Ultra Fusion Group
Aspire is the parent charity of the youth group, Ultra Fusion Group. This youth group provides a safe, welcoming place for young autistic people aged 16-25 to learn, grow,develop skills and tobuild self-esteem and confidence while making friendships.
Ultra Fusion Group volunteers support the delivery of a youth group to young autistic adults that enhances their personal, educational and social development.
Key Duties and Responsibilities of the Role
Build positive relationships with the youths, learn abouttheir interests, talents and hopes. Create a safe, enjoyable, and trusting atmosphere.
Help plan and prepare activities, share your skills and talents, be a mentor to the youths. Take part in activities, spend time with youths and encourage them to participate.
Create a safe environment in which youths can thrive. Role model positive behaviours.
Invite allyouths to be involved in managing the youth group through day to day operations.
Organiseparental permission and contact with parents as needed.
Uphold and adhere to Aspire’s policies and procedures for health and safety, child protection and safeguarding vulnerable adults. Familiarise yourself with the Code of Conduct and adhere to this.
Ensure the protection and welfare of youths attending the service by reporting any safeguarding concerns to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP).
Key Skills, Experience & Qualities
Good communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to relate to youths and their life experiences.
The ability to address young peoples’ concerns with respect, empathy, sensitivity and tact.
The ability to work on a team, showing reliability, patience, resilience and flexibility.
Knowledge and experience of working with people on the spectrum is desirable but not a necessity.
Previous experience of volunteering with a youth club/ social group or similar desirable but not a necessity
An openness to learning and developing further good practices to support young autistic people.
Key Requirements
Complete the Aspire recruitment process, which includes Garda Vetting.
Complete the full mandatory induction training and undertake ongoing development training.
Complete ChildrenFirst Training and Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Training.
Read and adhere to the Aspire Handbook, which details the policies and procedures of Aspire.
Benefits
The opportunity to contribute positively towards the development of young people, enhancing their sense of self-worth and self-belief.
Personal and professional development in the area of confidence, patience, adaptability, leadership, communication and decision-making. Development of leadership and facilitation skills, while making a difference in the lives of the autistic youths.
Time Commitment
The time commitment is 2 to 3 hours a week (youth group operates in line with school calendar).
Induction, Training & Support
Volunteers will complete a comprehensive induction with a designated member of the team that will include reviewing the role description, volunteer agreement, the Code of Conduct, general operations of the group, health and safety information, and safeguarding procedures.