BCS incorporates volunteers in many of its programs and also its policies, procedures and guidelines. At BCS we often refer to volunteers as unpaid employees as we view our volunteers’ contributions, performance development, supervision and work experience as integral to all the work we undertake. We understand that there are some differences between how we support our paid and unpaid employees, but the core elements at BCS are the same and we ensure that that these elements are provided to all of our people such as:

• A safe workplace
• A workplace based on the values of dignity and respect
• Performance development opportunities
• Supervision
• Meaningful work
• Policies, procedures and guidelines to support and guide our work practices
• And so much more!

BCS encourages our unpaid employees to consider a career path with BCS and they are eligible to apply for our Internal Vacancies. In addition, BCS incorporates the sharing and networking of both paid and unpaid employees in our activities, such as induction, BCS training programs, and BCS celebrations and events to name a few.

As with our paid employees, BCS volunteers are required to undergo a police history check and hold a valid Working With Vulnerable People Card.  Registration for a Working With Vulnerable People Card is free for volunteers through the ACT Government.

BCS recognises the considerable and unique contribution that volunteers make to BCS participants and the community. Thank you for your gift – you make a difference in the lives of people every day!

Working with Vulnerable People Registration

How our volunteers help

Transport

Transport volunteers assist people to meet essential appointments such as medical or paramedical, where no suitable alternatives exist. Transport can also be provided for social, recreational and educational activities.Transport can be provided seven days a week.

Those assisted include frail aged people and people with a disability, their carers, families or other people with an assessed need.

You will need your own ACT registered vehicle, comprehensive insurance on that vehicle, a current drivers licence, safe driving skills, and appropriate people skills.

Mileage reimbursement is available.

Shopping Assistance

Shopping volunteers assist people who have difficulty to shopping on their own.

A volunteer may go with a list and shop for someone, or take the person out to shop with assistance.  Volunteers may require a car for this role.

Friendly Visiting

These volunteers visit various people in the community who are isolated, including families, individuals, or frail aged people.

Support for Facilitated Playgroups

BCS runs three facilitated playgroups that are open to parents and caregivers with their babies and pre-school aged children.

• Dunlop Playgroup in the Park meets weekly during term time and participants enjoy games and activities.
• Florey Paint and Play meets weekly at Florey Primary School during school term time and participants enjoy craft activities
• Mothers’ Voice meets weekly at Belconnen Library Community Room all year round and participants enjoy music and singing.

Volunteers assist children with activities in a supportive and practical way.

English Conversation Group

English Conversation Group Is an informal weekly group for people for whom English is not their first language.  Volunteers prepare activities, assist participants with language skills and help them to become familiar with services and activities in the community.

Good listening and communications skills are required but no experience in teaching English necessary.

Positive Links

Positive Links is a club for people of a broad age range, who have experienced a stroke or other life changing medical condition.  Carers are also welcome to attend.Activities chosen by group members include gentle exercise, guest speakers, outings, and recreational games.

Volunteers assist in a supportive and practical way within the program.

BEST Club Volunteers

Is a weekly program for frail aged people and their carers. The program aims to help reduce social isolation.Activities include craft, lunch, outings, and gentle exercise.

Supporting People with a Disability

Volunteers assist younger adults (under 60 years) attending BCS programs.The focus is to work alongside individuals and support their independence and access to skills and community involvement.

Administration Support Volunteers

Volunteers can assist with articles or ideas for our regular web based stories and enewsletter.

Volunteers provide support with administration tasks including filing, data and statistical entry, development of flyers and associated tasks.

Other areas of Belconnen Community Service

Volunteers are involved in the areas of the Board of Management, issue-related committees, some childcare centres and other BCS projects.