Hotel Advice Lead Volunteer

GARAS – Hotel Advice Volunteer (Hotel, Mondays)

Role Title: Hotel Advice Lead Volunteer

Location: Hotel in Gloucester

Day/Hours: 1 weekday morning 10:00am – 12:00 Tuesdays currently

Reports to: Ellen (Volunteer co-ordinator)

Purpose of Role:

To act as the Lead Teacher Volunteer for GARAS education sessions at the hotel, providing a friendly, supportive and organised presence within the class. The role supports asylum seekers and refugees to access learning opportunities in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. The Lead Teacher Volunteer will also support and coordinate other teaching volunteers to ensure sessions run smoothly and effectively.

Main Responsibilities

Welcome asylum seekers attending GARAS education sessions in a kind and respectful manner.

● Act as the Lead Teacher for the sessions, providing guidance, structure, and support to other volunteer teachers.

Assist clients to express their learning needs and support their engagement in education activities.

Support communication between learners and GARAS staff where needed.

Help and support other teachers and volunteers, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance.

● Help create and share teaching ideas, resources, and classroom support materials for the team.

● Create monthly teaching rotas and ensure all classes are appropriately staffed and covered.

Monitor class attendance and report attendance figures and key issues to the Volunteer Co-ordinator.

Ensure all classes are filled appropriately and highlight any gaps or concerns in staffing or attendance.

● Help learners access basic learning materials, forms, or online resources when appropriate.

● Maintain confidentiality and respect for all clients at all times.

Work as part of the wider GARAS team to maintain a calm, safe, and inclusive learning environment.

Keep simple records of attendance and any key issues raised, as directed by GARAS.

● Immediately alert GARAS staff to any safeguarding or urgent welfare concerns.

Skills and Qualities Needed

Friendly, patient, and approachable manner.

● Confidence in a class or group learning environment.

Strong organisational and coordination skills.

Good listening and communication skills.

Ability to support and guide other volunteers positively.

● Sensitivity to different cultures, languages, and experiences.

● Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Reliable, punctual, and responsible.

● Willingness to learn about asylum processes and GARAS services.

Support and Training

Induction and safeguarding training provided by GARAS.

● Ongoing supervision and support from the Volunteer Co-ordinator (Ellen).

Regular volunteer meetings and updates.

Opportunities to develop leadership and teaching skills.

Benefits

● Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people seeking safety.

Develop leadership, coordination, and teaching skills.

Gain experience in volunteer management and education delivery.

Become part of a supportive and dedicated volunteer community.