Volunteer
Would you like to make a real difference to people with learning disabilities and autistic people?
At Talkback, we need volunteers to be able to keep giving our Talkback members the opportunities they deserve. Could you make a real difference to people’s lives while having fun, making new friends, and learning new skills along the way?
Some of our current volunteering opportunities
Chair of Trustees
We are looking for a new Chair to lead a highly motivated group of trustees to support our inspiring charity for people with autism or a learning disability.
At Talkback we seek to enable everyone with autism or a learning disability to lead the fulfilling lives that they want and contribute to their local community.
Our organisation began 24 years ago to give people with a learning disability a voice. In response to the needs of the people we support as well as new legislation and the requirements of local and national government, we have diversified, developed and grown to become a highly successful organisation that delivers a wide range of projects across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.
We support people aged 16+, helping them to define and achieve their life objectives through services such as education, health & wellbeing and employment support. We provide a social network as well as a range of opportunities to engage in sport, woodwork, art and drama.
We employ around 70 staff along with a dedicated group of volunteers. They are led by a highly experienced CEO and a motivated leadership group. Supporting these professionals is a trustee group with a wide range of experience. Talkback has adapted and survived through challenging times. Government funding has always been limited and continues to be so, requiring us to identify alternative sources of funding and be imaginative in our approach to delivery.
We are looking for a Chair who is motivated to make a real difference to the lives of people who often face disadvantage and to offer leadership and help shape the strategic direction of Talkback. If you are someone who relishes a challenge, then leading the Board of Trustees at Talkback could be just what you are looking for. You will work with a group of like-minded, passionate, experienced, and friendly people.
The role is within Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, though most Board meetings are remote and would require around 5 hours of your time each month, as well as visits to charity services and events.
To learn more about this role please contact Helen Black – helen.black@talkback-uk.com for further information and for the opportunity to speak to the current Chair. Alternatively please complete the attached form and send it to Helen at the above email address.
Closing date: 8th March 2024
The Accessible Workshop
Weekdays between 9.30am and 3.30pm in High Wycombe
We are looking for a volunteer to help at our social enterprise, the Accessible workshop. We are looking for someone who has knowledge, interest or experience of DIY, woodworking, craft or trade skills.
The Talkback Drama Group
Weekdays between 9.30am and 3.30pm in Aylesbury
We are seeking a volunteer to work with our drama group to support the group leaders, helping members to have fun and get as much from the group as possible. And even build sets!
What do we need and what do we offer?
For all roles, volunteers will need to undertake a DBS for the role, which Talkback will arrange. As well as undertaking necessary training (we will offer support). You may have experience (personal or work) of supporting people with a learning disability or autism though this is not essential. You will need to have a calm and flexible approach. In return we offer trial sessions, a full induction, ongoing support and supervision. As well as a comprehensive training package
Whether you have a passion for drama or an interest in the arts, skills in woodwork, would like to help people be more active or just would like to hear more about how you can get involved, please get in touch. We can help find the right role for you.
For information on volunteering and what we can offer please contact:
Come and join us:
At Talkback we make it our mission:
“To help autistic people and people with a learning disability embrace new opportunities, lead the fulfilling lives they want and actively contribute to their community.”
When my son became involved with Talkback I saw his confidence grow and observed him learning new skills. The challenges he was encouraged to do, without any pressure, added a new dimension to his world.
We have so many different volunteering opportunities that we’d love for you to just get in touch.
