Volunteer Hub

So you know exactly what you’re walking into — no surprises, no pressure.

🧭 Before you arrive

• You’ll receive event details ahead of time (location, timing, and any updates)

• Sessions are held once a month on a Sunday

• You don’t need to prepare anything in advance unless we specifically mention it

🤝 When you arrive

• You’ll be greeted and given a quick run-through of the space

• We’ll explain your role for the session (it may change slightly depending on needs that day)

• You’ll be introduced to key areas like:

  • Sensory zones

  • Calm spaces

  • Activity stations

  • Entry/check-in

🌈 During the session

• The environment is child-led and low-pressure

• Some children may be non-speaking, some may be highly energetic, some may need quiet space

• Your role might include:

  • Helping set up or reset activities

  • Supporting sensory play

  • Keeping an eye on spaces

  • Helping families feel welcome

  • Stepping in where an extra pair of calm hands is needed

There’s no expectation to “entertain” children — just to support a safe, steady environment.

🧠 Important to know

• Every child is different, and regulation comes first

• Sometimes the best support is giving space rather than interaction

• You’ll always have a lead contact on the day if you’re unsure about anything

• It’s okay to ask questions — we’d rather that than assumptions

💛 The vibe we aim for

Think:

• calm, not chaotic

• supportive, not performative

• flexible, not rigid

• community, not corporate

If you’re kind, patient, and willing to be present — you’ll fit right in.

At Autism Dad, the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a welcoming, respectful, and child-safe environment for all families attending our events, playdates, workshops, and community activities.

1. Child Safety Commitment

Autism Dad has zero tolerance for child abuse, harm, neglect, discrimination, bullying, or unsafe behaviour of any kind. All children have the right to feel safe, respected, supported, and included regardless of ability, diagnosis, culture, gender, communication style, or support needs.

We are committed to:

• Listening to and respecting children and families

• Promoting inclusive and neuroaffirming practices

• Providing safe and sensory-considerate environments

• Maintaining appropriate supervision during activities

• Responding promptly to safety concerns or incidents

2. Parent / Carer Responsibility

Autism Dad events are family-supported community events and are not drop-off services unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Parents, carers, or support workers remain responsible for:

• Supervising the child/children in their care at all times

• Managing toileting, feeding, medication, and personal care needs

• Supporting emotional regulation where required

• Informing organisers of any significant safety concerns, allergies, or behaviours that may impact participation

Children must remain within sight of their supervising adult unless otherwise arranged with organisers.

3. Supervision Standards

To help maintain a safe environment:

• Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times

• Higher-risk activities (water play, climbing equipment, cooking activities, excursions, etc.) may require closer one-to-one supervision

• Organisers and volunteers assist in maintaining overall event safety but do not replace parental supervision responsibilities

• Any unsafe behaviour, wandering risks, aggressive behaviour, or hazards should be reported to organisers immediately

4. Volunteers & Team Members

All Autism Dad volunteers and team members working directly with children are expected to:

• Hold a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) where required

• Follow respectful and appropriate boundaries with children

• Avoid being alone with a child where possible

• Report any child safety concerns immediately

• Promote inclusive and supportive interactions

5. Photography & Privacy

Photos or videos may only be taken respectfully and with consent where appropriate. Families are encouraged to avoid photographing other children without permission from their parents or carer.

6. Safe & Inclusive Environment

We strive to create spaces that are:

• Neuroaffirming and judgement-free

• Sensory considerate where possible

• Inclusive of all communication styles and support needs

• Supportive of emotional regulation and movement needs

Families are encouraged to communicate any accommodations or support requirements before or during events.

7. Reporting Concerns

Any child safety concern, incident, injury, or inappropriate behaviour should be reported to an Autism Dad organiser as soon as possible so appropriate action can be taken.

Autism Dad reserves the right to ask individuals to leave an event if behaviour places children, families, volunteers, or staff at risk.