Somerset Parent Partnership values the contributions of volunteers known as Independent Parental Supporters (IPS) to support our service.

Please complete the online form below if you are interested in becoming a volunteer for us and wish to have an information pack sent to you.

For an informal discussion about becoming a volunteer, please phone the IPS Co-ordinator, Kathy Pearce, on 01823 356066 or download our                Volunteer leaflet  (561Kb, opens in new window)

Volunteering as an IPS to support parents and carers of children with SEN, usually includes:

• being a listening ear;
• offering advice on the SEN assessment process;
• signposting parents to other agencies who may also offer help;
• accompanying parents to meetings;
• helping parents to complete education forms; and
• providing information and advice on a range of SEN issues.

Are you...

• sensitive in dealing with confidential issues;
• reliable;
• a good communicator;
• enthusiastic and friendly;
• interested in the issues surrounding children with additional/special educational needs;
• interested and motivated in helping to support the parents of such children; and
• a good listener?

In return Somerset Parent Partnership offers you:

• The opportunity to join a small and committed team who work to support the families of children with special educational needs. 
• An induction training course with the Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC) which is nationally recognised.
• Expenses for work-related travel and phone calls.
• A training programme on the SEN Code of Practice, the Disability Discrimination Act, local education policy and the role of Parent Partnership.
• Termly support sessions covering a wide range of topics related to special educational needs