Cathedral Welcomers Volunteer Role Description

S O U T H W A R K C A T H E D R A L

About Southwark Cathedral Southwark Cathedral is an inclusive Christian community growing in orthodox faith and radical love.

The marks of our community are:  Confidence in God and the Gospel  Passion for those on the edge of society  Engagement in vibrant theology and teaching  Prayerful service of our Bishop and Diocese  Love for London and the world

What is a Cathedral Welcomer Volunteer?

The role of a Cathedral Welcomer is to present the 'human face' of the Cathedral and provide a warm welcome to all our visitors. Working as part of a team, they are the point of reference for information and help.

What would you do?

 Welcome visitors into the Cathedral, explaining the code of conduct that we expect visitors to adhere to.

 Deal with enquiries from visitors, e.g. giving directions to the registration point for tour leaders / guides

 Promote the sale of Cathedral Guidebooks and other material that may be available on the Welcome Desk.

 Encourage visitors to make voluntary donations in the collection boxes designated for such purposes.

 Encourage visitors to visit the Shop, and Refectory.

 Ensure that those visiting the Cathedral are respectful of its main purpose of existence.

 Handle money from the sale of Cathedral guide books and visitor leaflets.

 Cover the welcome desk as and when needed.

Application process

 Potential volunteers are asked to complete a short application form.

 Invitation to attend an informal chat where potential volunteers will have the opportunity to ask questions.

 A recruitment decision will be made and if successful references will be requested before a start date is agreed. - 2 - Who we are looking for?

While no formal qualifications are needed for this role, we do ask that volunteers have the following skills and personal qualities:

 An outgoing personality, ready to engage with visitors.

 An awareness of the needs of others together with the ability to work within a team.

 A flexible approach as situations change daily.

 Knowledge of other languages would be of great benefit to communicate with the diverse group of visitors but is not essential.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all volunteers and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

What would you gain as a volunteer?

As a volunteer with Southwark Cathedral, all volunteers gain:

 The opportunity of supporting a historic London Landmark.

 Experience of working in tourism.

 Improve your public engagement skills.

 Use your language skills.

 Invitations to cathedral events.

 Discounts in the Cathedral Shop and Refectory.

 References for paid jobs and other voluntary roles will be offered to volunteers who commit at least three months of volunteering.

Support offered

Ongoing support will be offered by the Volunteers Officer

Other useful information

 Individuals are asked to commit to either a half-day or whole day, weekly or fortnightly, working with others on a rota basis.

 Induction and Training on safety and security issues will be provided.

 Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

 We would like volunteers to commit to at least one shift per week for a minimum period of three months.

For further information please contact our Volunteers Officer: Michelle Ford

Volunteers’ Officer Southwark Cathedral London Bridge London SE1 9DA Telephone: 020 7367 6749 Email: [email protected] - 3 -