Sign in to view your email alerts and activity

Sign in

To view your email alerts and activity.
We will send you an email to confirm your email address.

Logo for Intellectual Disability Rights Service

The Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) is currently looking for Volunteers to assist clients with Cognitive Impairment who are incarcerated at a NSW Correctional Centre. The JAS volunteers provides in-person support to suspects and defendants who are appearing at Court and/or legal meeting via an Audio Visual Link (AVL). AVL supports require someone that is extremely patient and self-directed to support the client. Some supports require lengthy wait times before the Court is ready and you are called to support and engage with the client. This volunteering opportunity is great for someone that enjoys reading and wanting to give back to their community in a unique way. Volunteers will also be trained and able to perform standard Court, police station and/or legal meeting supports if they wish to do so.

What does a JAS volunteer do?

• Helps the person understand their rights and consequences of exercising them • Helps the person understand outcomes, including Court orders and bail conditions • Assists with communication with lawyers, Court and Correctional Centre staff • Makes lawyers aware of the person’s support needs • Helps the person complete paperwork • Provides emotional support • Provides feedback to the Justice Advocate about follow up required for the client

The JAS is a program of the Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS). IDRS provides free services for people with cognitive impairment across NSW providing help with legal problems. We work alongside people with cognitive impairment to promote and protect their rights. More information and direct applications can be found on the IDRS website.

Volunteers must be flexible and have availability 9am-5pm during week days. Volunteers will receive comprehensive training enabling them to effectively support clients with Cognitive Impairment who are currently incarcerated at a NSW Correctional Centre, attending Court or in custody at a Police station. Potential volunteers will possess a tolerant and empathetic manner, developed and effective communication and listening skills, along with an understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.

This is a long term volunteering position requiring a minimum commitment of 12 months. IDRS is a Centrelink approved organisation.

Would you like to truly make a difference in your community?

You can not apply for this role as it is no longer available.