Engage Renfrewshire is excited to announce the launch of an innovative new pilot project designed to foster inclusivity in local volunteering.
The Inclusive Volunteers initiative seeks to recruit and train a dedicated team of volunteers to help adults and young people with autism access meaningful volunteering opportunities across Renfrewshire.
The Inclusive Volunteers project is an essential step in ensuring that everyone in the community, regardless of ability, can contribute to and benefit from volunteering. The project’s primary aim is to break down barriers, enabling individuals who may face challenges in navigating public transport, accessing community resources, or participating in volunteer activities to thrive with the support of a volunteer mentor.
Louise Walker, Volunteering Development Officer at Engage Renfrewshire, is leading the initiative and welcomes interest from potential volunteers who are passionate about making a difference in their community.
She said: “We’re looking for compassionate and dedicated individuals who are committed to helping others gain equal access to volunteering,” said Louise Walker. “This is a unique opportunity for volunteers to build lasting relationships, learn new skills, and help people in their community achieve their personal goals.”
What will Inclusive Volunteers do?
Volunteers in this project will be paired with a local adult or young person who has additional support needs. Their role will involve:
- Building a supportive relationship to help their match achieve their goals.
- Assisting with navigating public transport and ensuring smooth travel arrangements to and from volunteering sites.
- Attending initial volunteering sessions as a point of contact and source of comfort.
- Collaborating with their match to decide when their support is no longer required.
- Keeping in touch with the host organisation to ensure a smooth and gradual transition to independent volunteering.
Why become an Inclusive Volunteer?
Volunteers will gain access to:
- Initial and ongoing training, including autism awareness.
- Regular support and supervision from Engage Renfrewshire and Autism Connections.
- The chance to connect with local groups and individuals.
- Opportunities to enhance their own skills and confidence while making a meaningful difference.
Who should apply? Engage Renfrewshire is seeking volunteers who:
- Are committed to supporting individuals in their local community.
- Are flexible and able to meet the needs of people across Renfrewshire.
- Have strong communication skills and enjoy working with new people.
- Can undergo a PVG check due to the vulnerability of the individuals supported.
Time commitment: Volunteers are asked to commit to a minimum of one hour per week for at least three months.
Where and when: Volunteering will take place at various locations across Renfrewshire during office hours, ensuring that both volunteers and their matches are supported during their activities.
For volunteers supporting individuals with autism, Autism Connections will provide specialized guidance. Engage Renfrewshire will also offer general support and supervision throughout the process.
How to Get Involved
If you are interested in becoming an Inclusive Volunteer or have any further questions, please contact Louise Walker, Volunteering Development Officer at Engage Renfrewshire:
- Email: lwalker@engagerenfrewshire.com
- Phone: 0770 887 4051
To apply, register as a volunteer with Engage Renfrewshire using this link: Inclusive Volunteers (engagerenfrewshire.org)
