In the run-up to the ‘Big Help Out’ on 8 May and Volunteers Week in early June, Beyond Detention is putting a call out for volunteers to join their team.
Beyond Detention provide emotional and practical support to people held in immigration detention at Yarl’s Wood Immigration Removal Centre.
The charity continues that support when those people are told they can stay in this country.
While in detention, the charity provides regular befriending visits and phone calls, essential to those who have no family or friends nearby to visit them.
Weekly drop-in sessions are also organised for a much-needed chat, a game of cards, to practice their English or to order some essential clothing or mobile phone top-up.
“The time our volunteers give to the residents during these sessions is invaluable in terms of the positive effects on a resident’s wellbeing, I can see how much they really benefit from us being there,” said Donna-Louise, CEO of Beyond Detention.
Post-detention, volunteers provide essential 1:1 emotional support, guidance and signposting to other organisations for support.
They also help those in financial hardship by providing practical support such as devices, sim cards, mobile & data top-ups and supermarket vouchers.
“Our post-detention volunteers are vital, providing an essential lifeline for those rebuilding their lives after detention,” added Alina a coordinator in the support team.
A big focus for the charity at this time of year is volunteer recruitment, they are looking for people who want to volunteer in a variety of different roles:
- Drop-In volunteers and Befrienders with the team who support people at Yarl’s Wood IRC
- Befriending and Casework volunteers with the team who support people post-detention
- Support volunteers, based in the Bedford office to assist the team with practical tasks
Beyond Detention welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds and experiences, including those with lived experience of immigration detention and people who are refugees.
If you would like to hear more about volunteering opportunities, please register for an information session at the charity’s website.
