Volunteering
Since its inception, Iceni Ipswich has welcomed and acknowledged the contribution of volunteers in supporting the provision of our services.
Support families in Suffolk by becoming a volunteer for Iceni
As well as our full-time staff, Iceni benefits greatly from the additional support of its ever-growing team of volunteers, who assist our clients in a number of different ways.
Our volunteers are integral to the team here at Iceni and are greatly valued. They will be an ever-increasing resource and essential in helping Iceni meet its objectives over the coming years.
Get in touchWhy Volunteer?
In addition to providing value for money, volunteering for Iceni generates social value for the community, for the organisation and for volunteers themselves.
- Value for the community: Voluntary service is at the heart of community-building. It encourages people to be responsible citizens and provides them with an environment where they can be engaged and make a difference. It also enhances social solidarity, social capital and quality of life in a society.
- Value for the organisation: Iceni would not be able to deliver services without the support of volunteers. Volunteers extend the paid workforce with a median average of five volunteers to every paid member of staff.
- Value for the volunteer: Feedback from Iceni volunteers confirm that they are pleased to be able to do something to help, proud to have something to offer society, and that they have a strong sense of belonging to a caring organisation that makes a difference in the places where they live.
What do our volunteers do?
In addition to providing value for money, volunteering for Iceni generates social value for the community, for the organisation and for volunteers themselves.
- Reception duties
- Helping in the coffee bar
- Assisting staff
- Admin tasks
Our volunteers normally commit to doing at least one or two shifts a week. Morning shifts are 9.00am to 1.00pm, while afternoon shifts are 1.00pm to 5.00pm.
Volunteer therapists
Volunteer counsellors and complementary therapists contribute approximately 40 hours per week. We can expect to utilise the services of 12-14 volunteers of this nature. In real terms this equates to a full-time salaried counselling position at a saving of £25,000.
Volunteer student placements
Each year we have two student social workers on placement with us. This equates to the equivalent of two full-time family support workers, representing a saving of £45,000 per annum. We also receive £2,000 for having such students placed with us.
What does Iceni give its volunteers?
In return we can give you:
- Training
- Support and supervision
- Personal and professional development
- Insurance
- Travel expenses
Who Can Volunteer?
We are committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for everyone who volunteers with us. Our volunteers comprise of former clients, students, retired, unemployed, employed, disabled, old and young, and a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. All we ask is that volunteers share Iceni’s philosophy.
Do you have:
- A non-judgmental attitude
- A desire to learn new skills and increase your knowledge around issues related to addictions
- Good listening skills
- Enthusiasm and a sense of humour
- Ideas and knowledge that can help Iceni to evolve and improve our delivery approach
If so we are keen to hear from you to discuss how you can get involved and become part of the Iceni family.
Take the first step and complete our Volunteer Application Form. Once returned to us, we will invite you in for a chat and a chance to look around and meet the team. You can then decide if Iceni is for you.
Get in TouchWhat do our volunteers say?
"Brings out the best in me!"
Wayne | Iceni Volunteer
"I like helping people and Iceni gives me more opportunity to interact with people."
Jay | Iceni Volunteer
"It’s brilliant to work for an organisation which helps so many people back on the road to recovery. Lovely, friendly place to work!"
Janice | Iceni Volunteer
Other ways you can help Suffolk families that need your support
As a charity, Iceni depends on the ongoing support of businesses, individuals and local authorities. There are various ways you can lend a hand and make a positive difference to families across Suffolk.
