Volunteer

Often the most valuable and powerful support for parents is time spent with other parents who carry the lived experience of raising a child who has Down Syndrome.  Time to talk through the challenges and to share the success with someone who really understands, can build confidence, reduce isolation and increase parental self-esteem.  If this resonates with you and you can spare a few hours week, the role of volunteer befriender could provide the perfect volunteering experience for you. 

You will provide emotional support and practical help to parents who have a child or young person with Down Syndrome.

The major tasks and responsibilities of Volunteer Befrienders are:

• To understand the aims and objectives of the Ups and Down Southwest service
• To undertake a two day foundation training course
• To offer time, empathy, understanding and a ‘’listening ear’’ to parents by meeting either in the family home, at a neutral base or through email or telephone communication
• To agree to regular support meetings, ongoing training and one-to-one supervision
• To accept the codes of practice to which the service adheres including, but not limited to, confidentiality, child protection, and equal opportunities; copies of these will be received during training or on appointment
• To be aware of the professional boundaries of the role
• To be aware of the position as a trusted individual not to unduly influence a parent by giving direct advice or exerting control over an action to be taken by the parent

Important Note

Befrienders will receive an official letter of acceptance as a befriender, which will detail the Volunteer Arrangement. Please note that appointment as befriender is subject to completion of the foundation training course, readiness for befriending, satisfactory references and enhanced criminal records check (Disclosure).

Raising a family can be a busy and hectic time for any parent.  Where there is a child with additional needs, everyday tasks can become overwhelming and making that all important time for yourself, almost impossible.  Having an extra pair of hands a few hours a week can prove invaluable.  As a Parent Supporter, as well as a listening ear, you can provide practical help such as helping with outings, learning and play at home, support with attending appointments, practical help around the home – even the simplicity of making a cuppa can make a huge difference to the lives of our busy parents.

The major tasks and responsibilities of Parent Supporters are:

• To understand the aims and objectives of the Ups and Down Southwest service
• To attend an initial ‘Down Syndrome Awareness’ training session
• To undertake a two day foundation training course
• To offer time, empathy, understanding and a ‘’listening ear’’ to parents
• To offer regular, practical help to families in their own home
• To agree to regular support meetings, ongoing training and one-to-one supervision
• To accept the codes of practice to which the service adheres including, but not limited to, confidentiality, child protection, and equal opportunities; copies of these will be received during training or on appointment
• To be aware of the professional boundaries of the role
• To be aware of the position as a trusted individual not to unduly influence a parent by giving direct advice or exerting control over an action to be taken by the parent

Important Note

Parent Supporters will receive an official letter of acceptance as a volunteer, which will detail the Volunteer Arrangement. Please note that appointment as Parent Supporter is subject to completion of the foundation training course, readiness for volunteering, satisfactory references and enhanced criminal records check (Disclosure).