Volunteers are essential to The Mitchemp Trust and we are always looking to recruit new and enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to support our work. The dedication, hard work, energy and enthusiasm of our volunteers ensures that we can make a lasting difference to the lives of vulnerable young people.

What do volunteers do?

At the camps our volunteers work with a group of up to 10 young people alongside two volunteering colleagues and an activity instructor. They take part in the activities with their group, and are involved in ensuring the welfare and organisation of the young people, helping them to get the most out of the programme. From encouraging them to try an activity, supporting their social relationships and promoting team work, to ensuring they have their packed lunch and get to the activity on time.

Being a Mitchemp Trust volunteer has been such a rewarding experience; meeting great people, doing all the activities and learning new skills. But the best bit has to be seeing the change in the young people that come to the camps. I feel it’s such an amazing opportunities for them, one that gives them life changing experiences that will stay with them forever. - Lou Bull 

Who volunteers?

Volunteers come from a whole range of backgrounds, ages and experience. Some have previously worked with young people or are interested in getting involved in this type of work; others have enjoyed camps, adventure trips and outdoor pursuits themselves and would like to give young people this same experience. Some people are just interested in doing something valuable with their time.

Volunteering on the camp has to be one of the most rewarding, challenging, eye opening, satisfying and exhilarating thing I have ever done. Seeing the youngsters grow in confidence during the week was amazing and their “can do” attitudes at the end of the week was a testament to their abilities to overcome their greatest fears. - Jo Bradshaw 

Why volunteer?

Volunteering can be challenging at times, but people are often surprised by just how much they personally benefit from the experience. There is a real sense of achievement in seeing a group of young people develop over the camp, and pride in knowing that they have given these young people an invaluable experience. Volunteering is an excellent way to develop skills and experience working with young people; a chance to spend a week in the outdoors participating in a whole range of activities, and an opportunity for developing personal confidence and skills. Most importantly, it’s a chance to make a real impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.

I’ve volunteered with the Mitchemp Trust for 2 years now and it’s without a doubt one of the most rewarding, and fun, things I’ve ever done. It was great to witness the young people growing in confidence and a real privilege to play a part in their adventure. I would recommend volunteering to anyone who is up for a challenge and looking to do something truly rewarding! - Rowan Price 

Requirements

• Applicants must be aged over 18 years old
• Applicants will need to undertake an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check
• Applicants will be required to provide two references

Volunteers need to be enthusiastic, hard working and willing to get involved in a wide range of activities. They should be responsible individuals, able to act as a positive role model to vulnerable young people. Volunteers need to be committed to helping young people have a fun and enjoyable week in a safe and challenging environment.

Previous experience of working with young people or of outdoor activities would be beneficial, but is not essential. No formal qualifications are required.

What I hadn't anticipated was how much I would personally gain from the experience. I came home with a great feeling of adventure; I had tackled some fears of my own and feel a stronger person for it. - Ross Corker 

Training

Volunteer training is offered at a weekend course held in the Brecon Beacons; accommodation and food will be provided. Sessions include behaviour management, child protection, risk assessment, and the principals of outdoor education, as well as specific training around the camps, activities and the work of The Mitchemp Trust.

Wherever possible new volunteers should attend this course, although alternative arrangements may be made in some circumstances.

For further information click here…

Volunteering at camp is one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The young people were truly amazing and I learnt a lot about myself from them and the experience. Volunteers are made to feel very welcomed and cherished. I’d definitely recommend getting involved to others. - Anneka Sutton

Camp Dates

• Friday 12th August to Wednesday 17th August 2011
• Friday 19th August to Wednesday 24th August 2011

Travel to the camp venues is provided from the Wiltshire area, and assistance will be offered in making travel arrangements where required.

How to Apply

If you would like to apply to volunteer please download the application form here. We will be in touch as soon as possible on receipt of your application to discuss the next steps. Or for more information please contact Tessa Woodrow.