Volunteer Youth Support Assistant

Role title: Volunteer Youth Support Assistant 

Short description of role: Supporting our Connect! service for young people aged 9-18 with Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Activities range from a social board games & Lego group to kayaking, archery and bushcraft. 

Long description of role: Involve’s Connect! service is funded by Kent County Council’s Short Breaks scheme. The purpose is for young people aged 9-18 with Autistic Spectrum Conditions to have a space to meet and build friendships with other young people in an autism friendly environment. The aims are for the young people to build their confidence, independence, and life skills in a safe space. As a volunteer, you would provide valuable support to the young people at activities which have previously included pizza making, arts and crafts, kayaking, archery and bushcraft as well as a regular group that meets and plays board games and Lego. It would not be necessary to join every activity but regularly enough for the young people to build relationships and trust with you at the group. Duties would involve supporting the Youth Programme Coordinator to get the young people settled at the beginning of the session and making drinks for parents and young people. You may also be encouraging young people who are feeling anxious to participate in activities by being a source of support to them and making them feel more comfortable. Most importantly, you will be supporting the group to stay safe and comfortable while trying new experiences. 

Districts/areas the role is available in: Across Kent 

Skills that the volunteer may need: Good listening and communication. Previous experience of working with young people is desirable but not essential. 

What can the volunteer gain from this opportunity: Experience working with children and young people with additional needs. A sense of pride watching young people build their confidence and try new things. And of course, lots of fun! 

Please note that this role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check. 

Involve is fully committed to upholding the rights of all children, young people and adults to be protected from harm and abuse and to achieve the best outcomes.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.