Signpost (digital) language offer Leidsche Rijn

“Once a week I spend two hours in the Overvecht Library to provide people with low literacy skills about the range of Dutch language lessons in Utrecht. Together with someone who experiences a barrier to the Dutch language, I look at which language lessons this person needs. There is often another need behind the desire to learn the Dutch language. For example, someone wants to get a better grip on their finances or better understand the letters from Dutch authorities. Where possible, we immediately hit the ground running and immediately arrange a registration at a language school or call for more information. In the back of the library I sit at an 'advice table' where interested parties can register for more information. If I am on a call at that moment, someone can wait in our 'waiting room'.” – Ellen, Wegwijzer language offer Utrecht.

What do you do as a volunteer Signpost?

• Informing and referring low-literate people about the language offer in Utrecht;
• Conducting consultations (by telephone or in the library) for low-literate people who cannot come to the library;
• Coordinate with library staff and keep a log of incoming questions and the manner of handling.

To do the above, you will be trained to use more. This also keeps your knowledge of the language on offer in Utrecht up to date.

What do you have at home?

• You have communication skills that allow you to have conversations with people who have limited command of the Dutch language;
• You can quickly gain insight into a situation and by asking the right questions you can determine the learning wishes of low-literate people (language level, personal development goals, financial possibilities);
• You have insight into the language offer in Utrecht (or are willing to delve into it) and you can therefore actively refer low-literate people;
• You are digitally skilled so that you can register incoming questions;
• You are available for two to three hours a week on Tuesdays from 13:00-15:00, for at least six months. And you are available once every six weeks for a meeting with fellow signposts from other districts.
• From September 2019 you can start with the signpost consultation hours. You can walk along with other signposts earlier to get familiarized.

What do you get in return?

With your efforts you ensure that low-literate people feel at home and can participate in Utrecht society. After all, you need language to make friends, talk to your children's teacher, go to the doctor, find a job or do your homework. Meaningful work with a major social impact! At the same time you get to know other cultures, you get a lot of enthusiastic Language, more colleagues and you can develop yourself through various appropriate training courses.

You will be supervised by a project leader from Taal doen meer. Together with the Utrecht Library, the project leader will provide you with the information you need and appropriate training. Intervision is offered periodically and we organize meetings with which you can develop yourself. Expenses are reimbursed in consultation.

Are you interested in the position of Signpost? Send your resume and short motivation as soon as possible to Yvonne Blok, project leader at Taal does more. You can do this via the pink button below. You can also contact her for questions.