Volunteering
Volunteering is an integral part of Very Special Kids.
Our community of very special volunteers has significant impact on the seriously ill children and families in our care. In fact, we couldn’t operate without them. They are the backbone of our organisation and make a real difference – not least the smiles they bring to hundreds of children and their families who are going through the toughest of times.
Being a volunteer has many benefits – from finding purpose and building skills to developing life-long friendships. And did we mention sense of belonging?
Volunteering with Very Special Kids will take you on a journey that you will never forget or regret!
If you have any queries
Get in touch hereWhat our volunteers say
Very Special Kids provides such wonderful support for children and families, in a multitude of ways. It is really special to be able to contribute at a volunteer level. I love interacting with the children. To take them for a walk, play with them, read a story or just cuddle. I feel like I make a difference in their day. I also really value the way the staff make you feel part of the team. They are such a caring, dedicated group
Dianne
Explore volunteer roles
If you’d like to learn more
Enquire hereFAQ
Why does Very Special Kids engage volunteers?
Simply put, without volunteers we would not be able to provide the services we do free of charge at a time when seriously ill children and their families need it the most.
Who can volunteer at Very Special Kids?
Virtually anyone over the age of 18 can volunteer at Very Special Kids. We are a vibrant, diverse and inclusive organisation, and encourage volunteers of all backgrounds, skills and life experiences to get involved.
How much time do I need to commit as a volunteer?
The time you commit to volunteer with us is entirely up to you! Most volunteers balance their Very Special Kids role around family, work and social commitments.
We do ask for one commitment – that you volunteer for 12 months, so you can develop stronger relationships with the staff, children and families in our care.
Do I need any special skills to get started?
No – there are no special skills required for the majority of volunteer roles and thorough training is provided. All we ask is that you make a genuine commitment and are empathetic for the children and families that we support.
How do I apply, and what happens next?
Applying is quick and easy. Simply submit an enquiry through the button above, and we will send you an informative video about the different ways you can get involved. Once you have processed all the information from that session, you will be able to complete the application form. This is where you can let us know who you are and the types of volunteering opportunities you’re interested in. Our volunteer team will then advise next steps.
What’s the onboarding process? Are any special checks required?
Yes – as a charity committed to children’s safety and wellbeing our onboarding process includes:
- An interview (or conversation) with us
- Reference checks with two to three referees
- A National Police Check
- A state-based Working with Children Check
Is training and support provided to volunteers?
Yes, training is provided. All volunteers undergo training relevant to their roles and are continued to be supported throughout their volunteer journey. Very Special Kids prides itself on our award-winning and thorough volunteer training.
What kinds of things do volunteers do?
Volunteers can help in all areas of Very Special Kids – click here to learn about the different ways you can get involved.