At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with autism in fun activities like kayaking, arts and crafts, and board games.
- Company: Involve Kent, a community-focused organisation dedicated to empowering youth.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, build friendships, and enjoy a sense of pride in helping others.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while having loads of fun!
- Qualifications: Good listening skills and a passion for working with young people.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with various activities across Kent; perfect for students!
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
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.
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.
Activities you will be doing:
- Befriending
- Buddying & Mentoring
- Community Work
- Youth Work
What skills are required for this role:
- Teamwork
- Listening
- Talking To Others
- Leadership
Good listening and communication. Previous experience of working with young people is desirable but not essential.
What is in it for you:
- 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!
Time Commitment: Ad hoc events. A monthly bulletin with upcoming events will be sent to your email and you will let us know which activities you can support with.
Number of volunteers required: 20
Application Process:
- Application Form
- ID Check
- References
- Informal Discussion (may include an interview)
Volunteer Youth Support Assistant - ND clients - All over Kent in Ashford employer: Kentvolunteers
Contact Detail:
Kentvolunteers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Youth Support Assistant - ND clients - All over Kent in Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Involve Kent and their Connect! service. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with them during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for youth work! When you're chatting with them, share your experiences or stories that highlight your enthusiasm for working with young people, especially those with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your skills! Think of examples where you've used teamwork, listening, or leadership in past experiences. This will show them you’re the right fit for supporting the young people.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your discussion, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your commitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Youth Support Assistant - ND clients - All over Kent in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about supporting young people.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you haven’t worked directly with young people before, think about any relevant skills or experiences you have. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or just being a good listener, we want to see how you can contribute to our Connect! service.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Make sure to express your excitement for the role in your application. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in making a difference in the lives of young people with Autistic Spectrum Conditions!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kentvolunteers
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Volunteer Youth Support Assistant entails. Familiarise yourself with the Connect! service and the activities involved, like board games, kayaking, and arts and crafts. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how you can contribute.
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Young People
During the interview, share any relevant experiences you have working with young people, especially those with additional needs. If you don’t have direct experience, talk about your enthusiasm for supporting youth and how you can create a positive environment for them.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Good listening and communication are key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach conversations with young people, especially those who may feel anxious. Use examples to illustrate your ability to connect and build trust with others.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the types of activities you might be involved in or how the team supports each other. This shows your eagerness to engage and learn more about the role and the organisation.