Volunteer Coordinator

Job Purpose:

Plan and undertake all administrative and coordination functions in relation to the smooth running of Lyttelton Well, in coordination with other managers. Support and help develop the Christian ethos and mission of the Christian venture and charity known as Lyttelton Well.

It is a requirement of the post holder to be a Christian as a GOR under the Equality Act 2010 with an active and outworking Christian faith.

Organisation context:

1. Lyttelton Well is a well-established Christian charity located on the high street in the beautiful town of Great Malvern.

2. It was founded in 1993 as an inter-church initiative and continues to enjoy the support of a range of local churches.

3. It fulfils its purpose through running a Christian Bookshop, through the services of a highly respected Counselling Service, room hire, participation in a local Food Bank and through the Lyttelton Well Café, which combines providing simple high-quality refreshments in a pleasant environment with an opportunity for pastoral input when appropriate.

4. The Management structure reflects these different roles, and the Management Team is comprised of the Café Manager, the Head of Counselling, the Office Manager and the Volunteer Coordinator.

5. Other roles are taken by a range of paid staff, and by many volunteers, who play a vital role in the charity and maintain the great sense of involvement of the local community.

Reporting to: Board of Trustees or to a line manager designated by the Trustees.

Position Summary: The Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for recruiting, training, scheduling and managing volunteers who help run the café, bookshop, and counselling service, all in close cooperation with the other managers. This role is crucial in ensuring that our organisation operates smoothly while upholding the Christian ethos and mission of the Christian venture. The Volunteer Coordinator with empathy for volunteers and an understanding of their needs, will work closely with the Managers to create a welcoming and effective volunteer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Recruitment and Outreach:
   • Identify and reach out to potential volunteers through community events, church networks, social media, and local organizations.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with local churches, and community groups to encourage volunteer participation.
   • Ensure volunteers are aligned with the vision and purpose of Lyttelton Well.
2. Training and Orientation:
   • With the support of the Managers, develop and implement a comprehensive training program for new volunteers, including café operations, customer service, safeguarding and health and safety procedures.
   • Conduct regular orientation sessions and ensure that all volunteers are well-informed about the mission, values, and expectations.
3. Scheduling and Coordination:
   • Create and manage volunteer schedules to ensure adequate coverage during café and counselling hours and special events.
   • Coordinate with the Café Manager and Counselling Manager to address scheduling conflicts and adjust as needed.
4. Supervision and Support:
   • Provide ongoing support and supervision to volunteers, including resolving any issues that arise and offering guidance as needed.
   • Develop an understanding of and be sympathetic towards the range of learning needs and individual circumstances that a number of the volunteers have.
   • Foster a positive and inclusive volunteer environment, encouraging teamwork and open communication.
   • To seek to identify how volunteers can best serve according to their gifts and skill sets.
   • To act as Duty Manager when required.
5. Recognition and Feedback:
   • Develop and implement a system for recognizing and appreciating the contributions of volunteers.
   • Help with the production of a regular newsletter to volunteers. 
   • Solicit and act on volunteer feedback to continually improve their experience and address any concerns.
6. Administrative Duties:
   • Maintain accurate records of volunteer hours, roles, and contact information, ensuring this information adheres to GDPR.
   • Prepare reports on volunteer activities to help departmental heads.
   • Record information, data, and positive stories of volunteers' experiences that may be relevant to supporting grant funding bids.
7. Event Planning:
   • Assist in organizing and coordinating special events and outreach programs, including volunteer involvement and logistics.

Qualifications:

• Strong commitment to the Christian faith and our mission.
• Previous experience in volunteer management or community outreach is preferred.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of individuals.
• Experience working with adults with learning needs.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.

Personal Attributes:

• Passion for serving others, empathy, supporting their wider pastoral needs, and fostering a spirit of community.
• Positive attitude and willingness to adapt to changing needs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community.
• Flexible working hours.
• Access to café perks and special events.
• A supportive and faith-driven work environment.
• Generous employer pension contirubution.