Ireland Dublin European Solidarity Corps

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

The project will take place across seven residential services operated by Depaul. In each Host Project, the participant will be responsible for developing and leading a programme of fun and social activities which is complementary to the service provision delivered by the staff team. Six young people will have a quality volunteering experience which will enable their personal development in terms of soft skills, independent living and proficiency in the English language, allowing them to gain experience in the social care sector and explore new career possibilities in a supportive environment. The five host projects are: Sundial House; Orchid House; Back Lane; Peter’s Place; Tus Nua, Little Britain Street, Rendu Apartments. Please see the volunteering section of our website at: https://ie.depaulcharity.org/get-involved/volunteering, for further information and to download our application form.

ACCOMMODATION, FOOD AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS

Depaul provides accommodation for ESC participants in a safe, warm house in a residential area of Dublin city, amenable by public transport. Each participant has his or her own bedroom. The organisation keeps the house supplied with basics such as food staples and cleaning products, and food is available at some of the host projects. Depaul’s ESC participants receive weekly ‘pocket money’ to cover living expenses. All of the host projects are located within walking distance of the accommodation, with the exception of one; a travel allowance is made available for the volunteer in that case.

TRAINING DURING THE ACTIVITY

Depaul provides a thorough organisational induction for all participants, along with regular training throughout the placement. Participants learn about homelessness and addiction, low threshold and harm reduction practices, along with development of practical and interpersonal skills. Fire safety, manual handling and child protection form part of the suite of training made available, and participants will undergo presentation skills and project management development. Additional training is discussed during regular supervision and mentoring sessions, to identify specific needs.

PARTICIPANT PROFILE

Placements are open to applicants from participant countries, between the ages of 18-30. We look for participants who are highly motivated, and can bring their energy and enthusiasm to brighten the lives of our service users. Ideal candidates are adaptable, proactive and able to interact well with all types of people. We work with some very vulnerable people, so a certain resilience is required, and an ability to give and receive feedback effectively. No prior experience is necessary, but we would like you to consider how your knowledge, skills and experiences can form meaningful projects.

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