Why join St John? St John is an incredible organisation that’s provided first aid work to this country and the other 40 countries worldwide, for over 140 years. It strives for Humanity, Excellence, Accountability, Responsiveness and Teamwork in every program, not exclusive to but including, youth work, adult volunteering, and vitally supporting the NHS.

We’re looking for Youth Helpers and Youth Leaders to support running sessions across Essex. You’ll start off as a Youth Helper and with some additional training you’ll get the opportunity to become a Youth Leader.

Youth Team Volunteers teach young people, of all different backgrounds, vital and life-changing first aid skills. We have two programmes – our 5-10 year olds are called Badgers and our 10-17 year olds are called Cadets in locations across Enfield. You’ll help them build up their confidence, self-discipline and, teamwork skills, and have some fun along the way.

Your role will be integral to the running of our cadet programme for young people. Working with your Unit Manager you will lead session plans under the Unit Manager’s direction, support young people to achieve their challenges, and strive to engage new members of the community in joining St John.

As a Youth Leader you will:
• Create a safe, inclusive and open environment, where young people can learn life skills including First Aid.
• Support the delivery of games, activities and sessions.
• Coordinate with your team to make sure young people are safe and supervised.
• Empower and encourage inclusion and participation of all the young people.
• Support the Unit Manager with administration, collecting resources, paperwork, etc.
• Lead, organise and support the preparation and delivery of programme in a fun way.
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all young people and adults in the unit.
• Manage the parent/guardian rota.
• Understand and apply all relevant policies, procedures, youth programme, content and role requirements in your unit.
• Completing all necessary training for the Youth Leader role.

Don’t worry – there’s lots of support on hand. Together with your induction to the role, you will have access to courses, (including first aid training) workshops and online learning to develop your management and leadership skills, and there are people who can offer support.

By volunteering with us, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the future of our youth, fostering resilience, compassion, and a commitment to service within our community.

Skills

Passion for Youth Development: An enthusiasm for working with young people and a genuine desire to help them develop their skills and confidence is essential.
Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively with young people, parents/guardians, and fellow volunteers is important to build positive relationships and ensuring clear understanding during sessions and activities.

Teamwork and Collaboration: A willingness to collaborate with other volunteers and support the overall goals of the youth program is important.

Empathy and Patience: Having empathy for the challenges young people may face and the patience to support them as they learn new skills are invaluable qualities for creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

Organisational Skills: Basic organisational skills to assist with session planning, resource management, and administrative tasks will help ensure the smooth running of youth activities.

Commitment to Safeguarding: A commitment to upholding safeguarding policies and procedures, ensuring the safety and well-being of all young people involved in the program, is paramount.

Open-mindedness and Inclusivity: Valuing diversity and being open-minded and inclusive in your approach to working with young people from different backgrounds and abilities is essential for creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected