Frequently asked questions
Do I need any special qualifications to become a volunteer aunt or uncle?
You do need to be over 21 years of age, have a friendly, caring nature and a genuine liking for children. All aunts and uncles go through an assessment and training process based on the needs of the children in the Mentoring Program.
Can I volunteer to be an aunt or uncle if I am single or have no children of my own?
Yes, single aunts and uncles are welcome. Many of the children come from single parent families (usually mum). Adult role models, particularly males in the case of young boys, are important.
What impact is my volunteering likely to have on my own children?
You best know the values you wish to impart to your children and by volunteering to help another family in need, you are setting a great example. We find most children who have grown up with ´volunteering´, also go on to volunteer as adults.
How do you ensure a good match between adults and children?
After the volunteer has been fully assessed and trained, "Links" are built up slowly, with initial informal visits (up to three) arranged by the child´s parent/s. Taking the responsibility to set up these informal meetings reassures the parent/s that they are just as much a part of the program and will work with the aunt/ uncle to build a better life for the child/children. It is vital that all parties - the child, parent and volunteers feel comfortable with each other.
What if we don´t click?
Our Co-ordinators are experienced welfare workers and try hard to match all parties with their likes/dislikes so the relationship grows as naturally as possible. However, if either party finds that they ´don´t click´ at the first or second meeting, do not view this as failure! Better to discover this early in the matching process.
Is the child expected to stay overnight?
Overnight stays are optional and certain requirements should be met before they take place. It is generally recommended that they do not commence until the relationship has been in place for at least 6 months and the child feels comfortable in the new household. In the interests of all parties we do not allow overnight stays with single uncles.
Are aunts and uncles paid when they have a child stay with them?
No. Unlike foster caring, the success of the program is based on the altruistic motivation of the aunts and uncles and their commitment to building a better life for children. We do not encourage spending money on the child except of course to provide meals. Your positive social and life skills are your greatest assets.
What happens in the case of personal or property damage?
Aunts and uncles are provided with the child´s emergency contacts and medical history. In the case of injury, appropriate medical assistance should be sought immediately and parent/s contacted. Aunties & Uncles® carries Voluntary Workers Personal Accident Insurance for injury sustained by the volunteer and/or the child registered in the Aunties & Uncles program. However, property (housing, vehicles) is not covered.
What if I/we suspect a child is being mistreated?
We advise that you contact your Co-ordinator immediately in all matters of concern. Aunties & Uncles is required to report all cases to DoCS where risk of harm to the child is identified either directly or indirectly. As a community member, you are also able to make a report to the DoCS Helpline if unable to make immediate contact with your Co-ordinator. Child Protection Issues are covered in the Aunties & Uncles Volunteer Training Program.
