LGBTQ+ Group Facilitator -Online

Mary Frances Trust is a Surrey-based charity supporting people with mental health and emotional wellbeing. We offer a variety of services to adults (16+) including wellbeing courses and advice, a range of activities and interest groups, peer support, self-help groups, individual support and volunteering opportunities. We engage volunteers from a variety of backgrounds to help us by assisting the staff team to deliver our work to clients that seek our support, across Mole Valley, Epsom & Ewell, Banstead and Elmbridge.

How you can help

Working closely with our other group facilitators, this role will complement the team helping deliver our monthly LGBTQ+ support group.  Currently operating online, this will be a rewarding role for someone seeking a regular opportunity to support and nurture those attending the group.   

This group provides a safe non-judgemental environment for people to talk about how they are feeling and the challenges they are dealing with. The meeting is quite flexible and only has a simple structure, which consists of: individual “check-ins”, support forum and “check-out”. 

In addition, we look for someone with experience in group delivery or individual work with clients, with good communication, listening and people skills, and the ability to get alongside others in a relaxed setting.    The volunteer role also includes a small amount of time either side of the group meeting to brief & debrief.  Due to the nature of our work, this role would suit someone wanting a more long-term involvement.  Some clients may have communication and confidence difficulties due to a number of health-related issues.  

What skills do I need?

Qualities that make a successful LGBTQ+ Group Facilitator

·         Identify as LGBTQ+ or have associated experience

·         Professional or work related experience

·         Ability to manage a group

·         Maintains personal & professional boundaries

·         Good interpersonal skills

·         Reliable, friendly, flexible, patient, empathetic, compassionate

·         Ability to ask for help (if you need to)

·         Ability to work as part of a small team

·         Passionate about supporting other people

·         has relevant associated experience

·         has an understanding of the issues the LGBTQ+ community is facing.