Volunteer Barber

Approximately 6 hours per month on an ad-hoc, weekday basis
- Richmond, Kingston, Wandsworth, Merton and Sutton boroughs

**The Role**:
The role of the Volunteer Barber is an important one to the charity as part of our confidence-building and resettlement efforts. The role will suit someone who is a trainee or qualified barber or hairdresser and who is mindful of how much a new appearance can increase the self-esteem of someone who is experiencing homelessness or is being resettled by SPEAR.

**Estimated time commitment required for the role**:
Dates for 2024 have not yet been scheduled but we are looking for approximately 2-3 volunteer barbers who can dedicate approximately 6 hours per month on an ad-hoc, weekday basis.

**Responsibilities**:

- Attend Health and Wellbeing Days and on average complete between 10 to 15 haircuts each day.
- Provide Human Resources with the volunteer hours you have carried out on a monthly basis.
- Uphold SPEAR’s data confidentiality policy and code of conduct.
- Immediately report any causes for concern around a client to the Homeless Health Link Manager or Human Resources. Volunteers also undertake to report any immediate health emergency to the relevant emergency services if judged necessary.
- Report to line responsibility for any safeguarding issues and attend support meetings.
- Work with other volunteers in similar roles.

**About You**:
You’ll have:

- We are looking for a trainee or qualified barber or hairdresser.
- You will be familiar with the approved codes of practice in hairdressing standards.
- Friendly, empathetic approach and a good listener.
- Have an understanding of the issues surrounding homelessness, rough sleeping, mental health challenges and substance addiction.
- Is open-minded with a non-judgemental approach to persons experiencing homelessness, addiction and recovery.
- Good communication skills.
- Is able to establish and maintain appropriate boundaries.
- Can work on their own.
- Adhere to the work and values of SPEAR.

**What's in it for you**:

- All out-of-pocket expenses, are reimbursed.
- All volunteers will receive an induction to volunteering and to their specific roles and projects.
- While volunteering at the project, volunteers have full liability insurance cover.
- There are appreciation events to recognise the important contribution that volunteers make.
- Personal & professional development through training, support and ongoing evaluation.
- SPEAR can provide a reference after 6 months of active continuous volunteering.
- Contribute to a project that really does make a difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness.