Role Summary
We are looking for volunteers to support us in delivering our wheelchair skills training sessions in England, Scotland and Wales. In addition to promoting independence in young wheelchair users, our wheelchair skills training sessions aim to enable young wheelchair users to have confidence in their ability to use their wheelchairs, teach them new skills they can use in their everyday lives, give them the confidence to ask for support when it is needed and reduce social isolation. As a wheelchair skills training volunteer your duties may include assisting the session leader in setting up activities, supporting young wheelchair users’ participation in these activities or helping to collect feedback.
Background to Whizz Kidz
More than 75,000 young people in the UK need a wheelchair to be mobile. Most have no access to a wheelchair that’s right for them, leaving them at risk of social isolation, poor mental health, and physical injury. We want to change that. Our vision is a society in which every young wheelchair user is mobile, enabled and included.
Location
Various opportunities across the UK.
Time Commitment
Flexible, though weekday mornings and/or afternoons during term-time would be ideal.
Skills and Qualities Required
- Enthusiastic and confident
- Supportive, friendly and sensitive to others
- Ability to communicate with young people of all ages
- Positive attitude towards disability
- Flexible and creative
- Proactive and not afraid to get involved
- Experience of working with young people is an advantage but not essential
- Lived experience of using a wheelchair is an advantage but not essential
Benefits of Volunteering
- Get to work alongside an expert team of Wheelchair Skills delivery team, gaining valuable experience
- Develop transferrable skills, for example coaching skills, which will enhance your CV
- Opportunity to see development in young people throughout sessions
- Volunteer within a supportive and inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes disability awareness
- Receive recognition and appreciation for your valuable contributions to our organisation
- Be part of an amazing team of volunteers supporting the UK’s leading charity for young wheelchair users
Support Offered
Full induction and appropriate training will be provided for the role, in addition to ongoing support. We would want you to feel part of the team and will endeavour to ensure you always feel supported and valued.
Expenses
It is Whizz Kidz’s policy that volunteers should not be out of pocket for their contributions, and therefore we are happy to reimburse reasonable travel expenses. Whizz Kidz has a maximum budget of £30 per day for volunteers attending services.
Safeguarding
Whizz Kidz is committed to safeguarding and protecting all children, young people and adults at risk by implementing robust safer recruitment practices. This volunteering opportunity is subject to an enhanced DBS check or equivalent.
Step 1: Register your interest via the Volunteer Zone
It's quick and easy. Register here.
Step 2: Complete our Volunteer Application form
It helps us get to know a bit more about you
Step 3: Wait to hear from us!
We'll then arrange a time for a chat