Volunteer
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. We have volunteers of all ages, from different countries, with a wide range of skills and experience to share. This enables us to reach even more people and offer more varied and skilled support to our learners. Volunteers are supported in the ACE IT role by professional staff.
ACE IT have been awarded a Volunteer Friendly Award, which is Volunteer Scotland’s official accreditation that we are a great organisation to volunteer for!
We are always looking for new volunteers – scroll down to find out more and apply!
Why volunteer?
Helping other people to get the most out of the digital world is very satisfying. Volunteers encourage older people’s active involvement as citizens, for the public benefit and for their wellbeing. Tutors and learners build strong relationships and have fun together.
Volunteering with ACE IT can also provide valuable experience which may open up opportunities in employment or education.
What skills do volunteers need?
All our volunteers are confident with everyday digital devices, and some have advanced IT skills, but it is not necessary to have any formal qualification. The most important skills are patience and flexibility; to work at the right pace and to present information in a clear and simple way.
The Moose in the Hoose project is more about sharing experience than training, so Moose volunteers have a socialising and befriending role.
Our experienced and friendly staff are always on hand to give volunteers whatever support they need.
Volunteer roles
We have two types of roles:
One-to-one coach
Our one-to-one sessions run throughout the week at various different locations throughout Edinburgh. You will assist our learners in person with their device, and you will be given all the necessary training. All we ask for is a minimum two hour per week commitment, and prior knowledge of working with a computer, smartphone or tablet.
This role requires a disclosure check. To find out more, read the Role Description.
Moose in the Hoose coach
Moose in the Hoose volunteers attend care homes across Edinburgh once a week, between Mondays and Thursdays, to deliver fun and engaging activity sessions utilising digital devices and online services. This can include reminiscence activities, group quizzes or connecting with family and friends.
No professional qualifications are needed for this role, but confidence with everyday digital devices is a must, as is a passion for reducing loneliness among care home residents. Our experienced and friendly staff are always on hand to offer support when needed.
This role requires a disclosure check. To find out more, read the Role Description.
How do I become a volunteer?
We are on the lookout for new volunteers for both of the above projects. If you have time to spare, and can commit to a minimum of 3 months volunteering, get in touch and find out how you can help older people enjoy the benefits of the digital world.
Please fill out the below form to express your interest. If the embedded form does not work on your device or browser, find it here.
Volunteer stories
“I wanted to do something useful with my free time so I contacted Volunteer Scotland and they told me about ACE IT. I went to see a session at the care home and I knew it was for me. Now I go once a week and help the residents to use iPads and PCs. It is so satisfying; even people with quite a lot of problems can engage with the activities. The regulars love coming; they are often waiting outside 10 minutes before it is due to start! I enjoy seeing people gain confidence and self-esteem, and feeling more connected.”
“Now that I am retired from working in IT, I am pleased to be able to continue using my skills to help other people. The one to one sessions are great, because ACE IT matches people with volunteers who have the right expertise for whatever they want to do.”
