Emergency Response Volunteer (Hicks Gate Fire Station, Bristol)

When there is a fire, flood or severe weather, we’re among the first to respond. From making a cup of tea to trekking through snow and sleet to deliver the essentials, we work with other organisations to do what’s needed straight away. We are looking for volunteers who: - Can reach our vehicle base at Hicks Gate Fire Station (BS31 2AF) within 45 minutes. - Volunteer at least 2 x 12hour shifts (or 4 x 6hour shifts) per month on a 24/7 rota basis. - Commit to dedicating to a minimum of 12 months to volunteering. - Have held a manual driving licence for at least 2 years which allows you to drive in the UK. Have access to your own vehicle and be willing to drive a British Red Cross vehicle which is usually a large van, SUV or 4x4. - Regularly attend team meetings once a month. - Respond to emergency call outs in your local area, across the county and sometimes in support of larger incidents further afield. - Are available to undertake approximately 19 hours of required e-learning modules and Zoom/Teams training sessions in the first few months of volunteering plus other ongoing service specific trainings as required. - Are understanding that the inconsistent nature of emergency response work is necessary i.e. accepting that there will be occasions when you do not deploy to emergencies for long periods of time as opposed to other times you when you seem to be deploying more frequently. - Will be willing to support with equipment/vehicle maintenance (carrying out weekly/monthly checks) when required. - Conversational English language essential. Other language fluency also desirable. - Volunteers will need their own laptop/mobile phone. *Due to the nature of this role, applicants must undergo Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, so you must have the necessary 3 forms of identification.* Diversity is something we celebrate. We want you to be able to bring your authentic self to the Red Cross and feel that you belong. We want to create an inclusive environment, and promote and spread the power of kindness. As part of creating an inclusive space we have an expenses policy that prioritises volunteers not being out of pocket for expenses linked to your role. If up front costs are difficult, you can speak to your volunteering manager about this to find alternatives. We welcome refugees, asylum seekers and others currently in the UK to volunteer with us. We want volunteering to be accessible to everyone. **Health and Safety Statement** We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment and will also have a conversation with you to discuss and identify any adjustments you may need. If you have any questions before applying, please contact us at [[email protected]](url)
Why we want you: Working alongside the local emergency services every day, from house fires and flooding to power cuts and water shortages, the British Red Cross responds to an emergency almost every 4 hours. As an Emergency Response Volunteer, you will give people the support they need at a time they need it the most.

• Tasks: Respond to emergency call outs in your local area.
  
  Give emotional support to people and communities affected by an emergency.
  
  Give practical support such as distributing clothing, food or water after an emergency.
  
  Tell people where they can get extra support.
  
  Collaborate with local government or emergency services staff

• Skills: Warm and friendly.
  
  Calm and can follow processes under pressure.
  
  Good listening skills and ability to empathise.
  
  Can communicate in a calm manner.
  
  Able to act responsibly

• Benefits: Meet new people and be part of a dynamic and inclusive team.
  
  A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones.
  
  All training and induction for the role (there is no charge for training).
  
  Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses for the role including for attending training