Becoming a Special Needs Volunteer

Originally written by Jack Claridge, updated by the editorial team on 30th May 2026

What Does Special Needs Mean?

The term 'special needs' encompasses a variety of conditions including physical, learning, sensory, and emotional challenges that affect how someone manages daily life. These may be present from birth or develop later. Some are lifelong, while others may change over time.

Children and adults with special needs often benefit from extra support. This might be occasional help with specific tasks or more regular assistance depending on their circumstances.

Common categories include:

Physical disabilities affecting mobility or coordination
Sensory impairments such as hearing or sight loss
Learning disabilities and developmental conditions
Medical conditions requiring ongoing care or monitoring
Autism spectrum conditions
Mental health conditions

The level of support needed varies greatly from person to person. Some individuals live independently with minimal help, while others require assistance with personal care, communication, or getting around.

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Why Volunteers Are Needed

Charities, schools, and community groups across the UK rely on volunteers to support their work with children and adults who have special needs. Volunteers work alongside professional staff and paid carers, providing essential support and enriching the care services available.

Volunteer roles might include helping at youth clubs, accompanying young people on outings, assisting in special schools, or providing companionship. Some volunteers support respite programmes that give family carers a break. Others help run sports sessions, arts activities, or holiday schemes.

Families caring for children with special needs can face considerable pressure. Having reliable volunteers involved in their child's activities or care can make a real difference to their quality of life.

The demand for volunteer support remains consistently high due to ongoing needs within community and care settings. Organisations such as Scope, Mencap, and local charities are often looking for people willing to give their time. Many areas also have volunteer centres that match people with suitable opportunities.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

What Volunteering Involves

The day to day tasks depend on the role and the organisation. You might find yourself helping a child take part in a group activity, reading with young people, pushing a wheelchair during a day trip, or simply being a friendly presence.

Some positions require specific skills or training. If you volunteer somewhere that involves personal care, moving and handling, or administering medication, you will usually receive instruction beforehand. Organisations are responsible for making sure you are prepared for what the role involves.

Volunteer roles involving regular contact with children or vulnerable adults will require a DBS check. This is a background check that the organisation arranges and pays for. The process typically takes a few weeks, though it can be quicker or longer depending on the level of check required and whether any additional enquiries are needed. You may also need to provide references. Roles with limited or supervised contact may not require a check, and the organisation will advise you on what applies.

Safeguarding training is a standard requirement for volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults. This ensures you understand how to recognise concerns and report them appropriately.

Time commitments vary. Some roles ask for a few hours a week on a regular basis. Others are more flexible or based around specific events. When applying, be honest about how much time you can offer. Reliability matters more than the number of hours.

Volunteering in this area can be emotionally demanding. You may encounter challenging situations or form attachments that are difficult when circumstances change. Good organisations provide ongoing support and supervision, giving volunteers the opportunity to talk through their experiences and ask for guidance when needed.

Getting Started

A good first step is thinking about what kind of role would suit you. Consider your availability, any relevant experience, and whether you prefer working with children, teenagers, or adults. You do not need professional qualifications to volunteer, though patience and a calm manner help.

Search for opportunities through local volunteer centres, council websites, or directly with charities that work in this area. National organisations such as Mencap, Sense, and Contact often list volunteer vacancies on their websites. Schools for children with special educational needs sometimes welcome volunteers too.

Once you have found a role that interests you, expect an informal interview or chat. This helps the organisation check you are suited to the work and gives you a chance to ask questions. If a DBS check is required, you will be guided through the application.

Training is usually provided. This might cover safeguarding, communication strategies, or condition specific awareness. Even experienced volunteers tend to learn something new.

Many volunteers find working with people who have special needs to be a rewarding and grounding experience. It asks you to be patient, flexible, and present. For many, the connections they form are the reason they keep coming back.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Childcare Career Finder lets you tell us what draws you to working with children and we will match you with the UK careers or volunteering roles that fit you best. Try it now →

102 questions

Ask Working with Kids a Question

WorkingWithKids Editor 18/06/2026 at 6:01 pm

@Moo Bear Your best bet is to ring round the special schools in your area directly, as most are crying out for volunteer helpers and value lived experience far more than paperwork. Mencap and the National Autistic Society also run local branches that welcome volunteers for befriending schemes and youth groups. It's worth checking your local council's volunteer centre too, plus Scope and Barnardo's. You'll need an enhanced DBS check, but the school or charity will usually sort that out for you.

