Welcome Volunteer Programme
The welcome volunteer programme is launching in 2024 and will first focus on welcoming cruise passengers to Southampton.
With the help of the new volunteer team, visitors will know where to go for the best experience of Southampton. This welcome will be personalised depending on the needs of the visitors.
If you are passionate about Southampton and like helping people, then give back to your community by positively adding to the welcome to the city. No prior knowledge needed, as full training will be provided. See below for more information.
ABOUT VOLUNTEERING
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From transferable life skills to enjoyable perks, there are many benefits to volunteering, and these often differ for everyone. Some of the benefits you could gain from the Welcome Volunteer programme include:
- Immersive Training: Enjoy Southampton tours and experiences as part of your training.
- Social Connections: Volunteer to get to know new people and build a sense of community.
- City Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge about Southampton, becoming a local expert.
- Fulfilling Experience: Contribute to making Southampton even more welcoming and positive.
- Confidence: Engaging with tourists can improve your people skills, fostering effective communication, empathy, and the ability to connect with diverse individuals.
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To join the Welcome Volunteer Program, all we need from you is your enthusiasm and a commitment to volunteer for 3 hours on agreed-upon days. Your time and passion for Southampton are the most valuable contributions. Additionally, we’ll ask you to attend a brief induction to help you feel prepared and confident in your role.
If you’re ready to make a positive impact on our community and warmly welcome cruise passengers to Southampton, we can’t wait to have you on board!
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You will be asked to commit to 3 hours, on the day(s) you have agreed. This volunteering can be flexible and we welcome a discussion on the times which suit you.
To prepare you for this time, we will also ask you to attend an induction. We also have training available for all volunteers. You will also be offered city tours, experiences and training, however this is completely optional.
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The Welcome Volunteer Program is designed to make your volunteering experience enjoyable and hassle-free. As a token of our appreciation, volunteers will receive a drinks voucher, allowing you to refresh and relax during your 3 hours of volunteering.
Additionally, to support your commitment to the program, travel expenses will be covered. We understand the importance of your contribution and want to ensure that you can focus on creating a warm welcome for cruise passengers without worrying about these incidental costs. Your dedication is valued, and we aim to make your volunteering journey with us as smooth as possible
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Yes, you will be given a Visit Southampton branded uniform, including a t-shirt and coat. Volunteers are requested to wear their own dark trousers. It is the responsibility of the volunteers to maintain their uniform.
You will also be provided with a branded umbrella, information cart and other branded materials during their volunteering, ensuring you are well-equipped and easily identifiable for welcoming visitors to Southampton.
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Expression of Interest
We currently have enough volunteers. If you would like to add your name to the waiting list, then please feel free to complete this expression of interest.
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Let us know you are interested in volunteering
Fill out the form below, or email volunteer@gosouthampton.co.uk and let us know that you are interested in volunteering with us.
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After letting us know that you are interested in applying, we will respond to welcome you for a telephone conversation, or in person meeting to discuss the programme. This will help to make sure it is the right fit for you.
After this informal discussion, if you will be joining the volunteer team:
- We will send you the sign-up forms to complete.
- We will have your Visit Southampton branded uniform prepared.
- You will be given information about Southampton.
- You will have an induction with other volunteers.
- Your first volunteer date will be booked in.
- You will be offered city tours and training.
- We will try to be flexible with all dates, working around your availability.
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Launching in April 2024, this programme will start small, concentrating on the Ocean Terminal arrivals. Provisional dates below. Timings to be confirmed, though are likely to be 8:30am – 11:30am.
Day Date Vessel Terminal Thursday 02/05/2024 AIDANova Ocean Monday 24/06/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 08/07/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 22/07/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 05/08/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 02/09/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 16/09/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Monday 30/09/2024 Mein Schiff 7 Ocean Thursday 03/10/2024 AIDAprima Ocean Thursday 07/11/2024 AIDANova Ocean Wednesday 04/12/2024 AIDANova Ocean Wednesday 11/12/2024 AIDANova Ocean