Canine Partners – Reception Support Volunteer

Canine Partners is a registered charity that transforms the lives of people with physical disabilities by partnering them with assistance dogs. Our amazing dogs bring a greater independence and quality of life to their partners, offering support, security, companionship, and practical help with everyday household tasks.

We are looking for warm and friendly volunteers at our Midlands centre to welcome all visitors to the site and provide a helpful reception service. To provide support in our busy office, to handle calls and emails, and provide assistance with long-term projects. We have opportunities, Monday – Friday, 9.00 – 5.00pm which can fit around your free time and personal commitments

By volunteering you will:

• Be a valued member of our charity
• Be able to meet like-minded people
• Have an opportunity to take on a rewarding new opportunity
• Help us to continue our life-transforming work. Volunteers are an invaluable part of our team.

‘Without the continued hard work and support from our volunteers, we would not
be able to provide our clients with our life changing dogs’

Provide a friendly and efficient service to all visitors

• Provide refreshments to visitors o Answer calls calmly and professionally o Forward details of message to the appropriate person o General administration tasks as and when required o Assist with long term projects
• Ensure the reception area is welcoming and tidy
• Deal with sensitive information and uphold confidentiality and sensitivity at all times.
• An opportunity to talk to potential supporters about our work

What we require from you

• You live within a reasonable distance of our training centre in order to commute weekly (postcode LE12 9SR)
• Have a means of transport to get to and from the centre o Minimum age of 18
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Good organisational and IT skills (word, email and internet) o Honesty, reliability, enthusiasm and positive outlook o Reliability and punctuality
• Self-motivated with the ability to complete routine and non-routine tasks as required
• Friendly and outgoing with the ability to work on your own, and within the team
• Able to work in an environment with dogs

Support & Training

• Induction process which includes submitting of information form, reference, shadowing and training opportunities
• We provide in house support and training which includes completion GDPR online module
• Reimbursement of pre-approved expenses if requested
• Invitation to join our Official Canine Partners Community Facebook Group
• A point of contact who will support you in your role
• Refresher training may be required to keep up to date with best practice and policies and procedures
• Volunteer clothing and ID badge