At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families by providing information and resources, and assist with community engagement activities.
- Company: Gateshead SENDIASS, dedicated to supporting children and families with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, skills development, and references for future opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, ongoing support, and potential training pathways available.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your knowledge of SEND support.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping others.
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, and 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.
Sendiass Volunteer employer: Axis Recruitment SEND Support Services with Gateshead
Gateshead SENDIASS is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children, young people, and families. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and professional development, volunteers can expect comprehensive training, ongoing support, and opportunities to enhance their skills in SEND case support. The welcoming work culture fosters collaboration and respect, making it an ideal environment for personal growth and community engagement.
Contact Details:
Axis Recruitment SEND Support Services with Gateshead Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sendiass Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Gateshead SENDIASS. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. Focus on common questions related to volunteering and SEND support. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! When you’re chatting with the team, let your personality shine through. They want to see the real you and how you connect with families and young people. Share your passion for supporting others and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Sendiass Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for supporting children and families.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role. Mention any previous volunteer work or experiences that show your commitment to community engagement and support.
Show Your Enthusiasm:Express why you’re excited about this opportunity! We love seeing applicants who are genuinely interested in SEND and helping families navigate the system.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you’re organised and serious about the role. And remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Axis Recruitment SEND Support Services with Gateshead
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the SENDIASS services and the specific needs of children and families. Understanding the role's responsibilities will help you articulate how your skills align with their mission.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your genuine interest in supporting children, young people, and families. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive your commitment to this cause, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Practice Active Listening
During the interview, demonstrate strong listening skills by engaging with the questions asked. Reflect back what you hear and ask clarifying questions if needed, showing that you value communication and understanding.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the role and the organisation. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the opportunity aligns with your goals and values.
