Sessional Support Worker

Purpose of the Role

To support participants and the Sewing Tutor during heritage sessions, helping to create a safe, welcoming and enjoyable learning environment.

Main Duties

Session Support

• Help set up the room before each session.
• Prepare sewing materials and equipment.
• Support the Sewing Tutor during activities.
• Help participants with practical tasks where needed.
• Provide one-to-one support to participants when appropriate.
• Help create a friendly, welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Pack away materials and equipment after sessions.

Participant Support

• Welcome participants as they arrive.
• Help new participants settle into the group.
• Offer encouragement and practical support throughout sessions.
• Assist participants who need additional help.
• Inform the Programme Manager of any concerns about a participant’s wellbeing.

Practical Support

• Help prepare refreshments where required.
• Support participants with childcare, accessibility or language needs where appropriate.
• Help keep the learning space safe, clean and organised.
• Monitor stock levels of sewing materials and inform the Project Coordinator when supplies need replacing.

Supporting the Project

• Assist with public exhibitions and community events.
• Help prepare materials for activities.
• Support volunteers during project sessions.
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety, equality and confidentiality procedures at all times.

Person Specification

Essential

• Friendly and approachable.
• Good communication skills.
• Enjoys working with people from different backgrounds.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Able to work as part of a team.
• Willing to learn.
• Able to undertake light manual tasks, such as setting up rooms and moving equipment.
• Willing to undertake relevant training.

Desirable

• Experience supporting community activities or group sessions.
• Experience working with women or diverse communities.
• Knowledge of South Asian communities and cultures.
• Ability to speak Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, Mirpuri/Pahari or another relevant South Asian language.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and confidentiality.

Overall Aim

The Sessional Support Worker plays an important role in ensuring every participant feels welcomed, supported and able to take part fully in the project.

By helping sessions run smoothly and supporting participants throughout their journey, the role contributes to preserving the heritage, skills and stories of South Asian  women in Bradford.