Moo Bear 18/06/2026 at 5:56 pm

I am 62 years old, and I I'm not looking for a career opportunity.

I have no formal qualifications in this area, but I am looking for an opportunity to help others benefit from my life experience.

My son was classed as having Moderate Learning Disabilities - being on the spectrum - almost 30 years ago.

He was sent to a local special school, where I volunteered as a helper.

Alongside two other parents, we formed the Gloucestershire Special Schools Protection League, unsuccessfully campaign to save that School from closure.

My grandson now attends that same special school.

He is almost 12 years old; and has Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Sensory Processing Difficulties, and has been diagnosed with an additional learning disability.

I would like to use the understanding that I have gained in this area, to help a local school - in whatever capacity possible.

Do you know of any available opportunities, for me to offer my services in a voluntary capacity, in this area?

Many thanks

WorkingWithKids Editor 18/05/2026 at 9:15 am

@Remya Hi Remya, we don't actually hold a register of vacancies ourselves, so I'd suggest going direct to local SEND schools in Canterbury such as Laleham Gap, St Nicholas' School or Foreland Fields, who often welcome volunteers. It's also worth contacting Kent Association for the Blind, Mencap Canterbury, and Involve Kent, who can match you with suitable roles. Your university volunteering hub should have listings too, and a quick search on Do-IT.org by postcode usually throws up plenty of one day a week opportunities. Good luck with the PG dip.

Remya 04/12/2025 at 10:57 am

My name is Remya, I am an international MA Education student at Canterbury Christ Church University.I did my Bachelors in BA English Language and Literature and I have B.Ed. I have two months of teaching experience in a government school in India, where I have deals with differentialy abled students and those who have learning dissabilities. Now I have a plan to do PG diploma in SEND and course for Autism/speech and language difficulties. I am 31 years old and mother of two kids.I have a strong interest in supporting children with special needs.I would like to do voluneering works with special students atleast one day per week. I would love the chance to contribute my time, energy and compassion as a volunteer. Have you got any volunteering vacancies within the Canterbury or it surrounding areas , I am availble and willing to do that. I look forward to hearing from you.

Pat 21/04/2024 at 8:37 pm

I have been in the caring profession all my working life . Was in the army in QARANC , senior auxiliary nursing residents with senile dementia , worked with young adults with challenging behaviour . Two granchildren with autism . Just want to do
some volantary worthwhile job helping thank you

None 07/01/2024 at 4:36 pm

Have worked in the care field all my working life . Support worker with children with behaviour problems. Senior auxiliary in a nursing home. Have minded still do my 2 grandchildren with autism.much more, I’m retired but want to do some worth while volantary

sj 06/11/2023 at 9:33 pm

Hi,

I would like to volunteer and assist kids with special education needs.I have done ABA,RBT and ABAT and worked for a year with a child(1:1) as a Learning support assistant.
I would like to gain more experience in this field and moreover support the community.
I am happy to assist kids in school or any other learning setting or supporting disabled kids.
looking forward to hear from you.

Ian 30/10/2023 at 2:07 pm

Dear Sir/madam, I'm interested in volunteering in SNE field as a volunteer as eventually would like to work in this field as a teaching assistant in a paid job.

Siy 23/07/2023 at 9:57 pm

Hi, I'm currently looking for volunteering or work experience with children with special needs. I am in my final year of university at the moment and hoping to work in this field when I graduate so I would appreciate any experience you have available. Please let me know who to contact, kind regards.

Kieron 19/07/2023 at 12:00 pm

I am interested in volunteering to support/help with children with learning disabilities or special needs support. I am in the Scarborough area if there any vacancies available. I have a DBS certificate although I will need to check if it is still upto date. Thanks Kieron

The Frame 01/05/2023 at 3:18 pm

I have vast experience working with children of all abilities and disabilities.

No 04/07/2021 at 9:34 pm

Am doing level 2 for Teacher Assistente a will be happy to start volunteer for any child with disabilities i live in St. John’s Wood. If anything is close to this area let me know. Thank you

Neen 22/06/2021 at 11:47 pm

Hi my names nina in from highamspark in east london .im 36 year old looking for some voluntry work .I have a 12 year old son with adhd and autism.I also have a autistic brother .I would like to make a diffence and help kids with special needs. Please get in contact nina

Jasmin 09/06/2021 at 9:25 am

I am looking to become a volunteer for specials need children in Glasgow, I currently work in a school but as a dinner ladies and would love an opportunity to help out.

