Set up over 30 years ago this charity aims to offer comprehensive rehabilitation of orthopaedically disabled children from underprivileged backgrounds through surgery, physiotherapy, mobility aids, education and pre-vocational training. They are looking for volunteers that can help to brighten up the children’s day through games and activities while they prepare for their operations and whilst they recuperate. The charity would also like volunteers to help teach the staff basic spoken English to increase their confidence.
Your Role: You would be spending part of your day helping the children do fun activities and games and crafts as they will be recuperating from operations and will be mostly stuck inside. The children can be at the centre for one or two months or upto 8 or 9 months depending on the severity of their disorder.
There is also a school for the children who are in the next stage of recuperation and they will appreciate your time and energy as well. The school is painted with bright colours and is a nice environment for the children to learn. It is only for the children of the centre while they under go pre-operation preparation and for those being rehabilitated after their operation. The school is open approximately from 9.30am to lunchtime.
The afternoons can be spent helping the staff at the project improve their spoken English. You will be able to do this in small groups to help improve their self-confidence and communication skills.
What you Gain: This project is a chance to help children recuperate from painful orthopaedic operations and bring a smile to their face and cheer them up. You will be using your imagination and creativity every day. You will also gain confidence in planning and organising lessons and activities for the children and adults.
Skills and Experience required
- Energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
- An interest in helping children recuperate from operations.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
- Empathy and understanding.
- Patience in dealing with children and staff who may not understand your language
or accent.
- Proactive in relation to your work.
- Must be over 18 by the date of departure.