Are you at least 16 years old? (It is better if you are at least 18)
Do you have free time regularly?
Do you enjoy helping others and would like to help a child (or young person) with difficulties?
Are you reliable?
What does a volunteer do?
A volunteer helps to provide support to a child or young person with Autism Spectrum Condition through one (or more) of our three schemes
Social skills activities
Sitting scheme
Befriending scheme
The Social Skills Group
The D.A.S.G. arranges activity days and residential weekends for young people within the autistic spectrum. Volunteers are required to participate in these activities supporting a young person on a one to one basis as part of a group of 6-8 young people. Activities range from very active things such as canoeing, orienteering, abseiling and cycling through to more gentle ones such as table tennis or problem solving games.
The Sitting scheme
The sitting service provides a much needed break for the parents and carers of people within the autistic spectrum. We would like volunteers to spend time with the family, get to know the child or young person so eventually parents or carers will be able to have some regular time for themselves. This may mean sitting in the daytime or evening so that parents can have a social life together. It may provide time for parents to spend with other children in the family. This scheme provides much needed respite for parents or carers who may be exhausted and under pressure. YOU could provide a much needed opportunity for them to recharge their batteries, thus strengthening their ability to cope.
Befreinding scheme.
Young people within the autistic spectrum usually become aware that they are different, that they are not making friends or going out independently like other people of their own age. Young people with Autism Spectrum Condition, lack the social skills to mix with others, and do not know how to ‘chat’, dress appropriately or behave in social situations.
Many need a befriender who can help them learn to cope with social situations and will take them to the places young people go. The befriending scheme aims to increase the leisure and independence skills of young people within the autistic spectrum. Someone who is willing to spend time with them on a regular basis, to help develop their self-confidence, to introduce them to a wider range of activities and social skills.
The Derbyshire Autism Services Group will provide:
Free training in Autism Spectrum Condition and other appropriate areas
Re-imbursement of reasonable travel expenses and (within limits) other reasonable out of pocket expenses.
Support, advice and guidance and the opportunity to meet other volunteers, to chat and share ideas.
How to find out more
If you have any further questions please contact:
