Start the New Year by Making a Difference: Volunteer with Forward Carers
As we step into a new year, many of us reflect on the past and think about how we can make a positive impact in the months ahead. Volunteering your time to help others is a great way to make a difference, so make your New Year’s resolution to volunteer with Forward Carers.
We have two exciting volunteering roles available, both aimed at supporting unpaid Carers. Join our mission to build Carer-friendly communities and help improve the lives of those who dedicate their time to caring a for family member or friend who relies on them for support. If you can spare 8 to 10 hours a month at locations across Birmingham over the next six to 12 months, take a look at our volunteer opportunities below.
Carers Voice
If you would like to help us in other ways, why not sign up to our Carers Voice programme? Many Carers tell us they often feel unheard and under pressure, so we’re passionate about ensuring Carers have a real say in the services that impact them. There are many ways to take part in our Carers Voice programme —whether it’s sharing your thoughts in surveys, joining in-person focus groups, or sharing your own story of being a Carer. Sign up today.
1. Volunteer Community Engagement Assistant
As a Volunteer Community Engagement Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in identifying hidden Carers (those who haven’t yet realised that they are a Carer) and connecting them with the support they need. You’ll be the friendly face of Forward Carers at public events, stalls, and community outreach activities. This role is perfect for anyone who loves engaging with people and making meaningful connections.
Key responsibilities
- Engage in light-touch conversations to provide information about Forward Carers’ services and mission.
- Accurately record interactions with the public.
- Document your volunteering hours and participate in training sessions.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills (or a willingness to develop them).
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine interest in helping people.
- Teamwork, reliability, and enthusiasm for learning.
- Flexibility to attend pop-up events and outreach activities.
Read the Volunteer Community Engagement Assistant role description to find out more.
2. Volunteer Health Liaison
In this role, you will work alongside the Forward Carers team to improve communication between unpaid Carers and health services such as GPs and hospitals. You’ll act as a bridge, helping Carers navigate healthcare systems and ensuring their voices are heard.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a point of contact between Carers and local health services.
- Support Carers to express their health concerns and the needs of those they care for.
- Signpost Carers to relevant resources and organisations.
- Assist with organising health-related workshops and webinars.
- Provide feedback on health-related challenges faced by Carers.
- Collaborate with Forward Carers to identify gaps in healthcare support.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Empathy and an understanding of the challenges faced by unpaid Carers.
- Organisational skills and the ability to prioritise tasks.
- Confidence in engaging with healthcare professionals and Carers.
What We Offer
- Comprehensive training
- Ongoing support and supervision.
- Achievement certificates and documented experience.
- A reference for job applications after six months of volunteering.
Find out more about the Volunteer Health Liaison Support role and see if it is something that would interest you.
Why Volunteer with Forward Carers?
If you are an unpaid Carer and decide to volunteer with Forward Carers, you’ll be part of a friendly team who is understanding about your caring role and the demands that it can have on your time. We understand that you may have been out of the formal workplace for some time and volunteering with us is a great way to rebuild confidence, gain new skills and experience should you wish to return to work. You will be helping other Carers to get support or encouraging someone who has not realised that they’re a Carer to make the first step.
Take the First Step Today
Start the New Year with purpose, apply for one of these rewarding volunteer roles and help us make 2025 a year of positive change for Carers in Birmingham.
Both roles can be applied for by completing this application form.
