At a Glance
- Tasks: Host drop-in sessions for autistic individuals, fostering social interaction and support.
- Company: Lifeworks North Staffs, a supportive community for autistic people.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, build confidence, and make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a caring community and enjoy reimbursed travel expenses.
- Why this job: Help create a welcoming space for autistic individuals to connect and thrive.
- Qualifications: Friendly, patient, and confident; experience with autism is a plus but not essential.
Help Make a Life‑Changing Difference to Autistic People. Lifeworks North Staffs is looking for passionate female volunteers aged 18+ to help run our regular drop‑in sessions for autistic people across North Staffordshire. Many of our clients are bright and capable but can experience isolation due to difficulties with social interaction and interpretation. This can have a significant impact on their mental health and wellbeing. Our drop‑ins provide a safe, welcoming space where people can meet others facing similar challenges, build friendships, and access support.
What the Role Involves
- Help host our regular sessions in Newcastle‑under‑Lyme, which take place in a local café on most Tuesdays and last approximately 3 hours.
- Activities are informal and may include:
- Chatting over tea and coffee
- Playing board games
- Supporting social interaction
- Creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere
- Listening to issues and concerns raised by clients
- Reporting relevant concerns back to Lifeworks staff where appropriate
The role requires confidence in supporting and managing groups of people while ensuring everyone feels included and respected. Travel and reasonable role expenses will be reimbursed.
Who We're Looking For
- Female and aged 18+
- Friendly, patient, and approachable
- Confident managing groups of people
- Good listeners with strong communication skills
- Interested in supporting autistic people and their wellbeing
Experience of Autism and ADHD is desirable, but a willingness to learn is equally important.
About Lifeworks North Staffs
Established in 2006, Lifeworks North Staffs supports over 1,000 clients and 400 carers across North Staffordshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. We support people aged 14+ living with:
- Autism
- ADHD
- Dyspraxia
- Tourette's Syndrome
Many of our clients also experience mental health challenges. Our services include:
- Social interpretation (advocacy)
- One‑to‑one appointments
- Life coaching
- Client activities and drop‑ins
- Carers' groups
- Befriending services
Our mission is to help people build confidence, improve wellbeing, and achieve a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.
What Our Volunteers Say
“As a carer I find volunteering has helped my confidence and wellbeing. Lifeworks is like a big family and being able to give support to other carers is very rewarding.”
“It is helping me to increase my self‑esteem, some of which I have lost from not being in employment for some years. It is giving me confidence by showing I have skills which are useful. It feels good to ‘be there’ for my befriended friend and to have their companionship in return.”
If you would like to help create a welcoming space where autistic people can connect, socialise, and feel supported, we would love to hear from you.
Drop-in Volunteer employer: Vast Services: Investing in communities
Honeycomb Charitable Services Ltd is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture where volunteers can truly make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals in Stoke-on-Trent. With opportunities for personal growth and skill development, our volunteers not only contribute to the community but also build meaningful connections with others who share their passion for helping those in need.
Contact Details:
Vast Services: Investing in communities Recruitment Team
