Community Support Volunteer Needed – Lancaster

Community Support Volunteer Needed – Lancaster

Could you help someone take their first steps towards reconnecting with their community?

We are looking for a friendly, patient and reliable volunteer to support an adult living in Lancaster who would benefit from building confidence and becoming more involved in activities outside the home.

The individual enjoys creative interests and would value support from someone who can offer encouragement, companionship and a gentle, gradual approach. Initial visits would take place at home to build trust and confidence before progressing to short walks, exploring local opportunities and attending activities together where appropriate.

We are seeking a volunteer who:

• Is friendly, approachable and a good listener.
• Can provide encouragement and emotional support.
• Is patient and understanding of anxiety and confidence-building challenges.
• Is happy to support someone to explore hobbies, interests and local activities.
• Is comfortable around cats.
• Is available during weekday afternoons.

This is a rewarding opportunity to help someone develop confidence, increase their independence and make meaningful connections within their local community.

No specialist experience is required. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

Location: Lancaster
Commitment: Flexible weekday afternoons

If you are interested in making a positive difference in someone’s life, we would love to hear from you.

This volunteering role is subject to a DBS check. To qualify you must have been a resident in the UK for the past 3 years.

• Applicants must be willing to go through an induction process with relevant background checks and an enhanced DBS check (This will be done free of charge)
• Once you have applied online one of our Volunteer Officers will be in contact to arrange your DBS

Tasks:

• To accompany the individual on a 1:1 basis in a community setting.
• To regularly support the individual to achieve agreed positive goals to promote their independence – The role is unique to every individual’s needs and circumstances
• To provide regular feedback on progress
• Volunteers must log their volunteering hours monthly and submit expenses where applicable via an online computer system
• To complete minimum level training e.g. Safeguarding and commit to further training relevant to role

Required Qualities:

• Understanding of vulnerability
• It would be an advantage to have an awareness of key issues – alcohol, drug abuse, mental health etc.
• Ability to use basic ICT systems
• Be able to deal with difficult situations in a professional manner
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to use own initiative
• Respect for equality and diversity
• Friendly and approachable
• A good listener and conversationalist
• Patient and encouraging
• Reliable and committed
• Comfortable supporting someone to engage with community groups