Outlookers (formerly Kirklees Visual Impairment Network)  is a network of staff, volunteers and service users who help break down stereotypes of people with sight loss and encourage them to reach their full potential. We offer emotional support, guidance and friendship as well as providing peer support to help people with visual impairments learn to effectively use and make the most of technology such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home and various apps for phones and tablets.
As the charity is user-led, it is run by people with visual impairments and is a real lifeline for people who think they have to give up doing all the things they like due to sight loss.

Outlookers is a member led organisation that runs support services throughout Kirklees for people with visual impairments. Our aim is to enhance the lives of visually impaired people through promoting the benefits of peer support and the use of technology to aid independence

Location: Office LG9, Brian Jackson House, New North Parade, Huddersfield, HD1 5JP

Commitment: Alternating Mondays, 2pm-5pm

Reports to: Laura Gibbins, Volunteer Coordinator

Role Overview:

The Media Group Facilitator will be responsible for guiding a team of visually impaired service users and volunteers to create, curate and produce media content across various platforms. The facilitator will provide visual assistance, oversee content quality and help ensure the media produced aligns with the organisation’s mission and goals. Collaborating with other members of the team to enhance accessibility, creativity and professionalism in all media outputs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome and support group members, ensuring everyone has refreshments and suitable space to use the technology available.
• Assist with visually demanding tasks such as graphic design, video editing, photo selection and other creative aspects.
• Facilitate the collaboration between sighted and non-sighted team members, ensuring inclusivity and smooth workflow.
• Review media content for quality, accuracy, and compliance with the organisation’s brand guidelines.
• Support team members with accessibility needs by describing visual elements and offering feedback on visual media components.
• Manage media files, equipment and resources as needed for projects.
• Encourage and support the professional development of team members by providing constructive feedback and guidance.
• Stay updated on the latest trends in media production, accessibility technology and inclusive design.
• Liaise with the Media Group members to report progress, challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Skills and Experience Required:

• Strong understanding of media production processes, including graphic design, video editing, photography, social media management and podcasts.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a collaborative and inclusive approach, giving clear visual descriptions and feedback to the team.
• Familiarity with accessible design practices and tools (e.g., screen readers, alt-text, audio description) or willingness to learn.
• A working knowledge of media software and content management platforms.
• Experience working in inclusive environments and collaborating with people with disabilities, particularly visual impairments, is highly desirable.
• Ability to produce accessible materials and content to encourage others to join and engage in the media group.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Gain leadership experience in a creative and inclusive environment.
• Work closely with a diverse team and contribute to meaningful, accessible media projects.
• Develop skills in accessible media production, inclusive communication and team management.
• Make a positive impact by empowering people with disabilities to participate fully in media production.
• Opportunity to build a portfolio of media work.
• Increased confidence in working and meeting new people, making friends and enjoying yourself.
• Research suggests that volunteering has a positive effect in future employment opportunities.

Additional Information:

• An induction to the organisation and role will be provided
  A training day will be provided to ensure you understand the organisation and the assistive technology we use
• You will need to provide two referees before you can start this role
• Travel expenses (see volunteer policy) will be reimbursed and other out of pocket expenses incurred, such as refreshments where applicable
• A DBS check maybe required when working with vulnerable people
• You will be volunteering alongside staff and volunteers with Visual Impairments
• Guide dogs may be present

Outlookers have a flexible approach to volunteering and have a variety of roles available to suit ALL individuals who want to get involved. If you have other skills that would benefit the organisation (i.e. IT/Tech Support, administration, gardening, database management, finance, event planning), please tell us about this in your application.

Outlookers is committed to being an equal opportunities organisation. Our aim is to ensure that everyone connected to the organisation; staff, volunteers and service users are given an equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of all sections of society.

To discuss this role further, please contact Laura, Volunteer Coordinator
07708 054245 / laura.gibbins@outlookers.org.uk

We look forward to hearing from you

Team Outlookers

18 yrs and above

• References required
• DBS (criminal record check that the organisation will organise)
• Other

This role requires a person with a very good level of sight; to be able to assist a group of people with little or no sight

Please note there will be guide dogs present at this session