Bike Volunteer at the Social Bite Village

Location: Social Bite Village, Granton
When: Daytime, preferably weekends
Time Commitment: approximately 2-4 hours a week

Contact: 23 West Shore Road, Granton, EDINBURGH, EH5 1QB, 0131 600 0084.

Overview 

The Social Bite Village in Edinburgh is an innovative, supported community for up to 16 people affected by homelessness. The purpose of the Village is to offer the right support, living environment and opportunities for someone from a situation of homelessness to build an independent life.

The Village is made up of 10 houses– each shared by two residents plus an additional unit for staff. There is also a large, central Community Hub, which is the focus of community life – where residents can cook, eat and socialise together.

Activities such as cycling, Diy skills, gardening, Art and cooking are on offer at The Village and can help the community to have fun, lead a more active and healthier lifestyle and to regain skills that can be useful in the future.

Why we need you and what activities are involved

We are looking for a bike volunteer to support residents and residential volunteers to look after and make best use of the bikes. We are seeking involvement from a volunteer with interest in bikes and cycling to assist with weekly maintenance checks on the bikes with the ability to do basic bike maintenance. Experience of E-bikes would be very useful. Also, a willingness to ride or transport bikes to repair shop if required. Potentially, the volunteer could go on small group excursions with residents and volunteers.

Suitable applicants should have an enthusiasm for cycling, basic bike maintenance knowledge, in particular e-bikes and a willingness to share their interest. Volunteers should have a good awareness of safe cycling and responsible road use.

This role will suit volunteers who have a few spare hours at regular times and has a good understanding an understanding of the basics of bike maintenance and the ability to undertake small repairs.

Skills we’re looking for

• Good listening and communication skills
• Reliable with good timekeeping
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with vulnerable people
• Able to work within set boundaries
• Enthusiasm for cycling
• Acceptance and respect
• Friendly personality
• Empathy/Patience
• Interest in social issues
• Ability to use initiative and be proactive
• Able to commit to regular weekly or fortnightly sessions.

Essential Criteria

• Ability to ride a bike confidently
• Knowledge of basic bike maintenance
• Knowledge of e-bike maintenance
• Should have a good awareness of safe cycling and responsible road use.
• PVG Scheme Membership (organised by Cyrenians, no fee)
• 18+

What you can gain from this opportunity

• Rewarding experience making a positive contribution to young people's lives.
• Connect with new people and make new friends
• Gain work or study experience or try new things 
• Personal development with training and ongoing support provided

Expenses

We cover local travel costs at public transport rate or mileage (45p per mile) and out of pocket expenses.