At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with disabilities through fun activities and play.
- Company: Children’s Respite Trust, dedicated to helping families in need.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and references for future opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while having fun.
- Qualifications: A caring attitude and willingness to learn; no experience needed.
- Other info: Flexible hours available, with full training provided.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
The Children’s Respite Trust believes no family should have to care for a child with a disability alone and so we provide respite at our Centre in Uckfield throughout Sussex and beyond. For some, this care means parents get to spend time with siblings of the disabled children. For others it is simply an opportunity for some sleep, but for all families, it is a chance to do something that the rest of us take for granted, while the children have the best time possible. As the Trust has grown, we have expanded the services providing support for children as young as 2 up to 19 with a wide range of physical and learning disabilities. The current services include a Special Educational Needs nursery called Little Stars, respite sessions in the school holidays, community care, siblings club and family care events. This combination ensures the whole family is supported.
About this opportunity
Are you passionate about inclusion, learning, and making a real impact in the lives of young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN)? We are looking for compassionate, enthusiastic volunteers to join our team! As a play worker volunteer in our setting, you’ll support children and young people with a range of needs including autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and learning disabilities.
What your role may include:
- Supporting children with activities
- Helping with sensory play and assisting with communication
- Providing one-to-one or small group support
- Encouraging social interaction and confidence‑building
- Supporting staff with daily routines and transitions
What We’re Looking For:
- A caring, patient, and positive attitude
- Willingness to learn and adapt to individual needs
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- No prior experience required – full training provided!
What You’ll Gain:
- Valuable experience in education and SEN support
- Training and ongoing guidance from experienced staff
- A chance to make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life
- References for future employment or study if needed
We are committed to safeguarding and protecting the children in our care and therefore have a range of procedures in place to ensure that only those who are suitable to work with children get to work with us. This post is subject to vetting checks including Disclosure and Barring Service check. Applicants must also provide two references inline with our safer recruitment policy. Expenses can be paid if required. Flexible hours available – weekdays, term‑time and school holidays.
For more information please either come in and see us at Wealden Volunteering, or call us on 01825 760019, or email us at office@wealdenvolunteering.org.uk.
Volunteer Play Worker – Children’s Respite Trust in Uckfield employer: Uckfieldvolunteer
Contact Detail:
Uckfieldvolunteer Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Play Worker – Children’s Respite Trust in Uckfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the Children’s Respite Trust and understand their mission. This will help you connect your passion for inclusion and learning with their goals during any conversations.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers on social media or through local community groups. They can share insights about their experiences and might even give you a heads-up on opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Visit the Children’s Respite Trust in person, chat with staff, and express your enthusiasm for volunteering. It shows initiative and genuine interest!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with the digital side of volunteering.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Play Worker – Children’s Respite Trust in Uckfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children and making a difference in their lives. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to apply for this role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and attitude align with our values. Mention specific qualities like patience and teamwork that we’re looking for.
Be Honest About Your Experience: No prior experience is required, so don’t worry if you haven’t worked in this field before. Just be honest about your willingness to learn and adapt to the needs of the children.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Uckfieldvolunteer
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the mission of the Children’s Respite Trust. Familiarise yourself with their services and how they support families. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your values align with theirs.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for working with children and supporting those with Special Educational Needs shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, that demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference in young people's lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting a child with autism or encouraging social interaction. Think about examples from your past where you've shown patience, adaptability, or teamwork, and be ready to discuss them.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, the types of activities you might be involved in, or how the team supports each other. This shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role.