Reporter Volunteer Role

Who are Midland Mencap?

Midland Mencap is a charity which works and campaigns for accessible and inclusive services and a better quality of life for everyone with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs. Volunteering with Midland Mencap is your opportunity to do something really positive, to have a great time, and help us achieve our vision.

Purpose of the role?

As a Volunteer Reporter, you will play an important role in giving people with learning disabilities visibility through media. You will gather, write, and share powerful stories that showcase our community’s achievements, highlight the challenges they face, and promote true inclusion. This role is perfect for anyone passionate about storytelling, journalism, and disability advocacy

What would I be doing?

• Gather Stories: Interview individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and our support staff to capture their unique experiences.

• Content Creation: Write engaging articles, blog posts, newsletter features, or social media updates.

• Accessible Reporting: Adapt your writing style to ensure content is accessible, using clear language and incorporating Easy Read principles where necessary.

• Event Coverage: Attend charity events, workshops, and campaigns to report on local activities and milestones.

• Collaboration: Work alongside our PR and Marketing team to align content with current charity campaigns and awareness weeks.

What do I need?

To be a volunteer you need to have

• Strong Communication: Excellent writing skills and an ability to speak warmly and respectfully with people from all walks of life.

• Empathy and Patience: A sensitive, person-centered approach to interviewing and building trust with individuals who have diverse communication needs.

• Reliability: Ability to work independently and meet agreed deadlines for article submissions.

• Digital Literacy: Basic experience using Microsoft Word, email, and social media platforms (experience with photography or video is a plus, but not required).

When and where do you need me?

• The time commitment required for the role can be flexible to suit your availability – Our events and activities happen across weekdays, evenings or weekends throughout the year

• Community hub venues and activities occur across Birmingham, Walsall & Coventry

• Head Office: Pinewood, Bell Heath Way, Woodgate Business Park, Birmingham, B32 3BZ

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities

• Any training and development that is needed

• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

• Support within your role

• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

• Positive wellbeing from doing something great

• Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV

What to do if you’re interested?

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For more information or an informal chat, call 0121 442 2944 and speak to someone about how volunteering could work for you.