Many ASSIST clients have to report regularly in person to the Home Office building in Sheffield City Centre (Vulcan House). When they do this, they are at risk of being detained indefinitely in an Immigration Removal Centre. Volunteer accompaniers cannot prevent someone from being detained, but they can ensure that ASSIST and other emergency contacts are informed, and can respond immediately.
Some clients also ask for support with accessing services in different locations around the city, and an accompanier can enable this by going with them, on public transport where necessary.
What skills do I need?
Understanding of, and willingness to work with, diversity and cultural difference
Reliable in making arrangements and sticking to them e.g. arriving at the time and place agreed.
Willingness to be flexible e.g. if the client is late.
Good verbal communication skills
Comfortable using a mobile telephone and texting (helpful if the volunteer has their own telephone; expenses for calls can be charged to ASSIST.)
Competent IT skills, and willingness to learn ASSIST systems, including Google Drive and Civi database.
Ability to work on your own
Ability to speak a community language is helpful
What will I gain?
Knowledge of the system at Vulcan House (UK Visas & Immigration); what to do if a client is detained.
The basics about the UK asylum system, and the experiences of asylum seekers
ASSIST client pathway, and how the different ASSIST teams work
How to use ASSIST Civi database
Training and support
Intro to ASSIST
Safeguarding and Boundaries
Confidentiality and Data Protection
ASSIST casework training
Use of CIVI database
Time commitment
Daytimes on a regular schedule, different days/times available.
9 month minimum time commitment.
DBS (criminal records) check
Yes
Location
Vulcan House and other locations around Sheffield; ASSIST office.
Travel information
ASSIST is located at Victoria Hall Methodist Church on Chapel Walk, off Fargate.
To reach the offices from the Sheffield Students' Union travel down West Street, on foot or by bus / tram, or Division Street on foot. Carry on onto Fargate, and before you reach High Street go left down Chapel Walk