Community Insight Volunteer

About the Role

Every community has stories that deserve to be heard.

Voluntary Action Surrey East and Central Surrey Voluntary Action are looking for a Community Insight Volunteer for  East Surrey Community Insight Partnership (ESCIP), which brings together local voluntary organisations, communities and partners to understand better the experiences, strengths and challenges facing people across East Surrey.

Community Insight Volunteer help make sure those voices are heard. Whether you’re chatting to people at a local event, attending a community meeting or listening to what matters most to residents, you’ll help us gather valuable insight that can influence local decision-making and improve services.

You don’t need to be an expert. We’re looking for people who are curious, compassionate, interesting in voluntary and community sector and enjoy talking to others.

What You’ll Do

You may:

• Attend community events, meetings and engagement activities across East Surrey.
• Listen to residents, volunteers and community groups and record what matters to them.
• Capture examples of community strengths, local challenges and ideas for improvement.
• Help gather feedback through conversations, surveys or focus groups.
• Share community stories and examples of positive local action.
• Submit information using simple templates provided by ESCIN.
• Help us ensure a wide range of communities and voices are represented.
• Follow guidance on confidentiality, safeguarding and data protection.

No two volunteering sessions will be exactly the same, making this a varied and rewarding role.

What You’ll Gain

As an ESCIP volunteer you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Make a genuine difference to local communities.
• Learn about community engagement and public services.
• Develop communication and listening skills.
• Gain experience in community research and engagement.
• Meet new people and build local connections.
• Receive training, ongoing support and volunteer recognition.

Time Commitment

Flexible.

Most volunteers contribute around 4 to 8 hours each month, with opportunities to become involved in additional activities if you wish. Based in our Dorking or Oxted office, with travel across East Surrey.

Support

You’ll receive:

• A full volunteer induction.
• Community engagement training.
• Safeguarding and GDPR awareness.
• Regular support from the ESCIN Coordinator.
• Opportunities to learn alongside other volunteers.

Together we can ensure community voices help shape the future of East Surrey.

What skills do I need?

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need previous experience. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds.

You’ll enjoy this role if you are:

• Friendly and approachable.
• A good listener.
• Curious about your local community.
• Respectful of different experiences and perspectives.
• Reliable and organised.
• Comfortable using basic digital tools such as email or online forms (training provided).