Chatty Café Volunteer
Summary
Chatty Café is an initiative that operates all over the world, bringing adults together for social conversation. Each session hosts up to 10 people for a chat over one hour and currently occurs in public spaces such as restaurants, cafés and libraries. Sessions are ideally assisted by a volunteer/s who can ensure easy and safe flow of conversation that encourages speaking as well as listening.
The program provides an opportunity for members of the community to make connections and develop social skills. Hume Libraries values this opportunity to improve social cohesion within the community and address the increasing prevalence of loneliness and isolation.
Volunteers may refer to conversation prompts suggested by the Chatty Café organization, or developed by Library staff or the volunteer. The volunteer should monitor the direction of conversation between participants and steer away from any controversial or offensive topics.
LIST OF TASKS:
As a volunteer you will be fully supported and get the opportunity to
- Help set up and pack up the Chatty Café space with assistance from Library staff
- Welcome participants to the group (where there might otherwise be apprehension)
- Encourage respectful conversation between attendees
- Ensure conversation flows with prompts where required
- Respect people’s unique perspectives and backgrounds, while also steering conversation away from controversial or offensive topics or behaviours
- Seek assistance from Library staff if required e.g. managing participant behaviour, directing to library services
Time Commitment - 1 hour per session
Requirements
- Successful interview
- Police Check is required (we cover the cost),
- Good communications skills- proficiency in English language, bilingual desirable
- Working with Children Check card with successfully organisation added to the card. (All volunteers need to have a current Working with Children Check before commencing, applications are free of charge for volunteers.
