Volunteers Needed To Help Adults With Learning Disabilities Enjoy an Active Social Life.
The Stay Up Late charity needs volunteers for their Gig Buddies project in Storrington.
Launched in 2006, the Stay Up Late charity was formed with the aim of supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autism to be less socially isolated and lead healthier and more fulfilled lives.
Stay Up Late launched the Gig Buddies project in 2013. Gig Buddies’ coordinator Malcolm Hill says, “We know that this is not just healthier for individuals, it’s healthier for communities too. It’s about seeing past labels and getting to know individuals and encouraging them to take their rightful place in the community”.
In Storrington and across West Sussex Gig Buddies have a number of participants keen to get out to gigs, cinema, theatre or even just a meal and a drink in the pub – activities that many of us take for granted. They are keen to hear from anyone over 18 with an interest in cultural activities who can spare around 12 hours a month and who would like to find out more about becoming a Gig Buddy volunteer.
Malcolm says, “We know from our existing volunteers that they have great time and many have formed enduring friendships in the process”.
One of Gig Buddies participants sums up the benefits of the scheme like this, “Before I had a Gig Buddy I felt lost at the weekends. I had never been to a gig but having a Gig Buddy has meant that I’ve discovered new music. It means that I can travel to places I couldn’t before. Once you start going out you are more able to do other things. It improves your confidence”.
Potential volunteers can apply via the charity’s website (https://gigbuddies.org.uk/become-gig-buddy/). Following an interview applicants are DBS checked and fully trained before being matched. Alternatively phone or email Malcolm for an informal chat. He can be contacted via email malcolm@stayuplate.org or phone 07514 622204.
Stay Up Late is a registered charity (England & Wales, No. 1145040)