Sheffield Autistic Society have received this invitation:
Computer Club is a project run by students from Sheffield University’s Volunteering Service . I am writing to you since we are currently advertising for new members and I was wondering whether the club may be of interest to any of the members of your support group.
Computer Club is a weekly project which involves student volunteers working on a one-to-one basis with children aged 8-16 years old and with an autistic spectrum disorder, as well as their siblings. All volunteers complete training, including child safeguarding and autism awareness, prior to starting. The club takes place on Saturday mornings during university term time. We have found that it can be a very positive experience for children, rewarding for volunteers, and great fun for all!
I have attached an information sheet (see below) which gives further details about the club.
If you would like to find out more, please get in touch with Helen, our Coordinator from Sheffield Volunteering, using the contact details provided on the sheet. We will be pleased to discuss the project further with you or with any parents/carers who are interested!
Many thanks and kind regards,
Lili Bidari
What is Computer Club?
Computer Club is run by students from The University of Sheffield’s Volunteering Service. The project is designed for local children aged 8-16 who are classified on the Autistic Spectrum and their siblings.
What do you do?
Each Child is seated at their own computer with a volunteer to assist them. They are provided with a selection of computer games on the computer club website and also have access to find something else which may interest them.
Volunteers work on a one to one basis with the children. They are there to assist them in how to use the computers and help them play games. Children are also encouraged to discuss what they are doing and to maintain general conversation.
Every volunteer is a member of The University and must have completed training in safeguarding children, behaviour management, safe restraint and autism awareness. In addition a clear enhanced CRB are required. The teams of volunteers work on a 2-week rota and 2-3 project leaders oversee each session and organise the club.
When and where does it take place?
Computer club takes place during university term time on Saturday Mornings in Firth Court at Sheffield University. Parents and Carers are asked to stay in a room near to the children where there will be tea, coffee and biscuits available.
Each week that the club runs, there are two sessions in the morning. The first session takes place between 9.45am and 10.45am. There is then a 15 minute break during which the children are offered juice and biscuits. The second session runs between 11am and 12pm. The children are welcome to attend either of the sessions, and we endeavor to give the option of staying for both sessions wherever possible.
Anything else?
We have found that computer club it is a great way to help the confidence and communication abilities of the children whilst they are having fun. For some children the use of a computer can help to break the intimidation of face-to-face conversation as well as develop their skills at using the internet and computers. The project also provides children with the opportunity to make new friends and as a parent/carer can help you meet other adults in a similar situation to you.
What does it cost?
Absolutely Nothing! The club is funded by the University of Sheffield’s Students’ Union.
If you are interested…
If you would like to join computer club we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Helen on 0114 222 85 47