Our Technical Volunteer designs, makes or modifies aids and equipment for people with a disability or the frail aged when there is no commercial solution available. Volunteers undertake project work in their own homes and sheds using their own tools.

This volunteering opportunity is perfect for retired or still working trades people, engineers or those who simply like to tinker and invent at home. Their role will be to undertake projects as assigned by our Freedom Solutions Project Coordinators. Throughout a project the Technical Volunteer is supported by,and works under the direction of the Project Coordinator. At times other volunteers may also review another volunteer’s project.

The opportunity

• Design, construct and/or modify aids and equipment for individuals with disabilities in your own maker space at home

• Participate as a team member with the Freedom Solutions Project Coordinator, clients, carers or other health professionals (and volunteers if required). Attend appointment/s with the Project Coordinator to discuss the project requirements with the client at their home, school or where ever the aid/equipment will be used.

Examples of projects

• Wheelchair Modifications: Modifying or customizing wheelchairs, such as creating custom trays, modifying footplates, adding accessories like sun canopies or wheelchair bags, and adapting exercise pedals for wheelchair use.

• Mobility Aid Adaptations: Adapting or modifying mobility aids, including trikes, walkers, scooters, and bikes, to suit the specific needs of individuals.

• Accessibility Solutions: Projects improving accessibility, such as designing steps for home, bathroom, kitchen, and trampoline access. Modifications for beds, chairs, tables, and workstations to enhance accessibility and functionality.

• Assistive Devices: Creating assistive devices like hand gripping aids, page turners, sensory boards, book stands, and modified exercise equipment to improve independence and participation in various activities.

• Sports and Recreation Adaptations: Modifications to support participation in recreational activities, including gaming adaptations, custom support for gaming, trampolines, golf bags and wheelbarrows.

• Personal Care and Daily Living Aids: Modifications for personal care, such as toilet platforms with rails, bed surrounds, shower commode accessories, kneeling/sitting garden chairs and dressing aids.

• Education and School-related Projects: Customizations and adaptations for schools, such as school chairs, art easels, trampoline steps, and platforms.

• Miscellaneous Projects: Unique or specialized requests like designing controller setups, mountings for various devices, oxygen cylinder holders, boccie baskets, sewing machine trolleys, and equipment modifications.

• Assistive technology solutions aimed at enhancing mobility, accessibility, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals with diverse needs.

Time Involved Our projects are on an ad hoc basis depending on your skills set and location. All project work can be done at your home or in our maker space in Northmead or Abbotsford if you chose.

Benefits:

*The opportunity to use your technical skills to greatly assist our clients

*The opportunity to join our Hunter branch of volunteers and connect with like minded people