We’re looking for like-minded people who share our passion to support us with the Autism Friends campaign by either becoming an Autism Friends Champion or Lead to help promote the understanding and acceptance of autism.
Both roles can also get involved in a variety of other activities depending on your interest and availability. These could include things like posting on social media, putting up posters in your local community or volunteering at market stall events across the borough. There are lots of ways to get involved.
Autism Lead role
As an Autism Friends Lead, you will be trained to deliver Autism Awareness sessions and encourage others to make a positive difference to people living with autism in their community. Additionally, if you work in a large organisation, or if you’re a training provider, having someone internal delivering Autism Friends sessions could be beneficial for your organisation, new members of staff and students.
Autism Champion role
The new Autism Friends Champion role is all about promoting Autism Friends sessions and encouraging people to become an Autism Friend in general conversations in your day-to-day life. It's also about sharing information such as sharing our newsletters or social media posts with your workplace or community.
Do I need to be an autism expert?
No, definitely not. Anyone who can make a commitment, large or small, to help people spread awareness can become a volunteer.
We're looking for people who:
- Genuinely have the time to run Autism Friends awareness sessions and reach as many people as possible
- Ability to lead a professional discussion
- Be a good communicator and speak objectively about autism
- Ability to inspire and motivate people.
You must be aged 18 or over to volunteer.
Will there be training?
Yes, full training and support will be provided. This includes:
- Introductory online training
- In-person training on how to deliver your session
- Autism Lead resource handbook
- Ongoing support from the team whenever you need it.
How do I apply to be a volunteer?
All you need to do is fill in our simple online form.