Mindline Live Webchat handler (Volunteer) 

Location: Home working

Commitment:   

• Required level of commitment 1 x 3hr shift per week, to include at least 1 x shift a month covering a Saturday or Sunday. 
• Each shift is 8pm – 11pm 

Overview of Role: Volunteering under the supervision of the Mindline Project Lead and Shift Supervisor to operate the Mindline Live Webchat service, supporting the day-to-day running of the Mindline services. The role offers text-based mental health and emotional support for up to 30-minutes per webchat. You will need to understand this is an emotional support service, where other services such as ‘Open Mental Health’ and ‘Crisis Safe Space’ and wider community offers can be offered under the direction of the Shift Supervisor. 

Main purpose of role:

1. To be responsible for answering incoming webchat requests, responding to chat users emotional and mental health needs.  
2. To check-in with Shift Supervisor at the beginning of each shift. The Shift Supervisor is available throughout the shift, providing support and debrief at the end of each shift and provides the supervisor team with a brief shift handover report. 
3. To liaise with the Shift Supervisor to support chat users access more help if needed. 
4. To liaise with Shift Supervisor in the event of a crisis or safeguarding concern, assisting in the process of safely linking the chat user to appropriate support ranging from (e.g. emergency services or First Response).  
5. To record contact and monitoring information in the Views data base, if relevant. 
6. To recognise and take prompt and appropriate action in a crisis or safeguarding situation. To clearly record all information and actions taken and to escalate as per procedure.  
7. To follow Health & Safety and Security procedures and ensure the wellbeing of each service user.  
8. To adhere to Working from Home guidelines. 
9. To attend and contribute to the mandatory monthly group meeting.  
10. To engage with and attend to own needs in the mandatory clinical supervision process. 
11. To attend to 1 to1 supervision with allocated supervisor, quarterly. 
12. To attend appropriate training to remain skilled and updated on Somerset service provision. 
13. To support the technical running of the Live Webchat service through software and routing systems (Call Handling).  
14. To adhere to all policies of the organisation. 
15. In agreement with the Project Lead, to carry out related tasks and duties, as appropriate to the changing needs of the post. 
16. To cover leave and absences where required.  

A PC/Laptop is required for this role with an adequate broadband connection.

Experience/skills required:

1. Good literacy and numeracy skills demonstrated by a good standard of GCSE’S at grade C or above.  
2. Providing text-based support work in either paid or voluntary role. 
3. Experience of working with VCSE and statutory partners, across partnership work  
4. Proven experience of leading/working constructively and effectively in a team. 
5. Compilation of reports, record keeping and other relevant documentation.    

Values:

Mind in Somerset have the expectation that all who Volunteer for us always live our organisation’s values at all times. We ask that you be:

·       Collaborative – work better together

·       Respectful – treat people how we like to be treated

·       Accountable – are responsible for own actions

·       Inclusive – respect everyone’s uniqueness

·       Compassionate – empathise, care and support

Equal Opportunities: 

Mind in Somerset is fully committed to the principle of equal opportunities in employment and opposes all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination, direct or indirect. All employees and volunteers are expected to promote and work fully in line with the company’s Equal Opportunities Policy. Mind in Somerset is a Disability Confident employer and welcomes applications from disabled people. If disabled applicants meet the minimum criteria for the job, they can request and will be offered a guaranteed interview. Should applicants require reasonable adjustment support for the interview/Volunteer meeting, please contact Mind in Somerset.

Criminal Record:

Due to the safeguarding nature of our work, the successful candidate/volunteer may need to complete a fully funded disclosure and barring check (DBS) prior to starting with us. A criminal record will not automatically mean withdrawal of an offer, however, to safeguard our staff, volunteers and clients, further discussion or investigation may be required so that an informed decision can be made as to your suitability to work with vulnerable people to ensure that we are not putting service users at risk. For volunteers there are occasions when a DBS will not be required; however, a risk assessment will be conducted and the form completed and placed within the Volunteer’s electronic file.

All new volunteers will be required to complete 6 essential online training courses as part of their induction into the Charity. Dependant on the type of volunteer role undertaken, additional training may be also required to meet service expectations.  

Volunteer Handyperson ( 2 roles)

Location:

Shepton Mallet & Taunton

Overview of role

To provide practical, basic maintenance and repair support that helps keep Mind in Somerset’s offices functional, and welcoming. The role focuses on tasks that improve day‑to‑day living conditions and support the wider work of the organisation. 

Main purpose of role:

• General repairs — fixing minor issues such as loose hinges, sticking doors, small cracks, or simple furniture repairs. 

• Basic maintenance — tasks like replacing lightbulbs, tightening screws, oiling hinges, or checking for minor wear and tear. 

• Safety checks — reporting hazards, identifying maintenance needs, and escalating anything beyond volunteer scope. 

• Decorating support — light painting, touching up scuffs, filling small holes, or helping prepare areas for redecoration. 

• Outdoor tasks — cleaning external areas, or small upkeep jobs. 

• Supporting staff and service users — completing agreed tasks, offering practical help, and maintaining a friendly, respectful approach

Skills required:

• Practical DIY ability (ideally gain within a trade) with confidence in basic tools and simple repairs. 

• Problem‑solving mindset and willingness to find safe, simple solutions. 

• Reliability and ability to work independently once tasks are agreed. 

• Good communication to clarify what’s needed and report completed work. 

