The Big House Theatre Company

September 17, 2014

Skills-based volunteering makes sense. Not-for-profits gain from the access to a professional skillset they don’t have in-house and volunteers often get to use their skills in new environments, take on greater responsibility and gain valuable experience. Several of our guardians sidestep traditional volunteering opportunities and use their professional skills to add long term value and impact to charities. Guardian Josh, a Lighting Designer, volunteers his talents and massive chunks of his time to The Big House Theatre Company in east London.

Led by Artistic Director Maggie Norris (who won a place on the The Independent’s 2014 Happy List for her tireless work), The Big House was founded in January 2013 to work with care leavers to provide them with a safe and creative place wherein they can develop their skills and confidence. A therapeutic tool, live performance builds trust and provides a voice and a platform to young people who may be struggling with the stressful complexities of beginning a new life outside of care.

Their powerful and energetic performances are constantly praised by critics and their work with young people is exciting and innovative, something communities across the country need. They’re always on the lookout for brilliant volunteers who have time and skills to share. They’re also looking for a volunteer to join their Front of House team from 13^th November to 20^th December 2014. Get in touch for details via info@thebighouse.uk.com.

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Local people have been very positive. They like the fact an empty building in their neighbourhood is being used again and is being maintained.
Conor, Shoreham-by-Sea
“Dot Dot Dot has helped me get to know people around my area and it has been a great introduction to volunteering.”
Lamonte, Sutton
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Caitlin, Whitechapel
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Jasmine, Peckham
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Josh, Poplar
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Tom, Croydon
“I was drawn to property guardianship because I wanted to live affordably in London which is pretty hard to do – and the volunteering aspect of guardianship with Dot Dot Dot really appealed to me as a way of giving back to the community.”
Carl, High Barnet
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Alex, Whitechapel
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Tim, High Wycombe
“When I started investigating guardianship options, Dot Dot Dot stood out because of the emphasis on volunteering and contributing to the local community.”
Alison, Bow