Volunteers to support people who are deafblind

Our Organisation

The Anne Sullivan Foundation (ASF) and Centre (ASC) are based in Stillorgan Co Dublin. We provide residential, day and community support services to adults and children who are deafblind all over Ireland. Our aim is to support people who are deafblind to pursue meaningful, active and fulfilling lives by promoting independence, communication, equality and inclusive decision making. www.annesullivan.ie

Overview of the Support Volunteer Role

The Anne Sullivan Foundation wishes to recruit and train Support volunteers to expand our community Outreach service. Our support volunteers will be part of a team who support people who are deafblind in a variety of ways. A person who is deafblind may have varying levels of speech, sight and hearing but no previous experience supporting a person who is deafblind or knowledge of sign language is required for these roles. Volunteers typically meet people in the person’s home or in the community. At present we are seeking volunteers who can provide support and befriending in the following areas:

• Urlingford Co Kilkenny. We are looking for a volunteer to support and befriend a person who is deafblind. This man enjoys technology, conversation and catching up on news and accessing his local community by walking, being driven or by using his tandem bicycle. Occasional support with technology in the home is desirable but not essential so do not let this be a barrier to applying!

Skills, Experience and Qualities required

• Be over 18 years of age
• Some roles require driving and some roles require an interest in technology
• A good level of spoken English or Irish Sign Language
• An interest in supporting people with disabilities to live full and active lives
• A patient and understanding attitude

Time Commitment

During your time volunteering with the ASF, you will be asked to participate in training relevant to your role, some of which may be mandatory. Mandatory training will relate to the specific work a volunteer agrees to carry out, safeguarding and Infection prevention and Control totaling 4 hours.

Once trained the commitment expected will be approximately 2 hours per week depending on the particular needs of the person you are supporting. The times of volunteering will be agreed in advance and can be flexible around the person you are supporting and your own availability.

Location

Training and Induction can take place online or in a location suitable for all parties

Benefits to the Volunteer

• Personal and professional development
• Opportunity to support people who are deafblind achieve their goals
• Learn new skills including sign language, tactile sign language, augmentative communication and sighted guide mobility support
• Induction and Training
• Support and Supervision
• Respect and acknowledgement as making a valuable contribution to the development of The Anne Sullivan Foundation Outreach service

Application Process

If you are interested in joining our team of Volunteers or would like to find out more about our services please contact Stephen Sheppard by email at info@annesullivancentre.ie or by phone on 0864034578

Closing date for applications is Friday May 3rd 2024 at 5pm

All our Volunteer positions are subject to reference checks and Garda