Volunteer Centre Hackney supports around 400 local charities and organisations to recruit local residents as volunteers. Based on Kingsland Road, Hackney Pirates one of these charities. An educational charity, the team support young people aged 9-13 to develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance that will help them achieve both in school and the world beyond.
The Pirates welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, and volunteers don’t need to have any previous experience of working with children – just enthusiasm and an interest in supporting local young people. Volunteers lead either one-to-one sessions or small group work, with full training provided. VCH heard from 2 of their current volunteers about their experiences.
Monifah 
Monifah is a second-year student at King’s College London studying Literature. She was looking for volunteering opportunities, having worked with younger students at sixth form. Monifah says the flexibility allows her to balance volunteering with university and other commitments.
The best thing about working with the young pirates, though, is that “they can teach you just at much, if not more, than you teach them!”
Simon 
Simon is a theatre-maker, writer and researcher, teaching in the Drama department at the University of Roehampton.
After seeing his son struggle with severe dyslexia, Simon understands the importance of “lots of one-to-one attention in a structured but friendly and creative environment”
Simon says working with the pirates can be “surprising and inspiring, and I’ve had some very thought-provoking conversations about topics ranging from the future of Hackney to the end of the universe!”
Hackney & Haringey Pirates are opening a new space in Haringey, and are seeking new volunteers – called Crewmates – in both Hackney and Haringey.
Read more about the role here and register to get on board!