• Respectful and patient when working in people’s homes or shared spaces. 

• Abide by health and safety guidelines and share responsibility for own safety and that of colleagues.   

• To adhere to all volunteer policies of the organisation.   

• Willingness to learn (including independently) to extend their knowledge. 

Values:

Mind in Somerset have the expectation that all who Volunteer for us always live our organisation’s values at all times. We ask that you be:

·       Collaborative – work better together

·       Respectful – treat people how we like to be treated

·       Accountable – are responsible for own actions

·       Inclusive – respect everyone’s uniqueness

·       Compassionate – empathise, care and support

Equal Opportunities: 

Mind in Somerset is fully committed to the principle of equal opportunities in employment and opposes all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination, direct or indirect. All employees and volunteers are expected to promote and work fully in line with the company’s Equal Opportunities Policy. Mind in Somerset is a Disability Confident employer and welcomes applications from disabled people. If disabled applicants meet the minimum criteria for the job, they can request and will be offered a guaranteed interview. Should applicants require reasonable adjustment support for the interview/Volunteer meeting, please contact Mind in Somerset.

Criminal Record:

Due to the safeguarding nature of our work, the successful candidate/volunteer may need to complete a fully funded disclosure and barring check (DBS) prior to starting with us. A criminal record will not automatically mean withdrawal of an offer, however, to safeguard our staff, volunteers and clients, further discussion or investigation may be required so that an informed decision can be made as to your suitability to work with vulnerable people to ensure that we are not putting service users at risk. For volunteers there are occasions when a DBS will not be required; however, a risk assessment will be conducted and the form completed and placed within the Volunteer’s electronic file.

All new volunteers will be required to complete 5 essential online training courses as part of their induction into the Charity. Dependant on the type of volunteer role undertaken, additional training may be also required to meet service expectations.  

Singing Group Facilitator – Text Factor (Yeovil Hub)

Role Title:

Singing Group Facilitator

Location:

Yeovil Hub

Time Commitment:

Fridays, 2:00 – 3:30pm
Total time required: 2.5 hours (includes set-up and pack-down)

Reports to:

Donna Waddleton – Operations Manager

Purpose of the Role:

To facilitate our long-running, well-loved singing group Text Factor – a relaxed, karaoke-style session where participants can sing, listen, or simply enjoy the music in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

About the Group:

Text Factor is a popular weekly group that uses a karaoke-style format. Songs are often chosen by group members and displayed via PowerPoint using YouTube lyric videos. Participants are welcome to sing solo, in duets or groups, or just enjoy the experience from the audience. It’s a fun, light-hearted way to wrap up the week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Facilitate the running of the Text Factor group each Friday afternoon.
• Set up and pack down equipment before and after each session (approx. 30 minutes either side of the session).
• Encourage a fun, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome to participate.
• Manage the playlist and presentation of song lyrics/videos (PowerPoint and YouTube).
• Support individuals who want to sing, whether solo or with others.
• Troubleshoot basic tech issues (e.g., sound, videos not loading).
• Be responsive to group dynamics, allowing flexibility and spontaneity.
• Ensure the space remains safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Confident, friendly presence and comfortable leading a group.
• Strong interest in music and group facilitation.
• Basic computer literacy – able to use PowerPoint and YouTube.
• Good organisational skills and punctuality.
• Ability to work inclusively and supportively with a diverse group.

Desirable:

• Experience in group facilitation, music, or karaoke-style events.
• Familiarity with popular songs across decades and genres.
• Understanding of community work or wellbeing-focused programs.

Additional Information:

• All necessary equipment and materials will be provided.
• This is a volunteer role.
• Training and support will be provided.

Values:

Mind in Somerset have the expectation that all who Volunteer for us always live our organisation’s values at all times. We ask that you be:

·       Collaborative – work better together

·       Respectful – treat people how we like to be treated

·       Accountable – are responsible for own actions

·       Inclusive – respect everyone’s uniqueness

·       Compassionate – empathise, care and support

Equal Opportunities: 

Mind in Somerset is fully committed to the principle of equal opportunities in employment and opposes all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination, direct or indirect. All employees and volunteers are expected to promote and work fully in line with the company’s Equal Opportunities Policy. Mind in Somerset is a Disability Confident employer and welcomes applications from disabled people. If disabled applicants meet the minimum criteria for the job, they can request and will be offered a guaranteed interview. Should applicants require reasonable adjustment support for the interview/Volunteer meeting, please contact Mind in Somerset.

Criminal Record:

Due to the safeguarding nature of our work, the successful candidate/volunteer may need to complete a fully funded disclosure and barring check (DBS) prior to starting with us. A criminal record will not automatically mean withdrawal of an offer, however, to safeguard our staff, volunteers and clients, further discussion or investigation may be required so that an informed decision can be made as to your suitability to work with vulnerable people to ensure that we are not putting service users at risk. For volunteers there are occasions when a DBS will not be required; however, a risk assessment will be conducted and the form completed and placed within the Volunteer’s electronic file.

All new volunteers will be required to complete 5 essential online training courses as part of their induction into the Charity. Dependant on the type of volunteer role undertaken, additional training may be also required to meet service expectations.  

For an application form and information pack for this role, please email mindline@mindinsomerset.org.uk

Summary

Mindline Somerset is an Emotional Support Helpline. Well established since 2001 we are looking for more volunteers to help run our 24/7 service.