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SOS!SEN: Volunteer Opportunity at Waterloo Advice Centre

Applications for this opportunity are now open.

About SOS!SEN:
SOS!SEN is a committed organization with a vision to ensure that all children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in England receive the appropriate education, health, and care support. We aim to empower them to reach their full potential as learners and as skilled, independent individuals.

We are dedicated to empowering parents, young people, and carers by providing them with knowledge about their rights and entitlements. Our services include quality legally-based advice and strategic guidance, helping them to navigate the educational system and ensure their rights are upheld. Additionally, we foster a community for parents and carers, promoting the sharing of experiences and support. We also engage in awareness-raising activities, training, campaigning, and lobbying to address the challenges within the SEND system, and we work to educate teachers and local authorities to help them meet their legal obligations to children and young people with SEND.

Volunteer Role Description:
SOS!SEN is currently seeking two proactive and compassionate student volunteers to join our team at the Waterloo Advice Centre. This role involves:

  • Arriving 15/30 minutes before the centre opens at 5.30 PM.
  • Taking direction from the Advice Centre (AC) lead.
  • Meeting and greeting parents, and entering their details into our database.
  • Guiding visitors to the appropriate areas within the centre.
  • Opportunities to shadow experienced advisors who provide support to parents.

In addition to these responsibilities, volunteers will receive basic training in SEND law. This placement is an excellent opportunity for individuals who have a keen interest in disability, neurodivergence issues, SEND, or education more generally.

What Will Volunteers Gain?
By participating in this volunteer program, students will:

  • Gain practical experience in a supportive and impactful organization.
  • Develop interpersonal skills through interaction with parents, young people, and professionals.
  • Enhance their understanding of SEND law and the challenges within the educational system.
  • Have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND.

Time Commitment:
Volunteers are expected to commit to specific hours in alignment with the operating hours of the Waterloo Advice Centre.

Who Can Apply:
This volunteer opportunity is open to all LLB and LLM students who have a passion for supporting individuals with SEND and are eager to contribute to the mission of SOS!SEN.

How to Apply:
Please complete this form to apply. The deadline for submissions is 19 November 2023 at 11:59 pm. Please contact Ram Sabaratnam at Ram.sabaratnam.19@ucl.ac.uk if you have any questions or concerns.