The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme (DofE Award) is an international youth achievement award and opportunity for young people aged 14-25. It is a fantastic way to demonstrate commitment, communication, leadership and team work which will support future applications for college, university, jobs and apprenticeships.
West Sussex Library Service can support the Volunteering and Skills sections of the DofE Award. By choosing to complete one of your DofE sections with the Library Service you will have the opportunity to develop practical and social skills, gain confidence, learn how to rise to a new challenge and be the very best that you can be.
You can usually complete your volunteering or skills sections at one of our larger libraries. Please apply early as DofE opportunities are very popular and numbers at each library are limited.
General description of duties
To complete your DofE Award in a West Sussex Library you will aim to make a difference by helping people, the community or society. You will regularly commit to an activity over a period of time to help to provide an effective library service to the local community. You can use this opportunity to become involved in a variety of different library routines that will help improve and develop your practical and social skills.
West Sussex Library Service provides a range of opportunities to support the Volunteering or Skills sections at Bronze level (three or six months) or Silver level (six months). We do not currently support the DofE award at Gold level (12 months).
Regularity of duties
For your Bronze and Silver levels, you must complete your activity with a regular time commitment of an average of one hour per week. The minimum is three months and the maximum is six months. There is some flexibility for family holidays and/or illness with agreement from your DofE leader or Library assessor.
Details of duties
There are lots of different library activities that you could get involved with for your DofE volunteering and skills sections. However, this is an opportunity for you to research and decide what you would like to achieve and develop an idea that is specific and relevant to you. Activities can vary depending on the size of the library, availability and time of year. Library staff can offer support and guidance and we have a sheet of ideas to get you started. Please speak to your leader to plan and think about your activity before you start.
Ideal volunteer
We are looking for young people who are committed and motivated to:
- help people
- make a difference in their local community
- learn and develop new skills
- work well as part of a team
- communicate and engage with a range of different people and age ranges
- be organised and on time
- work with minimal supervision
- be patient and understanding
- commit to the equality and diversity of the local community
- have a positive attitude.
Guidance and support
You will have a named library assessor who can provide support and information throughout your volunteering.
Training and equipment
Basic induction training will be given, including health and safety, and staff support will be available in the library during volunteering sessions.
References and Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS)
As part of the application process, you will be asked to provide the contact details of your DofE leader who we will contact for a reference before you start.
Those applying for this role will not be asked to complete the DBS process.
Other information
DofE volunteers will be required to wear a volunteer lanyard and ID badge while in the library.
If you are under 18, we will complete a Young Person’s Risk Assessment which will need to be signed by a parent or guardian before you start.
To find out more visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries or contact your local library.