Volunteer - Send Information Advice And Support Service

SEND INFORMATION ADVICE AND SUPPORT SERVICE (SENDIASS) VOLUNTEERS

Location: Opportunities available across North Yorkshire
Hours: Flexible volunteer hours between 9:00am and 5:00pm

Make a Difference in the Lives of Children and Young People with SEND

Are you passionate about helping children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) achieve the best possible outcomes?

If so, we'd love to hear from you.

North Yorkshire SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) is looking for dedicated volunteers to support families, children and young people across the county. This is a rewarding opportunity to develop specialist knowledge, gain valuable experience and make a meaningful difference in your community.

SENDIASS is a confidential, impartial and person-centred service that provides information, advice and support to children and young people aged 0 to 25 with SEND, and to their parents and carers. We help families understand their rights, navigate the SEND system and access the support they need.

What Will You Do?

As a SENDIASS Volunteer, you will:

• Manage a small caseload, providing tailored information, advice and support to families and young people.
• Learn and apply SEND legislation and the SEND Code of Practice (2015) when supporting families.
• Champion the views, wishes and feelings of children and young people, ensuring their voices are central to decision-making.
• Support parents, carers and young people through the Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment process.
• Help families understand and contribute to draft Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Support participation in Annual Reviews and other SEND-related meetings where appropriate.
• Promote awareness of SENDIASS and the support available across North Yorkshire.

What We're Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

• Have experience of working with, supporting or advocating for children, young people or families.
• Are willing to undertake training in SEND legislation, including completing IPSEA Levels 1 and 2.
• Have excellent communication and listening skills.
• Can work independently while knowing when to seek advice and guidance.
• Demonstrate empathy, professionalism and emotional resilience.
• Are organised and able to manage information confidentially.
• Can travel within their designated area of North Yorkshire when required.

Training and Support

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full induction and ongoing support from the SENDIASS team.
• Funded training in SEND law and guidance through IPSEA Levels 1 and 2.
• Opportunities to develop communication and casework skills.
• Regular supervision and access to specialist advice from experienced team members.

Why Volunteer with SENDIASS?

As a small team supporting families across the whole of North Yorkshire, our volunteers play a crucial role in extending the reach of our service.

By joining us, you will:

• Make a real difference to the lives of children and young people with SEND.
• Help families feel informed, empowered and supported.
• Gain valuable skills and knowledge in SEND law and practice.
• Gain valuable experience in empowering children, young people and families whilst supporting positive outcomes.
• Be part of a dedicated team committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.

Interested?

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:

Carol Watson
SENDIASS Manager
☎️ View phone number on nycjobs.engageats.co.uk
✉️ View email address on nycjobs.engageats.co.uk