Meeter/Greeter Volunteer (Multiple Roles Available)

About SOS!SEN
SOS!SEN is an independent UK charity dedicated to helping families secure the right educational support for children and young people with SEND. Our team of over 70 volunteers with firsthand experience provides legally-based advice and practical guidance to confidently navigate the SEND system. We support parents, carers, and young people through every phase of their journey. With a 95% success rate at Tribunal and 1,400 helpline calls answered yearly, we empower all children to reach their full potential through the provisions they deserve. We also raise awareness of SEND challenges through training, campaigning, and lobbying, ensuring that legal duties to children are fulfilled.

We’re Looking for Meeter/Greeter Volunteers
Locations Available:

• Canterbury, Kent: 2 roles available
• Maidstone, Kent: 1 role available
• Bristol, Bristol City: 1 role available
• Thornton Heath, Greater London: 1 role available
• Birmingham, West Midlands: 2 roles available
• Westminster, London, Greater London: 2 roles available

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per month (term time only)
Start Date: February 2025 (flexible)

Join us as a Meeter/Greeter Volunteer!
You’ll be the first point of contact at our advice centres, offering empathetic and welcoming support to families and individuals navigating SEND challenges. This rewarding role enables you to make a meaningful difference by strengthening our community connections.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome visitors to the advice centre.
• Use a web-based system to register visitors.
• Triage visitors reasons for attending the advice centre.
• Process and manage large quantities of information efficiently and be able to condense it to hand over the visitor to a SEN advisor.
• Build relationships with visitors and provide a listening ear. Keep accurate records in the charity database.
• Share key updates through our WhatsApp community.

Skills and Qualifications:
Essential:

• Empathetic, helpful, and kind demeanour.
• Ability to build relationships and listen actively.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with web-based systems.

Desirable:

• Personal experience with the tribunal system.
• Some knowledge of SEND.

Training and Support:

• Initial training will be provided.
• Ongoing support through our volunteer knowledge area, with access to webinars, continuing training and development opportunities, and SOS!SEN resources available on our website.

What’s in it for you?

• Gain valuable experience in the SEND field.
• Contribute to a meaningful cause and make a tangible difference in the lives of families.
• Develop skills in communication, problem-solving, and technology.

Expectations:

• Adhere to our code of conduct and maintain confidentiality.
• Be proactive in finding solutions to problems through personal research and available resources.

Inclusive and Supportive Environment:

At SOS!SEN, we value the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our volunteers. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where all volunteers feel respected, valued, and able to meaningfully contribute to our causes.

How to Apply:

To apply, click the "Apply" button to complete the application form. You won’t need to submit a CV or cover letter. When asked about the capacity in which you’d like to volunteer, please select ‘Meeter/Greeter at Advice Centre ’ to ensure your application is considered for this role.