Support & Community Advocacy Volunteer

About ACISS:

Our organisation is dedicated to educating, informing, connecting, and equipping African immigrants and people of African descent in Surrey and Sussex with the people and resources they need to foster a thriving community.

We believe that by fostering a sense of belonging and community, we can break down cultural divides and promote a harmonious and prosperous society for all.

Role Purpose:

To support our Founder during weekly sessions, helping to create a safe and welcoming environment for vulnerable individuals and families. The role involves providing practical support, community engagement, and signposting for people experiencing challenges such as poverty, homelessness, domestic abuse, social isolation, and refugee or asylum-related issues.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome and support community members attending the hub
• Assist with conversations and basic administrative tasks
• Provide empathetic listening and emotional support where appropriate
• Support advocacy work and signposting to external services
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately
• Assist the Founder with coordination, organisation and follow-up tasks
• Help maintain a calm, safe and inclusive environment
• Support individuals from diverse cultural and lived experiences
• Escalate safeguarding concerns in line with ACISS procedures
• Assist with refreshments, room setup and general session support as needed

What skills do I need?

Skills & Experience:

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The following would be desirable:

• Lived experience of migration, displacement, domestic abuse, housing insecurity or overcoming adversity
• Experience supporting vulnerable adults or community groups
• A good listener with strong interpersonal skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and trauma-informed practice
• Confidence communicating with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds
• Advocacy, mentoring or peer-support experience
• Knowledge of local support services and community resources
• Multilingual skills are highly valued