Information Pack
About Us
Headway East London (www.headwayeastlondon.org) is a charity supporting people living with brain injury. Working across 13 London boroughs, we offer specialist support and services for survivors and their families. Our offerings include therapies, advocacy, family support, community support, and a day service—a community venue where people can make the most of their abilities and interests. We also promote awareness and understanding of brain injury through public information and training for university students, professionals, and businesses. Our vision is to build a community where people with brain injury are valued, respected, and able to fulfill their potential.
Volunteering at Headway East London
Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Volunteers are a vital part of our community, working alongside our team, engaging with members, and helping with activities and events at our Hackney centre. About one-third of our volunteers have a brain injury, bringing valuable understanding and experience. Others are interested in learning more about brain injury or disability. If you want to meet new people in a relaxed environment and get involved in art, cooking, music, gardening, or social activities, you’re in the right place! No special skills are needed; we provide induction, regular meetings, training, and supervision.
Volunteering Roles
There are many ways to join our community, whether visiting our Hackney centre weekly or participating in events. Explore each role below to find your best fit:
* Day Service Volunteer: Support creative projects at our centre, including art, cooking, and gardening. Join us once a week, 10am-3pm.
* Evening Service Volunteer: Assist Wednesday afternoons, 3.30pm-8.30pm, with activities, support, and socialising.
* Saturday Socials Volunteer: Help run our monthly social group, first Saturday of each month, 11am-4pm.
* Events Volunteer: Support various evening and occasional weekend events, from supper clubs to exhibitions.
Volunteer Roles Details
Day Service Volunteer
Location: Timber Wharf, 238-240 Kingsland Road, London E2 8AX
Commitment: One day per week, Monday to Friday, 10am-3pm, minimum 4 months
Responsibilities: Support activities, assist members with using computers, cooking, art, initiate discussions, help with lunchtime routines, ensure safety and tidiness, support outings, and attend training and supervision.
Evening Service Volunteer
Location: Same as above
Commitment: Wednesdays, 3.30pm-8.30pm, minimum 4 months
Responsibilities: Similar to Day Service, supporting evening activities and member engagement.
Saturday Socials Volunteer
Location: Same as above
Commitment: First Saturday of each month, 11am-4pm, minimum 4 months
Events Volunteer
Location: Centre and external venues as needed
Commitment: Flexible, usually after 4.30pm or 5pm, with no formal minimum
Responsibilities: Support event setup, guest reception, food service, support exhibitions and other activities, and ensure positive experience for attendees.
Who Are We Looking For?
* Age 18 or older
* Experience working with people and building connections
* Clear, sensitive communication skills
* Empathy and ability to relate to individuals
* Ability to work independently and in a team
* Patience, humor, flexibility, reliability, enthusiasm
* Interest in supporting members and participating in activities
* Optional: ability to lead small group activities
* Alignment with our values and commitment to confidentiality and equal opportunities
Benefits and Support
All volunteers receive training, ongoing support, regular meetings, supervision, and opportunities to gain experience. Expenses such as travel and lunch are reimbursed or paid, with receipts required. Volunteers will also have the chance to be part of a lively community and receive references. For those with a brain injury, additional support stages are available.
Application Process
Complete an application form and provide two references. After review, we’ll invite you for an interview and visit. You’ll sign a Volunteer Agreement and, if applicable, complete additional forms for tailored support. Visits can be arranged beforehand. For questions or access requirements, contact our HR team or Volunteer Lead, Katya Goloubeva, via email or phone.
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