Spectrum supports children with disabilities by partnering them up with two medical students who spend a couple of hours with them every fortnight. Our volunteers engage with the children by partaking in a variety of activities/trips/outings (all catered towards the child and family's interests) This gives freedom for the child to pursue their interests and passions, but also try new things which they may not have done before allowing them to develop in independence and confidence.
Two students are linked to one child between the age of 5-18.
Spectrum also runs an annual residential 3-day weekend trip in February, which has been successfully running for many years and is a highlight for volunteers, children, and their families. The trip involves a mix of stimulating and team-building activities such as rock climbing, zip wire, archery and many more. Our volunteers work hard to provide 24-hour care for the children to ensure that they can enjoy all the activities and remain safe.
To befriend children in the Camden area who have mental and physical disabilities and to provide them with opportunities that they may otherwise not have access to. This also enables parents to have a small amount of respite, so it is for the benefit of the children, parents, and you as volunteers!
We expect you to regularly visit your link (we recommend at least one visit every two weeks) and take part in activities appropriate to the child's interests and abilities. We also run various group trips to the cinema, bowling and theme parks etc.
This comprises of a safeguarding training with a pediatrician and an introduction to Spectrum training.