Family Services Volunteer Training Program

April 22, 2020

Volunteers are at the heart of Very Special Kids. Their commitment to supporting families is unwavering and inspiring. In 2019, 89 individuals completed the nine week training course to be a qualified Very Special Kids Family Services Volunteer.

The training course is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to provide support for families who have a child with a life-threatening condition. The program supports everyone involved, from the parents, siblings, to the very special child and also the volunteer.

The training focuses on
– Communication and listening skills
– Loss and grief
– Interacting with children
– How Very Special Kids helps families access the support programs and services that are available to them

The training sessions are run by qualified Family Support Practitioners with special guests from families, children and other volunteers to provide first-hand stories and experiences with potential new volunteers.

Alan Hall has been volunteering with Very Special Kids for 12 years, directly in the home with a family and also with sibling day activities and the annual Family Christmas Party. Alan said “the volunteer training programs are outstanding. They not only prepare volunteers for effective service, they contribute to worthwhile personal grown and development”.

Our volunteers are a crucial part of the Very Special Kids team and provide an invaluable service to families. Upon successful completion of the training program, volunteers can choose to support families in the home, hospice or at the hospital.

You can hear more from our wonderful volunteers in our latest newsletter here.