We are currently expanding this service to cover further parts of the borough. We worked very closely with the Youth Service in the borough over the summer months and assisted the summer programmes and fun days. We have established links with various training organisations in the delivery of our workshops . Volunteers are needed to engage with young people along side the team. This involves both day and evening shifts. Networking with other local agencies is a key aspect of the team’s role. Young People may need to be referred to or informed of services and our volunteers help keep abreast of what’s on offer to young people. Our workshops are organic in design to allow for flexibility in delivery, thereby keeping up with new trends. Our volunteers assist in gathering material and researching enquiries.
Adult Programme
The adult programme supports those over the age of 18 to address their substance misuse within a harm minimisation framework. Following training volunteers are able to assist in screening and drug testing potential clients. Volunteers are also able to get involved within the needle exchange, distributing safe injecting equipment, paraphernalia and sexual health protection. For those who demonstrate the relative skills carrying out assessments and supporting staff members to deliver programmes of care can be negotiated. Volunteers within this programme will also be required to support clients on appointments within their care plan. This can involve travel both in and out of London depending on circumstance. On occasions fun days for clients may be organised. Volunteers are able to be involved in the planning stages and organisation of the event.
Administration
Running a busy agency isn’t easy. Promotional events and requests for data are hidden and yet very important areas of our work. Volunteers are encouraged to utilize existing skills and motivation to enhance the profile of the agency. Whether this be computer, artistic, or organisational skills we’re open to suggestion. Data can sometimes be a frightening word for some, but we know that for those that like a bit of control…. This can be music to your ears.
Life Skills Programme
Our Life Skills programme helps those service users who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. We believe that a persons potential can be exposed with support and encouragement. Volunteers are needed to befriend and mentor our service users who request this option. Mentors will be assigned to a service user. The role will be to assist in escorting to various appointments, and encourage healthy options outside of the agency. Positions for volunteer tutors are also accepted in accordance with competence to deliver various workshops and therapies. Volunteers are able to assist in the evenings and weekends with out of house recreational activities or complementary therapies.
Volunteer Counsellors
The Axe Street project promotes self exploration and provides a separate counselling service for those who would benefit from a structured number of sessions to explore underlining thoughts and feelings. Referrals for this service are made from both the Adult service and the Young Peoples Detached Team. Volunteer counsellors must be BACP accredited or in their final year of diploma study, and working towards BACP accreditation. All counsellors must be receiving external supervision and covered by a valid certificate of Indemnity Insurance.
The Axe Street Project offers a challenging, evolving environment to work. It is also an interesting and rewarding organisation where volunteers play a vital and much needed role in delivering client care. Axe Street Ltd values and appreciates the input of our volunteers and strives to make the volunteering experience rewarding and productive.