Volunteering
Volunteers are an integral part of our team here at MDC and we appreciate everyone who gives up their time to help deliver vital services and support us in our aim to empower and provide equality for D/deaf people in Greater Manchester!
Please see below the process for registering as a volunteer:
- Read and learn about the various volunteering opportunities at MDC (detailed below)
- Decide on the service(s) you would be suitable for and would like to volunteer with
- Fill out the form at the bottom of this page
- If appropriate, arrange a meeting with the Volunteer Co-Ordinator to discuss paperwork and to organise a DBS Check
- Upon receipt of a satisfactory DBS, arrange induction at MDC
*Please note that all volunteers are subject to a DBS check (Enhanced where necessary) and require a minimum BSL (British Sign Language) Level 1 or previous experience working within the Deaf community. All volunteers will have an initial trial session to ensure they are suitable for the service chosen. Please see other opportunities at MDC suitable for beginners with no prior experience at the bottom of this email.
Please explore the website to see the kind of activities we offer, which include:
Wellbeing Group
Our Well-being Group focuses on promoting positive mental well-being and being a place where D/deaf people can come to talk about their lives and engage in various activities. The group was established to help service users improve self-confidence and try new activities that can support positive well-being and health. This group is for people aged 16+.
Dave Project
The DAVE Project (Deaf Active Volunteer Experience) is aimed towards 14 - 25 year olds and has been designed to meet the needs of young deaf people who are approaching a transitional age in their lives. This project provides them with the knowledge and skills they need to function in a predominantly hearing society, raising their aspirations and expectations. The DAVE Project has undoubtedly assisted in the growth, independence and development of new skills for all those involved. The success of our young people is testimony to the individual growth, confidence and self-belief/worth that has surged within them.
Youth Group
MDC’s Youth Group is where young deaf children from the ages of 6 - 13 can socialise, engage and develop their own deaf identities. This provision encourages involvement in a meaningful and enjoyable way with various activities that are both socially and educationally delivered.
Job Club
The job club provides vital support for the deaf community. In addition to this it enables them to gain skills and build their confidence, whilst seeking employment. As a volunteer it will be your job to provide support to the individual with: job searches, contacting employers and completing application forms/CVs. Please be advised that due to the level of input needed, we would advise all volunteers hold a minimum of BSL Level 3 to support in Job Club.
Social Bar
The Social Bar at MDC is a good opportunity for both D/deaf and hard of hearing people to interact socially. Volunteers work on the bar to serve drinks and confectionary snacks to service users and occasionally BSL students. Ideally, volunteers will have a minimum of BSL Level 2, feel confident with their BSL skills and have good customer service skills. The bar is typically open every Monday 7:30pm -9:30pm and there are occasional weekend events too. Please note that volunteers will be accompanied with a staff member at all times and will not be asked to calculate profit or lock up.
Admin Support Worker/Reception Cover
If you would like to develop your administrative/customer care skills whilst working in a BSL immersive environment, volunteering in MDC’s reception may be ideal for you. This would require you to carry out simple administrative tasks such as maintaining and updating records, processing volunteering application forms, photocopying, responding to queries over the telephone/via email/face to face. Ideally you will be personable and have good initiative. Voluntary hours can be between Mon-Fri 10am-3pm (this can be discussed in further detail).
Events Helpers
Throughout the year we run many events at MDC, big and small for various things. We always appreciate the help of our volunteers to ensure the smooth running of these events; responsibilities could potentially include: collecting money on the door, selling raffle tickets or working on the bar. These events are sporadic and could take place during the evenings or weekends. Please let us know (by detailing on the registration form) if you would be happy to be contacted when such events arise.
Fundraising
As a charity, we rely on fundraising to help fund and support the continuation of our services. We require volunteers to organise small scale fundraising events such as: quiz nights, arts and crafts events and bucket collections. These events are organised by you to suit your own schedules.
PLEASE NOTE:
Manchester Deaf Centre does not carry out clinical support such as hearing checks therefore may not be suitable for those looking for audiology experience. If you would like to gain experience in this area, you can try contacting the Manchester City Council Sensory Support Service on 0161 219 2658.
