These groups provide somewhere to have a chat, meet other people, share experiences, make new friends and gain information from the experiences of others. Share information about services and facilities available for autistic children and adults, and together influence attitudes about autism. Please note: Branch volunteers are unable to offer any professional advice during these meetings.
The groups also provide social activities for all the members and their families – for example, occasional outings and socials plus bowling and other outdoor activities. Free refreshments and items from their resource library are also available at meetings.
Adults’ social group
This friendship group for adults and older teenagers generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Children’s and Teenagers’ groups) during term time on Tuesdays from 7.00 to 9.00pm Children’s and Teenagers’ social groups
The Children’s and Teenagers’ group generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Adults’ group) during term time on Tuesdays from 6.00 to 8.00pm
The Southampton volunteer Group Leader will be responsible for the co-ordination of the NAS South Hampshire branch’s adult and older teens social group and the children and teens social group.
What you will be doing
- Planning sessions, including activities and other ideas, and co-ordinating the other volunteers attending both groups,
- Welcoming the autistic children, young people and adults to each of the sessions
- Interacting with those attending, making sure that everyone can engage in the activities in a safe manner.
- Organising the setting up and clearing away before and after the club activity
- Keeping the branch chair informed of both group’s activities in the upcoming sessions and attending branch committee meetings
- Ensuring your branch complies with NAS policies including risk assessment, data protection and safeguarding.
- Any agreed expenses incurred will be reimbursed by the branch
- You will be supported in your role by the Branch Chair and former group leader.
- You will have access to a dedicated NAS email address for this role
- A criminal record check is a requirement of this role