Volunteering
What does it take to be a volunteer?
Do you have energy, excitement and enthusiasm? Are you fun, open minded and creative, but patient and tenacious?.
Being involved in a Son-Rise programme is a uniquely rewarding experience. To reach out to a child in this way and slowly bring them into our world is really to be part of a miracle in progress.
How much time will I commit?
Volunteers do four hours a week minimum (two 2 hour sessions) with Emily. We program the sessions to fit your timetable, Monday to Saturdays 9am-7pm. Emily has up to 3 sessions a day. Once a month we have a 1-2 hour team meeting to exchange ideas and talk about the next steps.
What commitment do we need you to make for Emily?
We ask people who join our team to make a commitment to Emily for an initial period of six months. She has to get to know people and it’s not fair to her if she makes the step but cannot understand when a person stops visiting her. After the initial six months we will discuss your further commitment in similar periods of time.
Do I need experience of working with autistic children or special needs?
NO EXPERIENCE OR PREVIOUS TRAINING IS REQUIRED.
Will I have some training?
We will show you all that you will need to know to work with Emily. All our volunteers receive training and regular observation and feedback sessions, to maximise effectiveness in the playroom. There are opportunities to observe and receive further training from visiting Son-Rise professionals.
