Online Reading Volunteer

Doorstep Library is a community-focused charity dedicated to bringing the magic of books and the joy of reading directly into the homes of children across London and beyond who need our support.

Reading volunteers share the magic of stories with the same families each week in our online reading sessions.

Our volunteers don’t just read stories though; they do silly voices, handpick the books, and give special recommendations for each child. And, at the end of each term we gift a brand new selection of books to their homes for the families to keep. 
 
Through our long-term approach, our volunteers build trusting relationships with families, helping to connect them with the community and signposting to additional sources of local support. We are there to support children and families who need us most. 
 
You can volunteer on either a Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday during school term time starting at 4.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm. There are many holiday breaks throughout the year and volunteers are entitled to 2 absences per term. 

You volunteer with the same volunteer partner each week and read with 3 families for 20 minutes each on Zoom via our secure Doorstep Library dashboard.
 
You will be responsible for logging in on time, choosing books and preparing for the sessions with your regular volunteer partner. You will be reading with families at the agreed time and complete post-visit records in our portal after your sessions. 
 
You will be fully trained in all aspects of becoming a Reading Volunteer so that you feel confident before starting sessions with families. You will receive regular contact with Doorstep Library staff members so that you are fully supported throughout your volunteer journey, especially during your trial period. You can receive additional training opportunities to develop your skills. We celebrate and recognise your time volunteering with us. 

Skills

• Be able to make a regular weekly commitment during school term time of at least 9 months 
• Be compliant with our safeguarding procedures, complete an Enhanced DBS and Child Barred List check and provide two references 
• Enjoy spending time with children and believe in education for all 
• Have comfortable fluency in English 
• Be non-judgmental and respectful of a variety of lifestyles and children's learning 
• Have excellent communication skills - be able to listen to families and communicate efficiently