IVS-GB: Lothlorien Therapeutic Community

IVS-GB: Lothlorien Therapeutic Community

Dates: Flexible Start - Ongoing Project

Time commitment:12 months (6 months is also possible in some cases)

Approximate Location: Castle Douglas, Scotland

Project Description:

Lothlorien has developed an innovative alternative to mainstream approaches by providing the opportunity for people with mental health problems to develop their potential through living alongside people who are relatively well, in an atmosphere of friendship, acceptance and mutual support.

We aim to break down the distinction which frequently exists between those seen as ‘well’ and those seen as ‘unwell.’

Volunteers play a key role in this process by helping to create a culture of mutual support which facilitates residents in developing their strengths and allows them to see themselves as having something to offer as well as having something to gain from community life.

Work Description:

Wide variety of daily tasks from domestic chores such as cooking and cleaning to working in the vegetable gardens and grounds.

Working hours: Monday to Friday volunteers join in the weekly programme from 9.45am until 4.30pm. The day includes community meetings, work periods (maximum 4 hours per day) and therapeutic activities such as qigong, art, relaxation, social trips to local town. There is a one and half hour break at lunchtime and other short breaks throughout the day. Weekends are free time.

Requirements: Volunteers live at Lothlorien and along with all community members, participate in a wide variety of daily tasks from domestic chores such as cooking and cleaning to working in the vegetable gardens and grounds. It is not essential that volunteers have any special practical skills however those who do are encouraged to use them in ways that benefit the community. Although distinctions between volunteers and residents are minimised, the volunteers have a key role to play in the community in helping to create a positive atmosphere. the volunteers’ energy and example, everyone will be encouraged to participate to the best of their ability. As their role is essentially that of befriender, volunteers can also be involved supporting people at times of distress
Accommodation and Food:Own room, shared kitchen, bathrooms and living spaces. We provide vegetarian food and there are communal lunch and evening meals Monday through to Friday lunchtime. Community members prepare their own meals over the weekend periods. We can cater for special diets e.g. gluten or dairy free
Pocket Money: The hosting project pays per volunteer per week a pocket money of £45 GBP
Visa Info: You will need to apply to a Temporary Work (Charity Work) Visa. The application fee for the Visa is £310 GBP. To apply for this Visa you will need a Certificate of Sponsorship which will be provided by IVS at a cost of £55 GBP.
Insurance: As part of your Temporary Work (Charity Work) Visa, you will need to pay the NHS Immigration Health Surcharge if you are staying for more than 6 months which costs £1035 GBP. If you are staying for less than 6 months you will not need to pay the NHS tax.
Additional Information: As the post involves working with vulnerable young people, volunteers will need to obtain a letter or certificate of approval to confirm that they are fit to work with young people. Acquisition of this form of approval will vary from country to country. Holiday allowance at the three-month stage and contribution towards travel expenses to the community when you first arrive.