Bexley Buddies Activity Host: Arts & Crafts

Bexley Buddies

Bexley Buddies are volunteer led social groups at local GP surgeries that bring patients together. We aim to tackle loneliness, create communities and improve residents’ wellbeing. Research told us social needs have spilled into primary care as around 1 in 5 GP appointments are taken up by non-medical needs. We believe cultivating peer support networks also means fostering community resilience.

We are now in an exciting expansion phase to start Bexley Buddies in more GP surgeries across the borough, including North Bexley (e.g. Belvedere, Erith, Crayford, Slade Green, etc.), Bexleyheath, Old Bexley, Welling, Sidcup, etc.

The Role

Would you be interested in volunteering for our Arts & Crafts sessions? It is perfect for someone who enjoys leading activities of your choice, such as knitting, crocheting, painting, collage, zine making, calligraphy or other activities you are happy to facilitate. Our groups meet in GP surgeries or community venues nearby. Most of our buddies are older adults aged 60+.

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Commitment

• We prioritise volunteers who could support us on a weekly or biweekly basis, but we are happy to discuss with you the best engagement model that works for both of us.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and tidy away the activity space
• Take attendance and help participants sign up for next sessions
• Plan the activities and motivate people of all experience levels to take part
• Collaborate with other volunteers to co-deliver the sessions if needed
• Share observations and reflections with project staff and shape the group together

What skills do I need?

• Strong interpersonal skills and willingness to engage with people from diverse backgrounds
• Activity facilitation
• Organisational skills to manage the logistics
• Empathy and patience
• Reliability and commitment
• Induction, shadowing, training on group facilitation and regular check-ins will be provided