Jenlloyd75 21/05/2021 at 11:27 am

Hi my names jenny and I have an 8 year old with asd adhd sensory processing disorder, I myself have a diploma in mental health diploma in education. Psychology and have many certificates in Understanding Student Development and Diversity, Working with Students with Special Educational Needs childcare and EYFS and quiet a few more and I'm looking for a volunteer position as have grades but need the practice

Vio 28/02/2021 at 5:45 am

Hello Iam a Ugandan female and would love to volunteer with kids with special needs iam committed and ready for all to see a child or children smiling kindly help me to find a host family / group or camp. I will be so grateful to hear your positive response.
Regards
Viola

Rach 01/02/2021 at 11:01 pm

Hi my name is Rachael and im a mum to 4 children of which two have disabilities one more than the other. My son has autism, severe developement delay, pica and many other difficulties. I would like to volunteer with kids with sen as i feel i understand exactly how the families feel and from my own experiences can offer maybe some advice or just be there to listen in difficult times. Any help how to do this would be fab. Thanks in advance

Lily 23/11/2020 at 1:13 pm

Hiya I'm a 17 yo female who suffers from tourettes and I would love to help other children with learning disabilities because I know how hard it can be sometimes, I've managed to get through it all, and I love working with children, I live in Milton Keynes, if there is anything available in this area please contact me I'm currently in college doing a level 2 Engineering course and I think it would be amazing to have this sort of experience, I want to help others fell better about themselves and think "I am me I don't need to change for anyone".

Samina 03/11/2020 at 4:14 pm

Hi, I did my master degree in special education 14 years back. Now want to persue my career in this field after a long time. I would like to work with children with disabilities and make a difference in someone's life. I'm from Warrington.

vini 20/10/2020 at 1:42 pm

hi. i am looking to volunteer with children with special needs in and around the Dartford area. i have always enjoyed working with Kids and would love to make a difference in someone else's life.

Gladis 10/10/2020 at 9:54 pm

I am looking for a volunteer who will accompany me and my son on days out. He has ADHD and I find it increasingly difficult to cope myself in public. We are in Enfield. A male hand is what we need. He misses out on trips due to his erratic behaviour. Please advise!

Addy 21/09/2020 at 3:32 pm

Hello.. am interested in doing a voluntary work with kids with SEN. Kindly assist on how to go about this. Thanks

Razzapants 25/08/2020 at 4:50 pm

i would love to volunteer, i have experience with special need children and want to make a difference.

kornelia 13/02/2020 at 3:06 pm

I would love to volunteer with children with all kinds of disabilities. I am currently 17 years old, turning 18 later this year, and looking forward to study medicine. I am a very patient individual, who’s content with helping others. This opportunity would be ideal for me to gain work experience and support my community. My younger brother, suffered from Down syndrome. Unfortunately, he passed. I would love to make a difference to someone else’s life, in a way of such support.

Shan 02/02/2020 at 10:17 am

Hello, I am would like to volunteer working with children with special needs. I have no previous experience as I have just left school and am 19. Currently looking for work in Redbridge.

Thank you
Shan

Sara 06/09/2019 at 5:28 pm

Am step mother of autism child
We live in irbid Jordan
Her no support for these child's apical needs no support from governments
His father couldn't work because he take care of him
My husband and his child ate Greek citizens and I Jordanian
The problem is they can live in UK but I can't because I don't have Greek citizens
So how I become volunteer in special needs in UK
They can live there but in same time my husband can't left her alone
My request is how I can volunteer I we want to live in UK because they know mean what's apical needs is and how to comnicat whit them her in Jordan they don't know and the supports so poor
So plz help us

Gemma 12/08/2019 at 2:29 pm

Hello,
I am currently studying an undergraduate degree and am thinking of studying social work for my postgraduate degree. However I have some experience of working with children with an SEN but would like to further my knowledge and experience. Have you got any volunteering vacancies within the South Wales region I am currently biased in aberdare.

Brogan 18/07/2019 at 9:58 am

I am 24 years old and would love to work with SEN children. My brother has down syndrome and I would love to hear from someone about how I volunteer

Has 27/06/2019 at 5:08 pm

Hi I currently work with autistic adults and physical disabilities and learning disabilities.
So I would like the experience of working with children who are autistic and have physical and learning disabilities

Harry 27/06/2019 at 5:03 pm

Hi I would like to work with autistic children in schools. I currently work with Adults with learning disabilities.

