Volunteer Befriender Needed for a Lancaster Client

Could you offer 1-2 hours a week to help someone feel less isolated?

We’re looking for a friendly, patient volunteer to support a client to rebuild their confidence and become more active in their local community.

Support would start gradually with a weekly chat and companionship at home. Over time, this could progress to accompanying the client to local activities, including visits to a swimming pool and gym helping the volunteer keep active and keep fit.

When?

Weekday daytime visits (Monday to Friday)
1-2 hours per week
Placement expected to last around 6 months
Travel expenses paid

Who would suit this role?

Kind and reliable
A good listener
Comfortable encouraging someone at their own pace
Enjoys swimming and supporting others to access community activities

This is a rewarding opportunity to help someone regain confidence, reduce isolation, and reconnect with their community.

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

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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

Training:

Training will be provided in the form of distance learning or trainer led. Volunteers must have completed the required training before any activity can be undertaken and may be asked to regularly refresh training where required.

Volunteer Befriender Needed for a Lancaster Client