Volunteer Role Summary
Gateshead SENDIASS is recruiting volunteers to help improve access to information and strengthen engagement with children, young people and families. Volunteers support service delivery by helping people access information, understand processes and feel welcomed and included.
Purpose of the Role
This role supports the delivery of accessible information and engagement opportunities while maintaining clear professional boundaries. Volunteers provide practical support, help families connect with services and resources, and may have opportunities to develop knowledge and confidence in SEND case support over time.
Key Responsibilities
• Support information sessions, events and engagement activities
• Welcome families and help people access information and resources
• Assist with administration and communications
• Gather feedback from families and young people
• Promote awareness of SEND support services
• Support inclusive participation and community engagement
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Assist with aspects of case coordination and case management activities where appropriate and under supervision
• Observe and develop understanding of SEND processes and advocacy pathways
Development Opportunities
This volunteer opportunity is designed to support progression and skills development. Subject to organisational needs, experience and successful completion of induction and training, volunteers may have opportunities to:
• Gain exposure to case management processes
• Develop understanding of SEND law, processes and family support
• Receive additional internal training and mentoring
• Explore progression into a more structured case support or case worker pathway
Potential Training Pathway
Where appropriate and at the organisation’s discretion, volunteers may be supported to undertake relevant SEND-focused learning and development opportunities, which may include training informed by materials and approaches associated with IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice), with the aim of building knowledge and capability to support families and potentially progress toward future case worker responsibilities.
Who We Are Looking For
We welcome people who:
• Care about supporting children, young people and families
• Have strong listening and communication skills
• Respect confidentiality and safeguarding requirements
• Work respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds
• Are organised and dependable
• Are interested in developing knowledge of SEND systems and advocacy
Time Commitment
Flexible opportunities available.
Suggested commitment: approximately 3–6 hours per week.
Training and Support
Volunteers will receive:
• Induction and orientation
• Safeguarding guidance
• Support around confidentiality and boundaries
• Ongoing supervision and support
• Opportunities for skills development and reflective practice
What Volunteers Gain
• Experience supporting families and community services
• Exposure to case coordination and service delivery
• Skills development and practical experience
• References following successful volunteering
• Opportunities to contribute to inclusive practice
Application Process
Please submit an expression of interest and attend an informal discussion if shortlisted.
DBS and references may apply depending on responsibilities.
Gateshead SENDIASS welcomes applications from people with a broad range of experiences and perspectives.