Volunteering
The Special Olympics movement relies on volunteers. They coach, organise, provide care, play and cheer alongside athletes.
Why get involved
Volunteering helps people with intellectual disabilities train, compete and make progress. It also means sharing moments of sport, effort and joy, and watching athletes grow in confidence.
Volunteering changes volunteers too. Working alongside athletes, you see what they can achieve. And you help build a more inclusive society.
Coaches, health professionals, students, parents: everyone can give a little of their time. Get in touch to join the team.
Ways to get involved
Coach
Coaches lead training sessions throughout the year and prepare athletes for competition. They help each athlete progress at their own pace.
Event volunteer
Welcoming people, logistics, timekeeping, cheering: competitions and sports days need many hands to run smoothly.
Health professional
Doctors, dentists, nurses, physiotherapists: health professionals carry out screenings for athletes and give advice to families.
Unified partner
In Unified Sports, people without intellectual disabilities play on the same team as athletes. As full teammates, Unified partners train and compete alongside them.
Family
Families are athletes’ first supporters. They come with them to training and competitions, and can take part in the life of the programme.