Office and Client Support Volunteer
BAKO Sanctuary C.I.C.
To provide a welcoming, organised, and safe presence at BAKO Sanctuary's premises, supporting the smooth running of client appointments, agency referrals, and day-to-day office operations. This role ensures clients are received with dignity and that administrative and front-of-house tasks are covered reliably, allowing the Director and casework staff to focus on direct support.
ROLE TITLE Office and Client Support Volunteer PURPOSE OF THE ROLE To provide a welcoming, organised, and safe presence at BAKO Sanctuary's premises, supporting the smooth running of client appointments, agency referrals, and day-to-day office operations. This role ensures clients are received with dignity and that administrative and front-of-house tasks are covered reliably, allowing the Director and casework staff to focus on direct support. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Welcoming clients and visitors to the premises in a warm, professional, and culturally sensitive manner • Supporting the booking and coordination of appointments for agency referrals • Light administrative tasks: filing, photocopying, preparing intake forms, managing the office diary • Answering and directing incoming calls and email enquiries appropriately • Ensuring the office and waiting area are tidy, presentable, and stocked with necessary materials • Reporting any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Director or designated safeguarding lead, in line with BAKO's safeguarding policy • Maintaining strict confidentiality regarding all client information at all times WHAT THIS ROLE DOES NOT INVOLVE • Volunteers will not be left alone in the building with a client present. A minimum of two people (which may include the Director, a Non-Executive Director, or another vetted volunteer) must be present at all times when clients are on site • Volunteers will not provide casework, advice, or guidance on legal, immigration, housing, or safeguarding matters unless specifically trained and authorised to do so • Volunteers will not be asked to work alone on a rota without a documented check-in arrangement TIME COMMITMENT Minimum commitment: Half a day per week (flexible by arrangement) Scheduling: Appointment-based cover, aligned to confirmed referral and client visit slots, not continuous drop-in hours Location: BAKO Sanctuary premises, 43 Bromham Road, Bedford REQUIREMENTS • Enhanced DBS check (BAKO will support and cover the cost of this) • Completion of BAKO's safeguarding induction training prior to starting • Warmth, reliability, and discretion when working with people in vulnerable circumstances • Basic IT literacy (email, simple data entry) • An understanding of, and commitment to, BAKO's Ubuntu-rooted, “by and for” community ethos WHAT BAKO OFFERS VOLUNTEERS • Full induction and ongoing safeguarding training • Reimbursement of agreed travel expenses • A reference for future employment or study, where service has been satisfactory • The opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a growing community organisation supporting Black African families across Bedford and Luton HOW TO APPLY Please contact Hazel Muza, Founder and Director, at info@bakosanctuary.org.uk with a short note about your interest and availability. All appointments are subject to references and a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Administration,Advice, Information & Support,Volunteer Management
Admin, Good IT Skills, Language Skills, Organising & Planning
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MK40 2AA
43 Bromham Road, Bedford
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