So would like experience of working with children in special needs schools so eventually in the future may be look for full-time work. Thanks Harry

Derya 18/05/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi I am looking to become a volunteer for special needs children in March. Please advice me how and who to contact . thank you

Kimmie 10/03/2019 at 5:05 pm

I writing regarding interests in volunteering work with Children or Adults with special needs. I'm hearing impaired with the help of an hearing aid and would love to do some work experience in a special needs school and am hoping someone guide me to the right direction of how to apply for this position.

Would be grateful for your co-orespondence.

Thank you in advanced
Kim

Lauren 08/03/2019 at 11:03 am

Hi there, I'm currently seeking work experience volunteering with children with special needs. I am in my final year of university at the moment and hoping to become a special needs ta upon graduating so would appreciate any experience you have available.
Many thanks

Shell 14/02/2019 at 12:24 pm

I would like to be a volunteer for special needs children or adults iv got 3 grandchildren with special needs so I think iv got an understanding of what special needs can be

Iza 29/01/2019 at 3:38 pm

Hi, I am looking to volunteer to work with special needs children in school from September in Berkshire or Buckinghamshire. I am Polish and a highly-qualified EFL teacher, but I have been working in my field, but mostly part-time from home/online for the last ten years. Currently, I am looking after my two-year old twin girls and a ten-year-old SEN boy. I am passionate about teaching, and supporting children with learning difficulties, speech and language and on the spectrum. I would love to gain more experience in this field, but I am not sure where to start without much classroom experience.

Beant 04/01/2019 at 2:44 am

Hi I’m Beant and I’m 40 already have 2 kids but also have deaf siblings I have always wanted to work with special needs children for years as I want to really give back to the community so it’s personal to me. I’m currently joined with an agency where you are sent to schools to give support but I would love to interact more and to be able to support more

Sophie24 06/12/2018 at 9:22 pm

Hi my name Sophie I am looking to volunteer to help in any way with people with learn disabilities. It is so close to my heart as I have a son with autism and I would like to help other people. And I dont no how I go about to do this

Kirsty 16/11/2018 at 9:40 pm

I’m lucky enough to work part time and have my own business. I have previously been support for adults with learning difficulties but would love to voluntarily support children with disabilities. It would be a dream to know how much I could give

Fe 19/10/2018 at 12:53 pm

Am seeking part time work with early years children with Special needs in Lowestoft, but so far. to no avail. I have experience of working with deaf and partially hearing, autistic and .special needs children and speech and language

Lott 04/10/2018 at 7:14 pm

I am currently studying level 2 Childcare in college and i hope after getting my diploma in July to do volunteer work in the summer, and then hopefully a job in a special needs placement in September. If they require Level 3 to be a TA in a special needs placement i am hoping to do so through an apprenticeship with the school, i live in Llantrisant Rhondda Cynon Taff area and am looking for volunteer work but not sure if there are any available, if anyone knows of any and could recommend it would be appreciated :)

kelly 27/09/2018 at 2:14 pm

hello ive just started my health and social care level 2 and am wanting to work with children and young adults with learning disabilities and would love to do some work experience in a special needs school and am hoping someone could help me find that I live in louth so need a placement in Lincolnshire.

Peram 12/09/2018 at 7:31 pm

I m looking for volunteers job for disable kids. I was kindergarten teacher in my country do let me know if there is any tq..

Jahan 16/05/2018 at 3:04 pm

Hi
I would like more information about volunteering.
I have experience working in school
And looking to gain more experience.

Fabia 04/05/2018 at 9:21 pm

Hi I am looking to become a volunteer for special needs children in Birmingham please advice me how and who to contact

Nimo 19/04/2018 at 12:20 am

Love to spend time with special kids.i have no experience but still I want to do something challenging for our kids x want to do voluntary work with you.

Eve 28/01/2018 at 11:22 am

Hi There,

My name is Eve Moulton and I am interested in volunteering in schools and play centres with children and adolescents that have special needs. I am
Currently undertaking a Level 2 qualification in counselling skills and will go onto studying for a masters in Psychotherapy for Adolescents, children and families. I would love to hear from you regarding any suitable volunteering opportunities. Please advise. Many thanks, Eve

Angeltine 31/10/2017 at 8:25 am

Hello I'm actually in health, social care and childcare level 1courses,and looking forward to help children having difficulties,could I have more information about volunteering in Nottingham please thank you.

