Purpose of this volunteer role:

Developed by our community connector, using funding provided by the Virtual Autism Hub, MindSpace is proud to be enabling two support groups for Autistic Adults. One is in Bourne and one is in Stamford.

MindSpace is looking for a volunteer with knowledge, experience and confidence in supporting autistic adults to help enable the continued delivery and development of these safe and friendly spaces. You may be someone who has previously worked as a professional supporting autistic adults. You may be someone who has been part of the support and care of an autistic adult. You might be autistic yourself and motivated to support others.

The role is fully supported by Shani, our Four Counties Community Connector. You will receive full guidance and training as a MindSpace volunteer for everything you’ll need to do.

 

When and where

The role is approx. 12 hours per month, some of this will be planning and arranging the group activities in line with the program already outlined. This can be done at times that suit you and fit round your existing commitments. You will also need to attend the group activities and sessions which are:

Stamford Autistic: The Garden Room at Stamford Day Centre. 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of the month- 10am until 12pm.

Bourne Autistic: Wake House in Bourne. 2^nd and 4^th Monday of the month- 11am until 1pm.

 

Support

You will be supported by the Community Connector as well as the wider MindSpace Hosting and Volunteer Support Team.

You will receive a Specific Induction to the Stamford and Bourne Autistic Groups as well as your general volunteer training as part of your induction.

Like all our volunteers you will be able to access our reflective supervision sessions and be given access to additional training and development such as Mental Health First Aid Training and Listening Training (if you would like it).

More about this role

Type: Volunteer role

Title: Bourne and Stamford Autistic Group Coordinator Volunteer

Point of contact: Community Connector

Expenses: Expenses for travel will be reimbursed to the role holder.

 

Why we want you

The Bourne and Stamford Autistic Group Coordinator Volunteer will be responsible for running (with support of the Community Connector and MindSpace Hosts) in person, twice monthly group sessions held in community spaces.

The main focus of the role will be enabling the twice monthly sessions in Stamford and in Bourne ensure that it runs smoothly and facilitating access and participation within the group, encouraging discussion and connection between participants. In addition you may be asked to take on a “light” support role including, planning and organisation of the events/activities. If needed we may need your help to liaise with venues and supporting risk assessments.

We are looking for a reliable individual or individuals committed to making a difference in the community by being part of the MindSpace Volunteer Team that enables access to wellbeing and support for everyone living, learning and working in Stamford. Our Autistic groups enable us to meet the specific wellbeing needs of autistic adults.

What you will be doing

Being at the groups acting as a point of contact for members if they need assistance and leading the planned session for that day.

Help to make members feel welcome, safe and comfortable

The skills you need

To provide consistency and stability to the group we you need to be a reliable, committed and punctual person.

Able to tackle difficult issues, problems and situations, with support and involvement other people where necessary.

Confident in leading sessions with autistic adults to a planned framework.

Taking the lead at introducing participants and supporting discussion, team working and connection.

Able to make new people feel welcome.

Confident in volunteering with and communicating with individual participants face to face.

What’s in it for you

Improve wellbeing support to autistic people and their families in your local area.

Build up an understanding of autism by volunteering with autistic people.

Access free training and learn new skills.

Meet new people.

A worthwhile achievement to add to your CV.

 

Disclaimer

We seek applications from anyone interested in the role, but particularly welcome applications from those on the autism spectrum.

 

Please drop us an email if you think this sounds of interest to you! info@mindspacestamford.com