We would love to hear from anyone interested in taking a lead with our Mental Health Champion programme. We would welcome applications from across the wider Fitmums and Friends network as remote working is possible for this role.  

Read on for more details but if you want more information please email welfare@fitmums.org.uk or call Bridget 07425 143835 or Wendy 07941 498949. Please send expressions of interest for this role by 1st August 2021 to welfare@fitmums.org.uk explaining why you would like the role and what experience/qualities you have to give to this position. If you would like a copy of the role description please just email as above.

OUTLINE ROLE

We are seeking a volunteer to be an overall Co-ordinator of the Mental Health Champions (MHCs).

A Mental Health Champion is a designated club member who takes action to raise awareness of mental health and challenge stigma. Their role is to promote positive mental health and to signpost to relevant support and help, where appropriate. Our MHCs are scattered across the whole Fitmums and Friends network. We would like a Co-ordinator to help manage and organise this invaluable group of volunteers.

This role sits within the welfare structure of Fitmums and Friends. The Co-ordinator post is directly supported by the Overarching Welfare Leads (OWLs) - Bridget & Wendy. 

Requirements for the role of Mental Health Champion Co-ordinator

• Must be a member of Fitmums and Friends (or willing to be).

• Have an open and non-judgemental attitude.

• Adopt a positive, patient and supportive approach towards supporting people with mental health problems.

• Be a positive role model.

• Behave in a professional, confidential, and non-discriminatory manner at all times and promote equal opportunities for all.

• Have good people skills – able to manage, support and motivate a team of volunteers.

Mental Health Champion Co-ordinator - Self Care

The role of any volunteer is hopefully rewarding but can also be challenging at times. It is essential therefore that the utmost importance is placed on their own health and wellbeing, and to prioritise it at all times. In the event of any issues it is important that volunteers let their supervisor know.

There may be occasions when a volunteer may need to take a break from their role, this could be due to mental health or physical health problems or other personal reasons. The need to step back from the role may be determined by the individual themselves, or by another member of the team. A decision would only be taken when it is viewed that there is likely to be an enduring or significant impact on relationships in the club or for individual members.

We understand it is not always possible for an individual to see that a break may be in their best interest, but a decision to step back temporarily or permanently would be discussed with the individual concerned prior to taking further action. It is essential that if a break from being in a volunteer role is needed it must be taken. We value our volunteers a great deal and as an organisation wish to ensure that they are supported as much as those they are trying to support.

Welfare

The Fitmums and Friends Welfare structure is essential to ensure good and safe practice within club settings, sessions and programmes to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants, athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers.