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Volunteer Centre  Role Details

Christmas Dinner Host & Helper

Hackney Christmas Dinner

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The Christmas Dinner was founded by Lemn Sissay OBE in 2013. Since then, there have been over 120 dinners in over 30 locations across the UK. They come together to provide a special and fun-filled Christmas Day for young adult care leavers aged between the ages of 18 and 25 who otherwise would be alone on Christmas Day.

Lemn Sissay says; ‘Many care leavers are sat in flats, B&B’s and hostels, away from family, or sofa surfing and some are indeed living on the streets on their own at Christmas. Christmas is a reminder of everything they never had… I know because I’ve shared their experiences… But since 2013, thanks to the work, effort and donations of many generous people we have hosted a scrumptious Christmas meal and created magical days to remember, at secret locations all over the UK. The Christmas Dinner is a life-changing and life-saving experience.’

On the day, our volunteer Hosts play a hugely important role in ensuring the day goes smoothly.

We’re looking for volunteers who are able to join us on Christmas Day to meet and greet our guests, to give out presents, to lead games and activities and many more little jobs along the way.

Hosts need to be prepared to muck in and get their hands dirty; they should be fun loving, generous and warm of spirit. We need people who are good and listening, but who can also sing and dance and make a lot of noise. We need people with skills that they can offer – from face-painting to beauty treatments, for photography to karaoke. Above all, Hosts need to be willing to work hard and turn their hand to anything – just like a host at any decent party!

Christmas Day Helpers will also get involved in the set-up and/or clear up of the event. Your role is vital to make the party happen. Please let us know the availability that you can offer on the day, when you sign up.

Note: You have to be 25 years of age to be a Host and all hosts will need to provide two independent referees who can vouch for their good character. If you have a younger family and would like to be involved, you can all help out on Christmas Eve.

Environmental,Support Work,Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Caring,Catering,Community Work,General and Helping

Art & Craft, Cleaning & Tidying, Creative & Design, Organising & Planning

Empathy and an understanding of young people. Background check required to volunteer with vulnerable adults. Must be 25 years old and over

This is an amazing opportunity to volunteer on Christmas Day with young people who would otherwise by alone at Christmas. You’ll meet other volunteers and you’ll volunteer directly with the young people – learning with them and from them! – it’s a feelgood moment and everyone should feel joy at Christmas.

2-4 hours on Christmas Eve. 12pm to 6pm on Christmas Day for Hosts. 8am to 6pm or 12pm to 10pm on Christmas Day for Helpers.

Further location details may be provided below.

Suze or Clare

The event takes place in Homerton E9. We will only provide the address once volunteers have completed a background check.

E9

The event takes place in Homerton E9. We will only provide the address once volunteers have completed a background check.

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Volunteer Centre  Application Process

Volunteer Centre  Support you will receive

The venue is wheelchair accessible and we have a designated safeguarding lead on premises at all times.

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Volunteer Centre  Role Type

Volunteer Centre  Suitable For

18+

Volunteer Centre  We Welcome

 We welcome and/or have the resources to support:

We particularly welcome volunteers who themselves have care experience and can empathise with the guests. We often welcome back previous guests of the Christmas Dinner as volunteers once they turn 25!

Volunteer Centre  Location

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