Role: Support at drop-in centre on Wednesday afternoon in Kingswood.
Purpose: To support adults with a learning disability and/or autism in a social situation to increase confidence and self-esteem, to build independence and to reduce social isolation.
Activities: We provide a range of activities that our members can choose to be involved with, or simply attend to socialise with friends. Volunteers and staff are there to provide support where needed. Please note that this is not a support role and that members who need extra care will attend sessions with their own support/care workers.
Examples of Activities:
- Encourage and support individuals to access and/or engage with activities
- Help facilitate arts and crafts, quizzes, bingo, and other games and activities
- Encourage independence and social skills amongst members by engaging and socialising with them (in accordance with The Hive’s boundaries policy)
- Help in the kitchen to provide refreshments (teas and coffees) as needed
Skills Required: Skills in listening and the ability to communicate with diverse types of people are essential. Patience, enthusiasm, and a non-judgemental mindset are a must. Experience with learning disabilities and/or autism is not a requirement, and full training will be provided to new volunteers.
Hours and Timescale: One session at the drop-in either weekly or fortnightly, ideally for a minimum of six months. Flexible volunteering can be offered; however, it is essential that volunteers attend sessions that they are scheduled for and notify the session leader if they are unable to attend. This is to ensure the safe running of the drop-in.
Supervision: Volunteers will be supported by their Session Leader, who will provide informal supervision on a regular basis. The Volunteer Coordinator can always be contacted via email if there are any issues.
Benefits: All volunteers receive induction and awareness training on learning disabilities and autism within the first three months of volunteering and have the option to attend additional training offered by The Hive. Full liability insurance is in place. Mileage and out-of-pocket expenses can be claimed if needed. A work record will be kept for each volunteer so that we are able to provide references if requested. Social events, such as skittles, are held regularly for volunteers.
Queries: For any additional information or to request and application pack, please email our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteers@thehiveavon.org.uk or phone our office at 0117 9614372.