Academy Volunteer

Rentstart is a homelessness charity based in Walton on Thames and has been running for 20 years. Our aim is to connect with, house and then support people who are homeless or vulnerably housed. Each year we provide advice to around 400 people and go on to house and support circa 150 people (support is given for as long as each client requires it). Most of our clients cannot access private rented accommodation without our help, and many require support to move on with their lives. 

The academy offers sessions on money management, access to education, employment support, pre-tenancy support, tenancy maintenance, and wellbeing among other areas. This volunteer role is crucial to ensure we have enough team members to make this important support happen. 

As an Academy volunteer you will work alongside the support and outreach teams to carry out the vital work required to help people out of homelessness and to move on with their lives. Most of this work will take place at our building in Walton during our academy sessions. A basic disclosure and Barring service is required for this role. 

Tasks include:

• Chatting to clients and putting them at ease, helping to create a safe environment.
• Helping to determine clients specific needs and issues
• Cooking, cleaning and assisting with laundry, computer based help etc 
• Helping clients with employment based tasks, such as writing a CV and applying for jobs online
• Delivering sessions based on your skills or alongside our staff.

What skills do I need?

Useful skills include:

• Empathy and the ability to connect with people who are vulnerable
• Basic kitchen and cooking skills
• Good communication and listening skills
• Good computer skills.
• Ability to use your own initiative.

All volunteers will receive initial training and Academy volunteers will also receive relevant training to support clients one on one, in small groups or delivering larger classes.