GFS has given me so much – happiness, confidence and a loving ‘family’. It makes me happy when I hear girls say they have enjoyed what they have done and that they want to come to GFS again. When I meet up with them years later, I see what sort of women they have become, and think “I had a part in that”.
GFS volunteer
Volunteering at a GFS group can seem a scary. But in reality, there is loads of support to help you get the most out of your volunteer experience, and everyone has a role to play in the team.
What support to expect
- Guidance on all the things you need to know to run a GFS group safely and well.
- We offer online training that can enhance your learning, skills and knowledge and may be useful in other work or study.
- Support from our Volunteer Coordinator and support for your group from a GFS staff member who supports either your group or region.
- To be connected with a network of seasoned GFS volunteers around the country, who you can share ideas and experiences with.
- Termly programme packs and an online library of step-by-step activities and programmes to support you in running sessions. Take a look at our activities.
- Safeguarding Awareness training. First Aid and/or Food Hygiene training (as needed)
What you’ll gain
- A chance to make a real difference in the lives of girls.
- You get to be part of a team of like-minded people who are passionate about female empowerment.
- Valuable experience and skills that are, not only great for your CV, but for your own personal development.
- We’re able to provide references for anyone who has been volunteering continuously for six months or more.
What happens when I sign up?
- Step one is for you to register so that we know you’re interested.
- Once we get your registration we’ll get in touch with you to let you know about the opportunities in your area and arrange an informal chat about volunteering. We’ll also send you a short skills survey to complete before the interview.
- In the chat we’ll tell you more about your local group and answer any questions you may have. We’ll also discuss your experience, skills survey and any areas you would like to develop.
- If all is good to go ahead, we will contact your referees, give you information on how to complete your online DBS check (which will be paid for by GFS), and provide further information about training.
Our training
Volunteering with children and young people can enable you to have a huge impact on their lives. This is a big responsibility. We want to ensure that all volunteers have the support and guidance you need to make a difference. The sessions are also an opportunity to connect with other women embarking on the same volunteer journey as you.
For everyone volunteering at one of our groups will attend a 60 minute Safeguarding Awareness Training session, either locally or online. You will also be invited to an optional, but hugely worthwhile Welcome to GFS sessions. Finally, all volunteers are provided with a handbook full of advice about volunteering in your group.
Group Leaders will have access to additional training and two volunteers from each group will receive first aid and one volunteer food hygiene training where relevant.
For our content creators, you will be invited to attend the Welcome to GFS session and regular online sessions to share ideas about on content, activities and programme.
