Reader Leader
We are looking for volunteers to become Reader Leaders to set up and to run a weekly (or monthly) shared reading group.
Reader Leaders read aloud slowly and pause to ask open questions, gently facilitating discussion.
We provide social inclusion to those who may experience loneliness.
The elderly, people with disabilities, rough sleepers and many others may not have access to physical/digital social networks that provide meaningful connections with others.
Response from a participant: "It's like family here isn't it!"
You can also be a support person for a group - which does not require Read to Lead training. You will team up with a trained Reader Leader and they will guide you as to the support required for that community. Examples could range from taking notes on the session or making cups of tea!
Reader Leaders are supported by peers and a mentor.
Ideal candidates will be reliable, patient and kind, have a love or reading and want to build a sustainable relationship with their shared reading communities.
Many of our participants are vulnerable in different ways, they may have physical or mental disabilities, or experience hardships or instability.
Shared reading is something they rely on for a ray of sunshine in their week! :)
As the volunteer will come into contact with vulnerable people a Police Check will be required.
Weekly shared reading sessions last around 90 minutes and prep time is spent familiarising yourself with a story and poem to read each week.
Training is currently delivered via 6 workshops over Zoom, two per week usually on Tuesday and Thursday mornings 9am-1pm.
We are currently looking for team members for Summerset Villages & to support existing groups :)
If you have a new community you wish to serve we are open to supporting you to do this too!
Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
Social Support