The project:
Swarthmore Connected is a new project at Swarthmore that has been funded by the National Lottery Coronavirus Community Support Fund.
Covid 19 has led to increased social isolation and a widening of the digital divide. They are aiming to Connect people to Swarthmore, and to each other, with a new Chrome Book loan and support scheme, providing them with new opportunities for engagement and support through digital engagement opportunities.
Who do Swarthmore need?
Swarthmore are specifically looking for volunteers who have some IT knowledge, together with the skills and time to be able to assist people who have very little or no IT experience and skills. You would be supporting participants with tasks ranging from logging on and using basic software, to accessing the internet, using online platforms and engaging in informal online groups and workshops.
They will provide you with a basic mobile phone but you will need to have your own IT equipment and be willing and able to use these to work from home.
You will need to be friendly and confident in speaking and listening to people and give a reasonable level of commitment.
Speakers of additional languages are welcomed.
If you have any extra skills such as visual arts / creative writing / discussion you may have the opportunity to gain experience in co-facilitating small group workshops. We are open to discussing your ideas.
Swarthmore Connected Volunteer Role Outline:
You will be based at your home.
You will report to and be supported by the Volunteer Coordinator.
The number of hours and contact times will be agreed with you, the volunteer coordinator and the participant (s) you are partnered with. They are looking for people who can commit for as little as 2 hours a week, but those who can do more are also welcomed.
Provide mentoring and buddy support for participants in the Swarthmore Connected project.
You will be partnered with a participant in the programme and will communicate with them by phone and digitally., supporting them to use / increase their confidence in using their personal IT device or their Swarthmore Connected loaned Chrome book.
You will support the participant with learning basic skills such as use of the internet, email, navigating simple programmes and accessing online platforms.
You will keep a simple record log of your relevant activity with the participant /s and feed back successes and concerns to the project coordinator.
You will need to complete a simple induction process and some online training.
You will need to comply with all relevant Swarthmore policies such as Safeguarding, Equal Opportunities and confidentiality.
Benefits to volunteers:
Experience in a mentoring and support role.
Experience working with an educational establishment.
Opportunity to meet new people in your community
Opportunity to make a positive impact during challenging times and make a real change to people’s lives
Develop skills and enhance your CV.
Swarthmore relies on people like you for volunteering. Whether it’s in the classroom, or behind the scenes, your skills can help us make more of a difference to the community they serve. Swarthmore welcome new ideas about how volunteers at Swarthmore can make our Centre a welcoming venue and provide opportunities for our students.
For more information, visit their website.
