Bake-Off – Volunteer role, Birmingham

Midland Mencap is a charity offering accessible and inclusive services to improve the quality of life for people with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs.

Volunteering with Midland Mencap is a positive opportunity to contribute to the community, have a great experience and help achieve the organisation’s vision.

People with a learning disability or additional needs are often isolated from mainstream leisure and social activities. We believe that EVERYONE has the right to have fun and feel safe. Our organised activity groups give participants the chance to make friends, enjoy social time together and try a variety of activities. These groups help to improve physical health, mental wellbeing and life skills.

We are looking for friendly volunteers to support our weekly Bake-Off activity. Citizens join a group cooking and baking session in our community centre hall, where they learn to bake biscuits, cakes, tray bakes and more, to eat and take home. Volunteers can use their baking skills to show simple recipes, encourage participation and help ensure everyone has a great time.

• Using baking skills to help participants make a variety of biscuits and cakes.
• Assisting participants with basic cooking and baking activities (measuring ingredients and following recipes).
• Encouraging participants to feel part of the group and take part in activities.
• Setting up equipment and tidying away at the end of the session.
• Maintaining a safe and welcoming environment.

• Basic cooking/baking experience
• Interest in helping people, approachable and friendly
• Good communication skills
• Respect for others and ability to work as part of a diverse team
• Willingness to learn and follow Midland Mencap guidelines
• Honesty, integrity and trustworthiness
• Good time management and reliability
• Aged 18+
• Enhanced DBS check may be required for successful applicants

The Bake Off session is usually once a week for 2–3 hours (Wednesday mornings, 10am–12pm). Attendance of 2–4 times per month is preferred.

Weoley Castle Community Centre, Bottetourt Rd, Birmingham B29 5TE

• Opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers
• Induction and settling-in period
• Any training and development that is needed
• Chance to develop skills and gain experience
• Meet new people and be part of a diverse team
• Support within your role
• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses
• Appreciation for your contribution