SEND Parent Volunteers needed at The Parent House. Join us!
Volunteers staff and children on our sponsored walk
We are an award winning charity who are celebrating 25 years in Islington this year. We believe in parent’s capabilities to help themselves and others, and we know that when parents thrive, children thrive.
We are looking for Islington parents of children who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to join us as SEND Buddy Volunteers. You will complete an 8 week course of interactive and facilitated training, alongside other SEND parents, and will learn how to safely support other parents with SEND children. Then you will volunteer for us by supporting other SEND parents at our site.
We train SEND parents to do this volunteer work because we have found that SEND parents have a wealth of experience on finding their way through complicated SEND systems. We believe that SEND parents are experts through experience and are often the best people to support other SEND parents
We also believe in the power of groups and teamwork,
One parent told us
‘Parent united group is the first group I actually feel like I have a place in, for the first time in my life’ Volunteer parent 2024
This volunteering opportunity starts in January 2026 , you will be part of a facilitated group of volunteers from January 21st to March 18th . You will attend 8 training sessions on Wednesday mornings from 9.30am to 12.15pm, at these sessions you will,
Meet a team of Islington parents, who share your concerns
Develop your communication skills, with a focus on listening
Learn how to use The Parent House’s systems
Explore your values and your knowledge
Learn about Islington services
Have fun and use creative communication methods
Receive a Parent House Level 1 certificate
We also support parents with their other needs including foodbanks, free clothes and links into useful services.
The second term is from April to July 2026, with the support of Parent House workers, you will begin your volunteering,
Providing a listening ear to parents of SEND children.
Helping parents understand and access SEND services
Signposting Islington parents to SEND services
Developing a CV
Supporting parents in developing advocacy skills for school meetings and appointments.
Receiving one to one support and supervision
Receiving a Parent House level 2 certificate
We like our volunteers to stay with us for a year.
One of the volunteers from our Parent Voice team told us,
‘Most important is connecting with others. I know I need it and it’s improved my confidence. I appreciate it.’
For more information or to book your place contact,
Or call 0207 837 1387