About the organisation

Merchants Quay Ireland is a national voluntary organization that helps people who are homeless and those caught in addiction. We provide frontline services, practical supports, pathways towards recovery and innovative responses to the issues of drug use and homelessness in Ireland, working with a harm reduction ethos.as a collaborative community to reduce the harm caused by addiction and homelessness.

Our mission is to offer people dealing with homelessness and addiction in Ireland, accessible, high-quality quality and effective services, which meet their complex needs in a non-judgemental and compassionate way.

Our Vision - An inclusive society that supports the integration and well-being of all.

We believe in a just society where no one has to face homelessness or addiction alone, and where everyone has the support they need to reduce the harm caused by homelessness and addiction and to build a better life; an inclusive society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Our Values

Collaboration - We work together (Professionalism, Teamwork, Adaptability)

Compassion - We meet people where they are (Acceptance, Commitment, Support)

Courage - We speak up, challenge & advocate (Integrity, Respect, Diversity)

Why volunteer with MQI?

As a volunteer with MQI you will have a unique opportunity to experience our work and to engage and work to support people dealing with homelessness and addiction.

• Merchants Quay Ireland was originally staffed entirely by volunteers, who have contributed highly to the overall success of the organisation.
• Volunteers play a very important role within the organisation; their involvement is encouraged and supported whenever possible.
• Merchants Quay Ireland offer clearly defined roles with full training and supervision provided.
• Merchants Quay Ireland provide financial assistance to cover public transport travel costs incurred travelling to and from the service, when supported by receipts.
• The volunteer will support the Project Worker team. It involves working on the floor and interacting with clients, creating a welcoming and safe environment.
• Rewarding and challenging work as part of a team.
• Annual social events to acknowledge and recognise your contribution.
• MQI provides role appropriate training to our volunteers e.g. GDPR training and induction.

Our Befriending Volunteer will support the our Project Worker team in supporting  to our clients. This role involves working with the MQI team in High Park Residential Service and interacting with clients, creating a welcoming and safe environment.

We currently need Volunteers for the following 6 hour shifts, 1 or 2 days a week, who can commit to volunteering for a 6 to 12 months duration.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

The first responsibility for new volunteers will be to read and if you agree sign the Volunteer Agreement and code of conduct. There after we will ask you to spend time getting to know the Service and our Clients . You will be supported in this through the MQI induction and volunteer training modules.

• Welcome clients into the service.
• Assist clients to access meals and services.
• Assist team members to keep tables cleared and cleaned.
• Engage with clients in a friendly way, play boardgames or assist them in tasks as required.
• Comply with food hygiene regulations with regard to food service equipment cleaning and departmental cleanliness.
• Maintain high personal hygiene standards.
• Comply with Health and Safety regulations.
• Adhere to HACCAP and all other necessary training.
• Report faulty equipment.
• Participate as a team member.
• Help fulfil Merchants Quay Irelands aims and objectives
• Perform volunteer duties to the best of one’s ability
• Adhere to the signed volunteer agreement
• Develop working relationships with clients.
• Assisting in day to day running of service
• Attend organisation support and supervision sessions meeting as requested by your supervisor
• Comply with all administration, filing and paperwork requirements in the service
• Adhere to the organisations boundaries and confidentiality policy in all interactions with MQI’s clients.
• Adhere to the organisations Code of Conduct

General Volunteer Skills:

• Volunteers should be empathetic, non-judgemental, patient, and supportive towards others.
• Reliable, flexible with a willingness to get involved and help out.
• The ability to engage and motivate individuals in a gentle manner.
• Volunteers need to be open to learning new skills and trainings.
• All volunteers will require Garda clearance through MQI for this position.
• Volunteers are required to produce two references.
• To volunteer with MQI you must be at least 18 years of age .

Location:

High Park, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Merchants Quay Ireland provide financial assistance to cover public transport travel costs incurred travelling to and from the service when supported by receipts.