Role description
Our Befriending Volunteers work in the community, bringing with them their work or lived experience and a friendly disposition, to help reduce loneliness.
We are looking for volunteers who can offer from as little as 1 hour per week between 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, for a minimum of 6 months, to have weekly contact and provide companionship to someone experiencing loneliness. Anything from a weekly phone call or meeting up for a cup of tea, to attending a community group or joining a friendship group, can make such a difference to a lonely and isolated person.
In return, we will provide all our Befriending Volunteers with initial bespoke training and an enhanced DBS check, in preparation for the role. There will also be ongoing support and opportunities to socially connect with other Befriending Volunteers.
Role of Befriending Volunteer
- To have regular contact with the individual: over the phone, in a community setting or, in certain circumstances, visiting them in their own home.
- To build a meaningful relationship and help an individual to improve their wellbeing through social connection. This role is unique to every individual's needs and circumstances, and we will endeavour to match you to someone with similar interests, hobbies and background.
- To provide relevant feedback on the progression of your role and that of your matched person.
Criteria
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Availability between 9am-5pm Monday-Friday
- Commitment of 1-2 hours minimum per week / flexible
- Minimum commitment of 6 months is required (with the exception of planned holidays/illness)
- Understanding of the impact of loneliness and isolation on an individual’s health and wellbeing
- Adhere to confidentiality at all times
Personal Qualities
- A friendly and understanding approach
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Enjoy meeting new people
- Desire to give back to the community
- Ability to use own initiative
- Respect and consideration for others
As a Befriending Volunteer, you will not
- Undertake personal care tasks
- Provide moving and handling support (i.e. lifting person / pushing wheelchair)
- Become involved in financial or personal matters
- Administer medication or tend to medical needs
- Undertake jobs around the home (i.e. gardening / cleaning / DIY)
- Be expected to have unscheduled contact (outside of the agreed times/days)
If you are interested in the Befriending Volunteer role and would like to know more about it or wish to proceed with an application, you can contact the Befriending Co-ordinator on: 01253 887290 or use the volunteer enquiry form.