L4uren 24/10/2017 at 8:12 pm

Hello Im currently still in school and I’m looking for work experience with special need children or adults, as I have had experience with being a carer for my older cousin and I would love to get more experience in being a carer

Rich 16/10/2017 at 5:09 pm

HI
I am looking to work with kids with SEN. I have a diploma certificate, but more importantly I have experience as my son has sen at his secondary school. I believe I have supported him well through his education. I also have experience working with (as a parent) working with Senco's and Outreach workers.
I would love to have a career in this field of work.

Laurie 27/09/2017 at 2:09 pm

Do you have any opportunity for voluntary in special school in sheffield?

Anastasia Grant 20/09/2017 at 1:17 pm

Hello I'm a mum of two children one who is autistic goes to special needs school I'm wanting to work with special needs as a career with my experience I can help children in all areas as I understand them

Bea 05/07/2017 at 11:36 am

I am Mental Health/Stress/Anger Management Counsellor, working school Terms in a SEN school with students from 10 - 19 years.

My availability for volunteer work is throughout the school holidays, particularly the Summer break. I have had experience of working in the SEN/Mental Health environment for approx. 20 years.

Many Thanks Bridget Keane.

mona 03/06/2017 at 12:54 am

Do you have any opportunities for voluntary working in special needs schools in Birmingham?

Sukhi 03/04/2017 at 5:33 pm

Love to work with special in need kids x

Tanya 31/03/2017 at 6:02 pm

How do i apply to become a special needs volunteer ?

non 21/03/2017 at 10:38 pm

I'm interested to work with special needs children in Slough. I'm working as a volunteer with girlguiding.

Sharan 09/03/2017 at 10:36 am

Hi

I have a degree in health and social care and looking at moving forward in my career. I am 30 years old and for the past 7 years since graduation back in 2010 I have had 3 children however they are at the age now where I am ready to do some volunterring work to gain experience before looking for a long term job once my youngest starts school.

I am based in North east. So sunderland Newcastle south shields durham are all around me.

could I have more information on how to get into volunterring please

Thank you

Eunice 09/03/2017 at 9:39 am

Hello am augandan aged 29 years holding ababachelors degree in COMMUNITY BASED REHABILITATION I like working with special needs children but I would like to start as volunteer in UK

Eunice 09/03/2017 at 9:35 am

Hello am augandan aged 29 years hold adegree in COMMUNITY BASED REHABILITATION from recognised university here in Uganda, I would like to start as volunteer by working with children with special need but currently am in Uganda but most of my family members stays in different parts of uk....thanks I will be very greatful if considered
yours faithfuly
sarah

Steph 08/03/2017 at 8:07 am

I'm a mum to 2 special needs children whom are now in full time education..I am reluctant to help children with special needs..I'm calm confident and extremely patient...I left school with no qualifications and I have no career experience due to devoting my time to my children.

none 17/12/2016 at 4:26 pm

My name is aysha I'm 48 very interested in voluntary work with special needs for a couple of hours in the morning near Stratford London or nearby thanks

none 17/12/2016 at 4:21 pm

My name is aysha I am 48 I am very interested in voluntary work with special needs around Stratford area London or nearby for a couple of hours in the morning thanks

WorkingWithKids Editor 28/11/2016 at 11:31 am

You can find possible opportunities via the Do-It site here. I hope this helps.

None 27/11/2016 at 10:54 am

I am an occupational therapist.. wish to volunteer for children with special needs

Hayley 14/11/2016 at 4:43 pm

I am 13 I have experience with special needs children would I be able to volenteer

EmmaY90 Editor 28/10/2016 at 1:03 pm

@TM - I think it is GREAT what you have accomplished - what a great role model you could be for younger people. You could do voluntary talks in schools about the amazing things you have achieved! Well done :)

TM 27/10/2016 at 6:00 pm

Hi I have Asperger's ADHD and Dyslexia. I left school with no qualifications but have always been employed. Recently my employment became unsecured so I decided to educate myself. I am not at University studying Law. However, I have to work three times as hard as other student and and therefore any future career is limited. I would love to encourage children to believe that things can be achieved in more than one way. I am very creative when finding new learning methods and understanding how draining new tasks are to achieve. I think I could bring something special to the way children engage in education.

