Purpose of role

Advonet's Learning Disability services offer a variety of programs for individuals with learning disabilities in Leeds. Our initiatives are designed to empower and amplify the voices of those we serve. 

We provide day services for adults with learning disabilities, creating an environment that encourages creativity, supports mental and physical wellbeing, fosters independence, and strengthens friendships. 

Our commitment is to ensure that our services, along with the voices of people with learning disabilities, remain at the heart of everything we do. Our Steering Group will play a pivotal role in influencing our direction. 

Duties/activities

You will be required to attend regular meetings and share your thoughts and opinions about the services and projects that we provide within Learning Disability services at Advonet.

Key skills/qualities a volunteer needs for this role

  • Lived experience of a learning disability
  • Willingness to share your views and experiences openly
  • Ability to listen to and respect the views of others
  • Interest in helping shape and improve services for people with learning disabilities
  • Ability to work as part of a group
  • No previous experience required — just your ideas and perspective matter

Requirements of role (checks and training)

We will provide all necessary training and support for volunteers to carry out and develop in their role. We also know volunteers will bring experiences, skills and knowledge that we, individually and as a team, will be able to learn from. The induction and training will include: 

  • Volunteer Induction Training (4hrs)  

After training and induction, you will continue to receive ongoing support and guidance and regular supervisions. 

Travel expenses are covered by the organisation. A lunch voucher is also provided when working in the office. If out at external venues, costs for food up to £5 will be reimbursed.  

Time commitment required

Meetings held approximately every 2 months. 

Each meeting lasts around 1–2 hours. 

Location: Advonet Office, Leeds

Easy Read meeting notes and agendas will be provided.

How to apply:

Interested people are invited to complete the Volunteering Enquiry Form, found by clicking on the button below. One of our friendly team will then be in contact with more information.

What happens next?

You will then be invited to an informal meeting where you will meet our Volunteer Coordinator and be issued with a Volunteering Application Pack. The informal meeting can be via phone call, Zoom/Teams or in-person.

Once we receive your completed Volunteer Application form, we will contact your specified Referees for a reference and conduct a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.

Please Note – A DBS check is required for anyone working with vulnerable people – either paid or on a voluntary basis. We ask that you are open and honest with us from the very beginning and talk to us about any concerns you might have. Once these documents are completed, your induction training will begin.

Contact us:

Alexis Ragaliauskas, Volunteer Coordinator – Learning Disability Services