Vitalise Community Volunteers (VCV) is a new programme which aims to provide interesting and enjoyable opportunities to disabled people.

VCV offers you the chance to volunteer in your community, enabling local disabled people to access social, vocational and leisure activities.

Vitalise is beginning this pioneering new programme in Derby, so if you live in Derby, and are over 18, you might just be the person we need.

Why VCV needs you

Many disabled people want to enjoy the facilities that their local area has to offer – but can’t because they don’t have the practical help they need.

Today, there are more opportunities for disabled people who want to live an inclusive and independent lifestyle and participate in social and leisure activities. Some want to attend college, undertake training or work experience, or find a job. Many want to renew old friendships and make new friends.

As a volunteer with VCV you can make a huge difference by offering disabled people help and support.

How volunteers can help

VCV volunteers can support a wide range of activities, including practical, educational, vocational, social and leisure activities.

Volunteers do not give personal or medical assistance, although you may provide some physical assistance. Your main role is to be a buddy – to provide friendly social support to help someone to achieve their potential, enjoy life and become more confident and independent.

All volunteers will receive induction and training to enable you to carry out your role. We will attempt to find you the right placement so that both the volunteer and disabled person are happy with the match.

What do I need to be a VCV volunteer?

We welcome people from all sections of the community, but you must live in, or close to, Derby and be over 18 years of age. There is no upper age limit.

You don’t need special qualifications or skills, although particular hobbies or skills might be really useful.

Above all, we're looking for friendly people with a positive outlook who can bring a sense of fun and adventure to the tasks.

Get in touch!

If you think you can help, or if you'd like more information you can download our VCV information leaflet here.

Alternatively you can contact us by post or email.

Write to: Zoie Summers, Project Co-ordinator, VCV Vitalise, Rycote Resource Centre, Parker Street, Derby, DE1 3HF

Email the VCV team