Many Thanks

T.Meats

WorkingWithKids Editor 23/09/2016 at 10:42 am

You don't say whether ot not you are actually living in the UK. If you are, then you may be able to find voluntary positions via the Do-It site, here. If you are not int he UK, then you would have to explore whether you would be eligible to apply for a visa.

Moumita 22/09/2016 at 7:38 am

Hi,
I am a trained Special educator . I completed my Postgraduate diploma in Special Education from India. I am also a postgraduate in Psychology. I have a few years work experience of working at special needs schools in India. I am interested in pursuing a career as a SEN teacher in the UK. I am legally eligible to work and would like to start as a volunteer .

nk 02/09/2016 at 3:52 pm

I am 32 year old I would love to be volunteer and work with special needs.i would like a contact where can I volunteer with children,i live in west London. please let me know how I can appy for voluntary work with SEN.thanks

WorkingWithKids Editor 31/08/2016 at 11:01 am

If you are 18 and over you will be able to apply through sites such as Do-It

Jojo 30/08/2016 at 1:44 pm

Hi, i would absolutely love it if i can be a volunteer because i understand how it feels to be a person with special needs and i have experience with people with mental disorders (e.g depression) i can speak English and i can read, write and Translate Spanish

WorkingWithKids Editor 24/05/2016 at 11:41 am

You may find the Do-It site here useful to find a placement if you wish to volunteer.

Lorraine 23/05/2016 at 3:20 pm

I would love fe to o work with special needs kids please

caitlinrose 19/02/2016 at 4:39 pm

my name is caitlin and i am 14 years old i would like to be a volenteer and work with special needs. i know i am young but i know the basics needed in sign language i speak the basics of 2 other languages and i also volenteer for suicide awareness based in west belfast after winning them 3000 pounds in a youth philanthropy project. i a really interested in volenteer work with kids as i want o bee a special needs teacher when i am older and think that this will benifit well.

thai 14/07/2015 at 9:46 am

i would like to be a volunteer for special needs children i have 2 granchildren with special needs

thai 14/07/2015 at 9:42 am

i would to be a volunter for special needs i have 2 grandchildren with special needs

WorkingWithKids Editor 10/07/2015 at 10:05 am

@steve - good luck in the pursuit of your new career. It really can be such a rewarding profession. As specified in the article, if you are interested in becoming a Special Needs Volunteer you can contact your local Social Services department or Local Education Authority (LEA) who will have lists of organisations and centres where Special Needs are catered for. From volunteering you should be able to step into some teaching assistant positions. Doing a bit of educational agency temping is also a good way to get your foot in the door while at the same time getting paid and accruing valuable experience. I hope this helps.

steve 08/07/2015 at 12:40 am

Having spent several years dealing with children having different levels of competence due to special needs. I found this sometimes challenging ,but very rewarding. Seeing a youngster with severe behavioural problems initially change there mood and attitude towards others over a period of time due to feeling comfortable and relaxed whilst in my care. My role was a taxi driver undergoing school contracts. I have thought about investigating the requirements for working in this field for a long time. Now I feel it's right time for me to do some research

Kev 25/06/2015 at 3:55 pm

Hi I would like a contact where I can volunteer with children , after looking on here I carnt find a contact number can any1 help ?

WorkingWithKids Editor 26/03/2015 at 11:06 am

@nicola - I'm sure they would welcome you with open arms. You can see if there are any vacancies in Liverpool via the Do It website here. Or as specified in the article you can also contact your local Social Services department or Local Education Authority (LEA) who will have lists of organisations and centres where Special Needs are catered for. I hope this helps.

nicola 23/03/2015 at 1:20 pm

Hi I would love the chance to become a special needs volunteer I live in Liverpool I don't have any qualifications but have5 children of my own 2 of which have special needs and challenged behaviour

WorkingWithKids Editor 27/02/2015 at 11:40 am

@Tej - I have included a link to the National Autism Society here. You don't say what location you are based in, but you may see if there are any special needs schools in your area which you could apply directly to. I hope this helps.

