Peer Support Volunteer (MOT Group)

Could your lived experience help another parent or carer feel understood, supported and hopeful about the future?

Children First is Scotland’s national children’s charity. We stand up for children, keep them safe and support them to recover from trauma and abuse through our national and local services. Our Midlothian Family Wellbeing Service supports families affected by challenges such as substance use, poor mental health, poverty and social isolation.

We're looking for compassionate volunteers with lived experience of addiction, trauma and/or mental health difficulties or supporting a family member through these experiences. Your understanding, insight and encouragement can help people feel supported, less isolated and more able to manage the challenges they face.

This volunteer role will support the MOT Group within the Midlothian Service. The group provides a welcoming and supportive space where parents and carers can connect with others, take part in activities and build a sense of community. Through supportive relationships and shared experiences, the group helps people build confidence, reduce isolation and feel more connected to their local community.

What will I be doing?

Working alongside Children First staff, you'll help create a safe, inclusive and trauma-informed environment where people feel respected, listened to and supported.  You'll play an important role in making the group sessions welcoming and ensuring they run smoothly and may be involved in:

• Welcoming people to the group and help them feel comfortable and included
• Building positive relationships and encouraging participation
• Offering encouragement and support during activities
• Helping with practical tasks such as setting up, preparing refreshments and tidying up
• Supporting people to overcome barriers to attending sessions
• Sharing ideas and feedback to help shape and improve the group.

Please see the role description below for more information

What do you need from me?

Because this is a peer support role, relevant lived experience is essential. We're looking for people who feel ready to draw on their own experiences to build trust, offer encouragement and support others facing similar challenges. You'll be someone who:

• Has relevant lived experience of addiction, trauma and/or mental health difficulties or supporting a family member through these experiences and feels able to use it positively to support others
• Is compassionate, respectful and non-judgemental
• Can build positive relationships and communicate well
• Has an understanding of some of the challenges children, parents and carers may face
• Shares Children First's values
• Is reliable and willing to learn and develop in the role
• Is aged 18 or over      

Volunteers are required to be members of the PVG Scheme for this role.  This will not cost you anything and we will support you to apply for this.

How much time will I need to give?

Building trusting relationships takes time, so we're looking for volunteers who can commit to the role for at least 12 months and are usually available on Wednesday mornings on a weekly or fortnightly basis from 9.00am to 1.00pm.

What will I get from volunteering?

Volunteering with us is more than just giving us your time, we want you to benefit from it as well. You'll have the opportunity to use your lived experience in a meaningful way, helping others while recognising the strengths, resilience and insights you have gained through your own journey. You'll gain experience of supporting people through challenging situations, work as part of a skilled team and build confidence that can benefit both your personal and professional life.

What training and support will I get?

We'll make sure you feel confident and well supported throughout your volunteering journey and you'll receive:

·       Around eight hours of initial volunteer training before you begin volunteering which will take place in November 2026 (exact dates TBC)

• Two additional training sessions during your first few months
• Ongoing support from a named member of staff
• Opportunities for reflection, learning and development throughout your time with us.

You'll be volunteering alongside Children First staff and will never be expected to do this alone. We'll support you to use your experience safely and positively in a way that feels comfortable for you.

We'll also reimburse agreed out-of-pocket expenses, so volunteering shouldn't cost you anything. 

What do I need to do next?

Sometimes knowing you're not alone can make all the difference. If you'd like to help create that sense of connection for others, we'd love to hear from you.

Please contact us for an informal chat about the role: volunteer@childrenfirst.org.uk