OUR AIMS: At Seaful, our aim is to connect people to our ocean & waterways for their wellbeing and mental health benefits and to drive a desire to protect them. In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, we believe this to be of urgent importance - not just for individuals but for our planet as a whole. www.seaful.org.uk
OUR VISION:
A world where people harbour meaningful connections with the ocean and its role in our lives,for human
wellbeing and a more resilient natural world.
OUR MISSION:
To deepen connections to our ocean and waterways through transformational experiences;to foster
environmental stewardship and empower and educate individuals and communities to become Ocean
Citizens.
Our free to access provision is for Ukraine refugees who would like to improve their mental wellbeing whilst learning new skills and advocacy for the ocean and waterways.
Role purpose: To support Lead SUP instructor with conducting SUP sessions over the high tide, the general smooth running of the session, with a focus on encouraging participation whilst feeling secure and heard.
Personal qualities and experience: Seaful volunteers are friendly and patient. They understand that some of the participants may have experienced traumatic events and they demonstrate strong listening and empathic skills and take an active role in building a supportive community.
Some experience of mental health can be useful. Similarly, some experience in other outdoor activities can also be helpful and volunteers must have a general aptitude for being out in all weathers. A willingness to learn and to be reliable is key, and communicating well in advance if unavailable for a session. Volunteers must be willing to work within guidelines and always follow confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
Supported by: Lead SUP facilitator & COO: Lorna Evans
Commitment: Thursdays 6pm-7.30pm 23rd May, 20th June, 22nd August, 19th September, Wednesday 16th October, possibly 25th July for a land based activity session.
Training: Online Induction training, including safeguarding briefing.
Tasks and activities
- Help kit up participants
- Conduct dynamic risk assessment with Lorna
- Help participants engage in the activity through positive role modelling
- Socialise with participants during the sessions, helping to generate a feeling of community support
- Tidy up and helping to pack kit away
In return, as a Seaful Volunteer, you will have the opportunity to:
- Be part of a friendly team and a supportive community
- Opportunity to add additional qualifications such as snorkelling
- Gain training and development as appropriate to the role, i.e. Safeguarding, mental health awareness, suicide prevention
- Basic expenses for each session