Young Peoples Social Group Volunteer - Autism Support Ayrshire

Ongoing opportunity

Click Here to Volunteer!

What is the role?

Who are they?

What can I gain?

Where?

When can I volunteer?

Any requirements?

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Why we need you

• The social navigation programme is designed to support autistic young people aged 12 to 18 years to explore the social world and become more confident in meeting new people and gain new skills.
• The social navigation programme will provide a safe opportunity for individuals with autism to socialise with others who are also autistic, share their own experiences and listen to others.
• The social navigation programme will play a vital role in helping to alleviate social isolation for autistic people, improve their confidence and increase social skills.
• The impact of Covid-19 restrictions have led the social navigation programme taking place virtually as video calls.

What you will be doing

• Online social navigation programme
• Attending the social group sessions online
• Supporting individuals to build their self-coping strategies and promote their self-management
• Giving all members of the group the opportunity to talk and interact if they wish to
• Help improve self-confidence, self-esteem and self-worth of people at the group
• Building up positive relationships with people at the groups and other volunteers
• Keeping in touch with the group leader and notifying if you are unable to attend
• Monitoring the chat box and responding to questions/queries posted there
• Reading aloud comments members have posted in the chat box (as required)
• Keeping the conversation to the topic being discussed
• Supporting the group leaders in running the group smoothly

ABOUT THIS ORGANISATION

The National Autistic Society is here to transform lives, change attitudes and create a society that works for autistic people.

We transform lives by providing support, information and practical advice for the 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK, as well as their three million family members and carers. Since 1962, autistic people have turned to us at key moments or challenging times in their lives, be it getting a diagnosis, going to school or finding work.

We change attitudes by improving public understanding of autism and the difficulties many autistic people face. We also work closely with businesses, local authorities and government to help them provide more autism-friendly spaces, deliver better services and improve laws.

www.autism.org.uk

WHAT COULD YOU GAIN?

• Improve support to autistic individuals in your local area
• Access free training and learn new skills
• Meet new people
• A great opportunity to add to your CV

WHERE?

Online groups – homebased

WHEN CAN I VOLUNTEER?

Ongoing

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Skills experience and qualities useful for the role (but not essential)

• Understanding of autism (we provide training)
• Empathy and understanding
• Open-minded and willing to learn
• Good communication and Interpersonal skills
• Good level of self-awareness and own needs
• An ability to volunteer in a group setting, using initiative and common sense
• Reliable, consistent, dependable and trustworthy
• A broad range of interests would be an advantage but not essential
• For the virtual groups you will need access to a computer/tablet, a good internet connection and a quiet space away from others in the household

REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE ROLE

You will be asked to complete our online application form and complete our mandatory e-learning modules which include autism awareness,  and safegaurding

Click Here to Volunteer!