The Volunteer Service

The Volunteer Service is available to support families and children/young people in practical ways. The aim of the service is to provide a break for parents/carers and to give young people opportunities to socialise and access leisure provision. The service is available for children and young people aged 0-19 years. Volunteers can offer support on a one-to-one basis to ensure that they build up good relationships with the child and family. We recommend a maximum of 12 hours support each month. Volunteers can offer support in the following ways:

Sitting Service - volunteers provide a break for parents/carers by caring for the child/young person within the family's own home or by taking the child/young person out. This service is flexible to suit the individuals and needs of each family and risk assessments and personal care plans are completed.

Side by Side Service is a befriending scheme. Children accessing this service are usually aged 11-19 years. The volunteer takes the young person with a disability out to enjoy a leisure activity eg swimming, cinema. Care is taken to match volunteers to young people with similar interests.

All our volunteers are carefully selected and undergo the Umbrella two day Disability Awareness Training, two references are required and a CRB check has to be completed.

Volunteers have the opportunity to attend monthly meetings and access further training. We maintain regular contact with families and volunteers.

Umbrella Disability Awareness Training

This training has to be undertaken by all of our Volunteers and can be offered to other organisations. The trainings take place over two days - usually held on Saturdays

For more information on Volunteers and the Training please contact the Volunteer Services on 01332 204434 or email us at volunteerumbrella@msn.com.