Volunteering at Barod

Our volunteers support our services in many ways, adding a variety of skills and points of view. Whether you’re looking to work in the substance use field or just want to give back and help others, volunteering with Barod can help meet your goals.

Here’s what some of our current and former volunteers have to say about their experiences:

“Volunteering with Barod and seeing first-hand the work staff do with clients, has opened my eyes to substance use and harm reduction. One day is never the same and it’s given me understanding and empathy for a subject I had little experience of previously.”

Claire, current volunteer

“Volunteering really changed my life and gave me a new career path to follow. I was given the opportunity to volunteer at a Barod drop-in centre which involved helping where possible and making lots of coffee/tea for people who were just desperate for somewhere to go, as was I at the time. I was unemployed and at a very low ebb in my life at the time, I had worked most of my life in ‘dictator-style’ managed organisations and was initially amazed that people were given freedom of choice, a voice and, more importantly, hope that they were better than they actually thought and could make a difference. My confidence, self-esteem and motivation levels gradually returned and I was soon offered a paid post. In March 2019 I celebrated 7 years employment with Barod.”

Rob, former volunteer, now a staff member

“Volunteering at Barod has helped me grow in confidence, whilst learning invaluable communication skills. It feel good to give back to the community and help people, along with friendly and kind staff members who are approachable and keen to help you develop as volunteers. I am really glad I started volunteering.”

Zoe, current volunteer

Hands-on experience – looks great on your CV
Making a difference – great for your ‘feel good factor’
Shadowing experienced team members – learn from some of the best in the business!
Opportunities to shape services – we have made some great improvements based on volunteer suggestions
Develop your own social and professional networks – meet new people and make connections
Access to training and development opportunities – there’s always lots on offer
Support and guidance – you’re own link worker to guide you through your volunteering journey
Possibility of employment – whilst volunteering doesn’t guarantee you a job with us, many of our staff started out as volunteers before becoming paid members of the team. Our Recruitment and Volunteer Coordinator is also available to assist volunteers with CVs and job applications, both to Barod and non-Barod roles.
We will also provide out of pocket expenses to all volunteers, including travel/parking expenses and a budget for lunch if you volunteer at least 5 hours in a day with us.

Our volunteers are as varied as the roles they undertake and we encourage applications by volunteers from all walks of life. You may be retired or you may never have worked, you may have a criminal record or you may be just straight out of university – everyone has something unique they can bring to the table.
The most important thing for us is enthusiasm, empathy and openness; and a willingness to work within our values and regulations.
Basic knowledge of substances is desirable but not essential.
All volunteers will need to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. But please note that past criminal offences will not necessarily prevent you from volunteering with us, each case is reviewed individually based on a number of factors.

We support individuals across South East and West Wales and value support from volunteers in all of our locations. On the application form, you will be able to see the specific locations we provide our services in and select those which suit you.

Here at Barod, we welcome those who want to support our mission in any shape or form – from casual support e.g. when we run events to more structured, regular support, where volunteers are able to participate in our full training plan, developing specific skills.
In the application form, you will be asked to let us know what sort of support you would like to provide and how often. You will also be asked to let us know if you have a preference of working with adults or young people.
Upon submitting an application, our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to discuss your preferences and how they fit into the services provided in your chosen location/s.

For more information, please see our Volunteering Information pack which can be downloaded below
If you have any questions, please contact volunteer@barod.cymru

Downloads

Volunteering information pack (100.72 kb)

How to apply

Before submitting your application, please take the time to read our Volunteering Information pack, which can be downloaded below
Applications to volunteer with Barod are currently open. This means that we are accepting new application forms from aspiring volunteers.
You can find both an electronic and printable versions of the application Form below. Please email both the completed application form to volunteer@barod.cymru.
If you require support with completing the application forms, please contact volunteer@barod.cymru.
Once you have applied, you will hear from our Volunteer Coordinator in order to discuss your preferences. You will also be told if there are opportunities available to start soon.
We may also arrange a time for you to meet with a team leader or manager from your preferred location, to chat a bit more about your experience and reasons for wanting to join Barod as a volunteer.

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Volunteering at Barod

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How to apply

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