LGBT+ volunteer

Help us to build stronger LGBT+ communities in Kent

Roles available in Medway

The BeYou Project is a service for young people identifying as LGBT+ (who can struggle with their mental health and wellbeing). You'll be supporting them and also running activities which are geared towards supporting and building the LGBT+ community in Kent.

There is very little support across Kent for LGBT+ young people and we're determined to change this. At Porchlight, we have a long history of supporting homeless LGBT+ young people and we understand that everyone’s story is different.

The BeYou Project is our Kent-wide service for LGBT+ young people, which offers advice, guidance and safe, inclusive spaces that allow young LGBT+ people to express themselves in a supportive environment.

We also work with other agencies, schools, colleges and youth groups, delivering training on how to overcome unintended barriers and create LGBT+-friendly environments.

Our volunteer programme

The BeYou Project needs volunteers to work with 13 to 18-year-olds who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary or are questioning their sexual orientation and / or gender identity.

Could you help?

We’re looking for people who can give up a few hours each week to help staff a BeYou social group (safe spaces for LGBT+ young people to meet up). You’ll be offering advice to help young people address any concerns or worries relating to their sexuality, gender identity or expression. This involves:

  • Being someone LGBT+ young people can talk to about issues they are facing.
  • Helping them improve their confidence and self-esteem
  • Encouraging them to pursue their passions and develop their talents
  • Getting them involved with activities happening in the local area

What we need from you

  • Someone who can talk with, motivate and engage young people
  • You should have a good understanding of the issues LGBT+ young people face
  • We ask that volunteers undergo some training (provided by Porchlight)
  • Two references will be required and a DBS check will be undertaken

Application

To apply for this role please download and complete our application form and email it back to us at beyou@porchlight.org.uk

Benefits for you as a volunteer

  • You can help young people gain the confidence to move forward with their lives
  • You’ll receive training for the role
  • You will gain valuable experience of supporting young people
  • We will provide a reference for future work, study and
    volunteering opportunities