An outline of the procedure
Our volunteers make a big commitment when they go to India, and a huge contribution to the work at Roshni. We value this very much, and so endeavour to help them be fully prepared for the challenges they will face in Gwalior.
All volunteers are interviewed, and we collect references and obtain a Disclosure and Barring Service check (previously a CRB) for them.
We then spend time with them helping to prepare for their placement. We prefer to do this preparation over several sessions (usually evenings or weekends, in Manchester), but for volunteers who live further away this can be done in one full day (including the interview if necessary). This preparation includes help with the practicalities (such as transport and health), cultural awareness, and planning the work you will be undertaking at Roshni.
Working at Roshni
Volunteers tend to be involved with all aspects of the work at Roshni, including hands-on work with the children (focused on the volunteers’ skill areas) in the Early Intervention, Autism, Primary and Vocational Training Groups. There may also be some work with out-patients, and occasional home and school visits. Volunteers also get involved with administration, and help at lunch time, training days, school trips and cultural events. The work is varied, and you will have the chance to help the staff develop their skills in your particular area of expertise, as well as having the opportunity to develop your own skills in other areas.
A typical working day is from 9.00-4.00. The centre is open from Monday to Saturday, although we encourage our volunteers to take one long weekend off every month to visit other places in India.
