• 01603 662648
  • info@newroutes.org.uk
  • Catherine Wheel, Norwich

New Routes Advocates


New Routes Advocates are experienced volunteers who take on leadership roles within the organisation, helping to shape, strengthen and deliver our work while developing valuable skills and experience.


This role has been created to recognise the expertise, commitment and lived experience within our community and to provide meaningful progression opportunities for volunteers who want to take on greater responsibility and influence.


What is a New Routes Advocate?

 

New Routes Advocates are trusted volunteers who:

  • Take a lead role in a specific area of our work
  • Support staff to develop and deliver services
  • Act as ambassadors for New Routes Integration
  • Contribute to organisational learning, improvement and impact

 

Advocates work closely with staff and participants, and are supported through supervision, training and reflective practice.

 

Why the Advocate Role Matters

 

The Advocate model reflects our belief that leadership can be developed, shared and grown from lived experience.

 

By creating structured volunteer leadership roles, we:

  • Strengthen our services and capacity
  • Build confidence, skills and employability
  • Create clear pathways from volunteering into paid work, leadership or governance
  • Ensure participant and community voices shape what we do

 

For many Advocates, the role provides a stepping stone into employment, further training, or wider leadership opportunities.

 

Areas of Leadership

 

Our current New Routes Advocates are developing skills and providing leadership across key areas, including:

 

  • Communications and Development
    Supporting storytelling, fundraising, campaigns, digital content and community engagement.
  • Retail Management (Free Shop)
    Supporting the day-to-day running, stock management, volunteer coordination and development of our Free Shop, ensuring dignified access to essential items.