Volunteer Sussex Self Advocacy Group Supporter

Speak Out is an independent advocacy charity for people with learning disabilities living in Brighton and Hove. We support people to:

• Speak up and get their voices heard,
• Have control over their lives and find solutions to their problems
• Participate in and positively contribute to their community.

We are looking for a volunteer for our new self advocacy group based in Burgess Hill. The group will meet every 2nd Thursday of the month, 2:00pm – 5:00pm, at the Cherry Tree Centre on Fairfield Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 8QB.

• You will be supporting the group alongside a member of staff
• Initial induction training will cover the Principles of Advocacy, Speak Out’s Code of Practice and how to advocate within this framework
• Ongoing training opportunities will be available.

Skills

The role involves:

• Being available for 3 hours once a month to provide support for Mid Sussex Speak Up self-advocacy group in Burgess Hill.
• You will be present to support people in a group setting
• You will adhere to Speak Out’s Code of Practice
• You may be required to help clear up at the end of sessions.
• Ad hoc administrative tasks.    

Essential qualities:

• Commitment to equal opportunities
• Good listening and observational skills to allow people with learning disabilities to speak up
• To be non-judgmental and respectful towards people
• A sense of fun and humour, and the willingness to try new things
• Understand the need for confidentiality of independent advocacy
• Ability to work independently, use initiative and remain calm in stressful situations
• A willingness to develop skills, engage in supervision and undertake training as required
• Basic IT skills that include Word, Outlook or similar.

Benefits

• Engage directly with local and national policies and campaigns to make Brighton and Hove a better place to be a person with a learning disability 
• See positive outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged people as a direct result of your support 
• Use and expand upon your existing experience and skills.  

When do I need to be available?

Details	Every 2nd Thursday of the month, 2:00pm – 5:00pm

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Where does this role take place?

Register your Interest