Volunteer Session Support - Ensemble Unheard
Academy of St Martin in the Fields
Volunteer in our music sessions with people experiencing homelessness
We are looking for friendly, reliable and compassionate Volunteer Session Supporters to help create a safe, welcoming and positive environment during our music sessions for people experiencing homelessness. Volunteers are expected to take part in music-making sessions alongside participants, learning and creating music as part of the group and setting a positive example toward engagement. Ensemble Unheard is a new musical community of people from all walks of life who come together to create and perform as an orchestra alongside professional musicians.
Music
Art & Craft
This is a supportive participant-facing role where you will help people feel comfortable, encouraged, and included. You will play an important part in building an atmosphere where participants feel supported in engaging with music-making at their own pace. You will be expected to support a positive group environment and encourage people in line with our behaviour policy, helping to create a safe environment by reporting any concerns. Essential : • Over 18 years of age • Friendly, approachable and comfortable working with a wide range of people • Empathetic and non-judgemental attitude, with an interest in supporting people experiencing homelessness • Reliable and able to commit to agreed sessions • Willingness to take part in group activities, including music-making • Able to follow guidance and work as part of a team • Interest in or enthusiasm for music and creative activity Desirable (but not essential): • Experience playing a musical instrument, alone or with others • Experience volunteering or working in a community or support setting • Understanding of challenges relating to homelessness Additional Information: • We welcome applications from people with lived experience of homelessness • Volunteers will be required to hold or undertake an enhanced DBS check • Training will be provided, including safeguarding and session preparation • Ongoing support will be available from the project team
Volunteering with Ensemble Unheard offers far more than supporting a music session: it’s a chance to become part of a creative, generous and joyful musical community made up of people from all walks of life. As a Volunteer Session Supporter, you’ll gain hands-on experience working alongside professional musicians, develop new musical skills, and contribute directly to a programme that builds confidence, connection and belonging for people facing challenges. You’ll be welcomed into a supportive team, invited to training and development opportunities, and thanked with perks such as free tickets to Academy of St Martin in the Fields concerts throughout the year. Most importantly, you’ll experience the unique reward of seeing participants grow in creativity and self-belief, knowing your presence helped make that possible. We understand there are many reasons why someone may want to volunteer and are open to all. This role is also suitable for anyone looking to build experience in the social care or music sectors, or for those exploring volunteering as a pathway into future employment. It’s a meaningful, practical way to grow your skills while making a real difference, and references can be provided to support future applications.
Core sessions take place on Wednesday afternoons in 9-week terms throughout the year. Volunteers will usually be required from 13:30 – 17:00 on project days. We ask that volunteers are able to commit to at least six sessions per term to ensure consistency amongst the team.
W2 5QH
91-99 Westbourne Park Rd, London W2 5QH
Nearest tube: Westbourne Park Nearest bus stop: St Stephens Gardens
N/A
