Parent Link, an impartial organisation which is funded by East Sussex County Council, offers advice and support to parents and carers on all kinds of issues relating to their child’s education, including admissions, learning and behavioural difficulties, and bullying.
In September it is offering comprehensive training opportunities for anyone who thinks they might like to volunteer.
Trained volunteers become Independent Parent Supporters. Their role is vital, helping parents to make informed decisions and to play an active part in their child’s education, especially for those who have children with special needs.
Typically, tasks might include home visits, accompanying the parent to meetings at school, helping with forms and letters, providing information and helping parents explore their options. In the last year, the volunteer team helped over 150 families.
Parent Link is organising three training sessions in September, covering everything volunteers need to know to get started. No volunteer is expected to make a commitment to volunteering before the training – rather, try it and see!
Further specialist training is then available as they progress into the role of Independent Parent Supporter and this training is offered on a flexible, individual basis.
Previous and current volunteers have commented on the number of benefits that volunteering with Parent Link has brought them, including:
- fits in well with other commitments
- don't need experience, just good communication skills
- full expenses paid
- develops skills, career options
- interesting
- can really help people.
You could be a Parent Link volunteer if you:
- are good at listening and communicating
- want to help ensure a good education for children – particularly those with special educational needs (e.g. those who have been diagnosed with some form of disability)
- are available during school times a few hours a week or fortnight
- successfully complete the recruitment process (interview, references, criminal record check, training)
- are prepared to attend training sessions and regular supervision sessions.
Readers can find out more by calling the Parent Link team on 01273 481279 or visiting the Parent Link website.
Reference:
1588
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