Promotion in Doncaster

Yesterday I spent most of the day at the 'Unity in the community' event, held at Doncaster Racecourse and organised by Doncaster Federation of Tenants & Residents Association.

Whilst getting up for such things (7:30am on a Saturday morning) seems a challenge, I'm really glad I went along as it was a fantastic, well organised and attended event. I didn't know what to expect as we had never been before. The hall was massive and there were dozens and dozens of organisations and agencies.

SAFE@LAST still isn't particularly well known in Doncaster, especially in comparison to our profile say in Rotherham or even Sheffield so it seemed an ideal opportunity to spread the word about our important services (helpline, MISPER project, prevention services and refuge) as well as gaining new supporters and volunteers. Unfortunately, I didn't get much of a response from our volunteers to help out - those that may have come along already had plans and to be fair, Doncaster is quite a way from many of our volunteers who live in Sheffield and Rotherham...all the more reason for recruiting a new team from Doncaster, I kept telling myself whilst getting out of bed on a saturday morning!!

It was definately worth it. Several people actually took volunteer application packs and others signed up to be on our mailing list or to receive more information about how they can get involved. I think I have finally perfected my 'pitch', even if I do say so myself, by drawing on my friends - "if you are the sort of person who would cry if you volunteered on the helpline, then perhaps helping out in the office or at our events, may be a better role for you" I tell them. It seemed to work and seemed to be at the right level and I've got lots of leads to follow up.

I've also been inspired by the work of Claire Walsh at Voluntary Action Sheffield who is currently recruiting for 'volunteer ambassadors', roles which I think would work for SAFE@LAST and help to address the difficulties of covering local stalls say in Barnsley or Doncaster, by recruiting and training local members of the community to take on these roles in their area.

Watch this space! If you would be interested in this, please let me know.