Our website does not currently display well on mobile phones, please use a laptop or computer where possible or get in touch with any questions
Become a Volunteer!
Connected volunteers support people to live their best lives through pregnancy, birth & beyond through the delivery of safe & effective peer support.
Watch the video below to find out more
At Connected, our peer support is provided by members of the local community who are carefully trained to be able to safely use their lived experiences to support others throughout the perinatal period.
​What makes a good peer supporter......
-
Open & honest​​
-
Good communicator​​
-
Genuine​​
-
Authentic​​
-
Reflective​​
-
Non-judgemental​​
-
Committed​​
-
Respectful​​
-
Compassionate
What might you do as a Volunteer?
-
Provide one-one support - supporting families within their homes or at other locations
-
Facilitate community groups, including groups for Dads
-
Provide peer support on various wards at the Royal Derby Hospital
-
Provide labour and birth support
-
Spread the word of Connected at various community events & locations
What support do volunteers get?
-
All training is free of charge
-
Regular 1-1’s throughout training to explore options and personal goals
-
6-8 weekly supervisions when training is complete
-
Personal development support & planning
-
Support with access to other training opportunities
-
Opportunity to reflect on personal experiences
-
Previous volunteer evaluations show increases in confidence
-
References & support with job applications, further education and other external opportunities
-
Twice-yearly volunteer celebration events
-
Supportive cohorts and new friendships
-
All expenses are covered!
What is the criteria to become a Connected Peer Supporter?
Qualifications & Experience
You do not need any specific qualifications or experience to become a Connected volunteer. We do ask that where English is not your first language, you have a minimum of CEFR Level B2 in English (or equivalent), please get in touch if you are unsure around this requirement.
We love to embrace volunteers for who they are and look for people who demonstrate a kind and caring approach to the community around them.
​
Location Criteria
As most of our support is based in Derby, priority will be given to applicants who live in the Derby City area. If you live within 20 miles of Derby City (use DE1 1EQ) we can still consider your expression of interest. Unfortunately we cannot currently accept applications for anyone living more than 20 miles away. If you would like to be contacted if this changes in the future, you can send us a message here.
​​
Expressions of Interest
Spaces in each cohort are limited and we do have to shortlist so please ensure your expression of interest is as detailed as possible. We love to hear about your skills, strengths, qualities and experiences that have led you to express an interest in volunteering for Connected.
If you would prefer to complete the form over the phone or in person, or there any other barriers to you applying, please get in touch. It is important to us that our application, training and volunteering is accessible to all.
Interested? Get in touch!
Our next peer supporter training programme is due to start in Autumn 2025. Throughout the spring and summer we will be hosting a range of online and in person information sessions where you can find out more.
If the Connected volunteer opportunity is of interest to you and you would like to know more, you can use the contact us page to get in touch with questions, or to book onto an information session. Equally, if you would like to go ahead and express an Interest in becoming a volunteer, please click here.