Doorstep Library Reading Volunteers visit the same families online over Zoom, every week to share the magic of reading and the joy of books.
Our volunteers don’t just read stories though; they do silly voices, handpick the e-books, and give special recommendations for each child.
Through our long-term approach, our volunteers build trusting relationships with families, helping to connect them with the community and signposting to additional sources of local support. We are there to support children and families who need us most.
Doorstep Library is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and all those it comes into contact with. All volunteers undergo rigorous safer recruitment processes including specified interview questions, a DBS check, and the collection of written and/or verbal references. Safeguarding training is a mandatory part of the induction process for all volunteers, and they are expected to always adhere to our safeguarding policies and procedures.
Where and When:
We have volunteer opportunities on either Monday, Tuesday or Thursday afternoons starting at 4.30 pm and finishing at 6.30pm.
Volunteers only visit during school term times so there are plenty of breaks throughout the year including 3 one week breaks for half terms, 3 weeks for both Christmas and Easter as well as 7 weeks for the summer holidays. Volunteers are also entitled to 2 absences per term. Overall, volunteers just volunteer for approximately 32 weeks of the year!
If you cannot make a regular commitment, we also have a Stand-In volunteer role where you will stand in for when weekly volunteers are not available. We ask Stand-in volunteers to volunteer 12 times across the academic year which works out to between 1 and 2 volunteer sessions per month.
Why you should volunteer
- It's incredibly fun! You get to explore your inner child and share your passion for books and reading.
- You will be a part of the Doorstep Library community of families, volunteers and staff members.
- You can make a real difference in the lives of others.
- You give back to the community you live in or the community you visit every week.
- You build your confidence and improve your self-esteem.
- You will develop skills and enhance your C.V.
How to apply:
Please visit our https://doorsteplibrary.org.uk/volunteer/ to find out about all of our volunteer roles and to register your interest. We will then send you further information and our application form.
Alternatively, click the pledge button to register your interest and we will contact you.