Refreshment support for ParkPlay Volunteer

ParkPlay is a free, community-led initiative that provides structured, inclusive games and activities in local parks every Saturday morning. The aim of ParkPlay is to bring people of all ages and abilities together to "Meet, Move, and Play", fostering happier, healthier communities through the joy of active participation and social connection. It offers a relaxed, pressure-free environment for fun and physical activity.

We are seeking volunteers to assist and support 2 activity Playleaders in providing a safe, welcoming environment for ParkPlay families. To help with the setting up and down of ParkPlay on the recreation ground behind Coppins Hall Community Centre. To prepare and serve refreshments provided for families that attend during the last half hour of the ParkPlay session. To help promote the great benefits of attending ParkPlay.

What skills do I need?

Essentially, you're looking for individuals who are organized, helpful, friendly, and reliable, with a willingness to contribute to a positive community experience. Formal qualifications aren't typically required, but a good attitude and common sense are key.

1. Practical/Logistical Skills:

•         Organization: Being able to help lay out equipment efficiently, keep refreshment supplies tidy, and pack everything away systematically.

•         Physical Ability: Some light lifting (e.g., of equipment boxes, refreshment coolers) and movement around the park will be involved.

•         Time Management: Arriving on time for setup and being efficient with tasks to ensure everything is ready for the session and packed away promptly afterwards.

•         Basic Food Handling & Hygiene: Understanding basic hygiene for serving refreshments (e.g., handwashing, covering food). For more extensive refreshment provision, food safety training might be beneficial.

•         Problem-Solving: Being able to adapt if something isn't where it should be, or if there's a minor issue with the setup.

•         Resourcefulness: Making the most of available resources and perhaps improvising if needed.

2. Interpersonal/Soft Skills:

•         Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with PlayLeaders and other volunteers to ensure smooth operations. This includes good communication and a willingness to help where needed.

•         Friendly and Approachable Demeanor: Creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, especially when serving refreshments. A smile and a friendly word go a long way.

•         Initiative: Being proactive in offering help with setup or takedown, or noticing if a refreshment station needs attention.

•         Patience: With the nature of a family event, things might not always go exactly to plan, so patience with children and adults is important.

•         Observational Skills: Noticing if families need help, if refreshments are running low, or if something in the setup needs adjusting.

•         Enthusiasm: Contributing to the positive and playful atmosphere of ParkPlay.

•         Reliability and Punctuality: Crucial for ensuring that the setup and refreshment provision are ready when needed and that the PlayLeaders have the support they expect.

•         Safety Awareness: Being mindful of safety during setup and takedown, and around the refreshment area, especially with children present.

Interests

• Children
• Civic Responsibility and Communities
• Families and Parenting
• Fitness and Sport
• Young People

Activities

• Practical Skills
• Supporting Charities
• Supporting People and Befriending