Larch Volunteer - Kingston Eco-op

The Larch is a social club based at Kingston Library, aimed at bringing adults with high functioning autism together in a safe place where they can be themselves, express their thoughts & feelings and build friendship with others who understand their experiences. As a volunteer you are there to assist our staff and facilitate bringing the members of the club together through shared interests, games or conversation.

Independence through practice

The Larch Club is intended to be a social club that is run by and for the members as much as possible. Moreso than other social care projects, staff and volunteers aim to act as a catalyst for change, providing the sparks that ignite strong social ties between the members so that they can learn to support each other rather than relying on staff input. For anyone that is really struggling through a difficult time, staff can and will signpost members to places where they can get the help they need.

Local contacts and help from partners

We understand that building positive change for minority groups takes a network of contacts to make the biggest impact. The Larch Club works closely with the Royal Borough of Kingston, the Autism partnership board, Healthwatch Kingston and YourHealthcare among others. We invite guests and speakers to join us at the Larch, doing what we can to make the voices of those with experience of autism heard in places that affect change in the local area.

Skills and experience you need

Ideally a volunteer for the Larch would have experience of autism, ADHD or other kinds of neurodiversity either on a personal or professional basis. We will provide an induction and training is available. If you have no experience but are a people person who is great at listening, can be non judgemental to different points of view and wants to make an impact on the lives of a local minority group, get in touch with us! Enthusiasm, empathy and a love of conversation will go a long way.

To apply for the Larch please click here. To discuss volunteering at the Larch, call Leeni Szalay-Winter on 07393378833 or email leeni@kingstoneco-op.org.uk

The Larch club is a drop-in. Members will attend at a pace that suits them. The important part is we create a welcoming environment that understands the needs of adults with high functioning autism.

The activities at the Larch are meant to be a fun way for members to keep active and reduce the difficulties of social boundaries. We know that people with autism can find social situations challenging for a variety of reasons. Playing games together helps people connect.

The Larch Club members do not need the level of support that is often found in adult social care projects. Our intention is to facilitate positive social interaction to foster friendship and connection.

Click here for more information about how to apply