Volunteering For Focus.
Volunteers are wonderful people, they come from all walks of life, all ages, male and female, and everyone is welcome. Different people bring different skills and knowledge with them; they also gain in different ways. Volunteers are vital to the success and sustainability of Focus.
Frequently asked questions.
What do volunteers do?
Referees and lines people are important jobs at league and tournament matches once a month. The weekly training session require assistant coaches. Helping with organisation at events and of course fund raisers are always welcome.
Where will I volunteer?
Most volunteers help in their own community, working alongside police officers and youth workers during weekly training sessions.
There are also opportunities for league and tournament matches each month, held at Carter Community College in Hamworthy during the autumn and winter and LimeLights at Canford Heath during the summer.
How many hours will I have to volunteer?
Usually 1-2 hours a week for training sessions. The league usually start at 5.30 and finish at around 8.30-9 p.m., depending on how many teams we have playing on the night. Tournaments are usually held during the day during school holidays
How much does volunteering cost?
Nothing. Volunteers are paid for out of pocket travel expenses.
Do I have to be good at sport?
No, those with an enthusiasm for football are needed for coaching, refereeing etc., but there are other jobs needing to be done, which require basic football knowledge e.g. lines person. What you do need is enthusiasm, commitment, good communication skills; enjoy working with young people and as part of a team. Most importantly have a sense of humour and fun.
Why should I get involved?
Helping others is satisfying, rewarding and fun. Not only will you be helping your own community and supporting the young people who live there, you will also gain valuable career and personal skills and experience for your C.V. Volunteering enhances your employability and develops skills such as leadership, communication and teamwork.
Training courses are available** for F.A. Level 1 Football Coach and F.A. Basic Referee, also for young people over 16 years of age, the Junior Football Organisers Course and Sports Leader Awards. A variety of additional courses are available throughout the year.
"Volunteering gave me a new focus, and an opportunity to do what I enjoy most. I felt wanted and my team won" Young volunteer. Nacro Dorset.
"I wanted to get out and meet people, through volunteering I met people I would never have met without it" Volunteer, Nacro Dorset.
How do I get involved?
Easy, download the following form You will be invited to attend an informal interview and complete a Criminal Records Bureau check as you will be working with children and young people.
Application forms can be e-mailed to:
Elspeth.Gregson@Nacro.org.uk, or print it off and post it to:
Elspeth Gregson
Volunteer Co-ordinator
Nacro Dorset
The Lion Works
543, Wallisdown Road,
Poole,
Dorset.
BH12 5AD
If you would like to chat about volunteering, please give Elspeth a call on 01202 539966, or any one of the Focus organiser team.
** Terms and conditions apply.