm under pressure

• Able to recognise concerns about participants wellbeing or safety and alert the right people in a timely way • Basic understanding of mental ill health [or be willing to learn]

• Comfortable chatting and initiating conversation in a group

• Have an interest in art activities and supporting others to enjoy creating

• Able to follow instructions or Mind in Bexley policies - for example relating to confidentiality, safeguarding, health and safety, diversity and inclusion etc

• Able to cultivate a culture in the group that values diversity and different experience or perspective

• Willing and able to complete volunteer training prior to starting role [Support available if needed]

• Able to travel to a Bexleyheath location

• Able to provide an enhanced DBS check registered with the DBS Update service OR complete a new application [This process requires formal documents to prove your identity and address- please let us know if you think this could be a problem.]