Tej 25/02/2015 at 2:44 pm

I am studying first year A levels and hope to study Psychology at University. I am looking for work experience this summer working with children with special needs, ideally Aspergers or Autism. Please contact me if you have any such openings and let me know details of where and how I can apply

marlene 09/01/2015 at 10:14 am

Hello

My name is Marlene and I am ESOL course in college and I work in hotel Hilton Parade but I am interest learning how to work with children with special needs ,I am married ,35 years and I have one daughter .I work in hotel from August 2012.I am Portuguese and I live in Eastbourne 2 years and 8 months.
I love children and the more important for me is help.
See you soon .
All the best for 2015

Collyfox maddog 07/01/2015 at 2:01 am

I would love to help people with special needs as I think it would be very rewarding
but I imagine very demanding I work full time in a supermarket and would love to do something that would give me an great sence of well being

Collyfox maddog 07/01/2015 at 1:57 am

hello Im my thirties and work full time in a supermarket for years
would love to work with people who have special needs i dont think there is anything mere rewarding than it and and I feel i would get enough out of it i imagine it can be very demanding but never dull and very enjoyable

rach 19/12/2014 at 9:20 am

hi my name is rach I think i be great for this as i got a disabiltly and volunteer at my sister shool dose anyone know how to become one

WorkingWithKids Editor 10/10/2014 at 11:16 am

@Reni. Given your experience it might mean you could go straight in to fill-time or part-time work as a teaching assistant in an SEN school. You could look on job sites such as Indeed which has a list of SEN teaching assistant vacancies in your chosen areas. However, if you'd initially like to go into working as a Special Needs Volunteer you can contact your local Social Services department or Local Education Authority (LEA) who will have lists of organisations and centres where Special Needs are catered for. Good luck.

Rizwan Dharani 27/08/2014 at 9:44 pm

Hi, my name is rizwan I am 24 years old and I would like to get involved in helping children's with special needs. Like working with children's. I live in slough

Rosie 22/06/2014 at 12:46 pm

I'm 14 can I volunteer or am I too young?

tiegan 19/06/2014 at 11:46 am

i am a 14 year old who has grown up with special needs kids all my life and ive always been interested in working with them

mitch 16/04/2014 at 8:46 am

I am a 51 year old auxiliary nurse , I have experience of working with children with special needs, I am interested in volunteering .

mitch 16/04/2014 at 8:43 am

I am a 51 year old auxiliary nurse ,I have experience of working with children with special needs, I am keen to become a volunteer.

Page 12/03/2014 at 8:24 pm

I am 52 years old Science and Math teacher. I would like to be involved in helping special need children.

susy 29/01/2014 at 2:06 pm

hi,my name is susana monteiro, am a carer for a year and few months also am a parent and i decide change career. i have been worked in the past with childrens but know i decide to dedicate more in this field and am willing to give the best of my knowledge to help people but more then all this am open to learn at all stages with a great and positive attitude towards the work environment.please let me know if you need me.thanks

callum 21/01/2014 at 7:27 pm

I would love the opportunity to become a special needs volunteer. I am currently living in Cardiff and willing to travel up to ten miles.

Ant.D 22/12/2013 at 6:16 pm

Want to get involved with helping. Children. With. Special. Needs .Here at home .And was watching. A television. Show regarding. What iam enquiring about .I Live in Los Angeles Ca 90026 .Have a vehicle. Willing to Drive up to 10 miles .Again want to help ;;Please respond. tx .U

Sarah 30/09/2013 at 11:13 am

Hi I'm 25 and from Wigan I have a 7 year old daughter who is hearing and a 5 year old daughter who as a learning disability and is serverly deaf I've done a course on signalong and am now training on my bsl level 1 as she talks she also communicate through sign I'm looking for some volentary work as once I've passed on my bsl level 1 2 and 3 I'm hoping to be able do 1-1 with children would you be able to offer me any thing

samy 20/05/2013 at 12:21 pm

Hi I am 27 years old I have been a painter and decorator since I left school , but I always wanted to be involved in helping others it comes natural to me and I really would like a career change and make a difference to someone else's life I love kids and I'm out of work at the min so I have a lot of time on my hands do you think becoming a volunteer is a good start for a positive career change.

caath 05/03/2013 at 3:28 pm

love working with children, have worked with special needs before,

Will 10/10/2012 at 1:11 pm

It’s worth pointing out that being a special needs volunteer is rewarding but it can also be very emotionally draining, as you build up strong relationships with those you help. Be sure, beforehand, that you feel that you’re the type of person who’s psychologically built for this – not everyone is and it can be heartbreaking for some.

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