Befriending volunteer coordinator volunteer roles

The role in a nutshell:

Age UK Cheshire's Sharing Time Reconnect Befriending service strives to reduce loneliness and isolation by matching our volunteers with older people via a meaningful befriending relationship.

Please note: You must be located within Cheshire to apply for this role

What will you be doing?

You will be working with your befreindee and the Service Coordinator to understand their goals and how you can help them to achieve them. This could involved visiting the befreindee at their home for a chat, a walk, or a coffee in town. Depending on their goals, this could also include supporting and facilitating access to local groups and physical activities e.g. craft groups, coffee mornings, lunch clubs or meeting up for a coffee with other befriendees to form their own friendship group. 

How would you be supported in this role?

Our volunteers receive an initial induction into the work and policies of our charity and then specific training on befriending, health and safety and safeguarding. You will be part of a caring and experienced team and have the support of a dedicated service coordinator. 

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Loneliness among older people is a growing crisis. By volunteering with Age UK Cheshire’s Sharing Time Reconnect project, you will offer more than a regular visit – you will offer a lifeline to older people in your community. 

Befriending visits usually last around between 1 and 2 hours in business hours. They are typically weekly but can be flexible depending on the individual you are supporting and their circumstances. We also appreciate that volunteers may have other commitments, such as caring responsibilities so we will work with you and the individual to agree a pattern which works for everyone.  ​

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

• Patience and a warm and friendly attitude. 
• Active listening skills with the ability to motivate others.
• A wish to support older people in a person- centred manner, taking account of preferences and abilities.
• Awareness of acting in a way that respects equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Willingness to follow guidance to keep yourself and others safe.

Additional information:

• This role is subject to police checking by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
• You will need to be willing and able to travel to your befriendee and travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• We are looking for volunteer befrienders throughout Cheshire.

We are looking for volunteers to spend some time with our clients  in and around Central London or  to speak to them over the phone.  Our current needs are in Tulse Hill, Stockwell, Annerly, Barnes, Luton and Stepney Green.  If your time is more restricted, you could potentially offer a weekly phone call rather than a visit. Locations change as new referrals come in, so if you are interested in befriending and want to make positive difference to  an older persons emotional well being, please contact us, we may have a client in your area!  

 Meetings are regular, usually weekly or fortnightly, for at least six months although most of our volunteers stay involved for  longer, only because they enjoy what they do!  Phone calls can me made from any quiet space at your home or workplace. 

Befriending is a simple way to make a positive difference to someone who feels lonely or is socially isolated.  Your gift of time and companionship will give them, and you, something to look forward to. As one of our volunteers once said,“this is an easy, very meaningful way to help someone and is immensely rewarding and fun!”  

Meetings are held in our client's home or in the community, chatting in coffee shops or talking while you walk - this really depends on what our client wants to do.  Our clients are Scots aged 60 and over, who simply want to do the activities that most of us take for granted.

We provide training before you start, ongoing support once you are matched, out of pocket expenses, references, social events and newsletters. 

This could be the ideal opportunity gain practical experience of working with adults in a health and social care setting, or for anyonewhoenjoys meeting new people and making their lives a little brighter. You will both look forward to your meetings. 

Please note, this is an unpaid voluntary role and applicants must live in or around the London area for meetings, or in the UK for phone calls. 

Please contact us for more information, and a very warm welcome!

Skills & characteristics required for befriending are:

• English speaking, clear communication for coversation
• Good listening skills
• Friendly, warm and non-judgemental 
• Honest, reliable and committed
• Empathy 
• Understanding of the need to maintain confidentiality (covered in training) 

An enhanced DBS check will be processed  for successful applicants and two references are required. 

Chatterbox Befrienders offer one-to-one telephone support and will call a client once a week offering companionship and a listening ear for an individual who might otherwise go unheard. Chatterbox volunteers befriend a variety of people including carers, socially isolated individuals who are struggling with loneliness, people with ill health and those that 
have been bereaved. 

THIS ROLE COULD BE FOR YOU IF:

- Would like to make a real difference in someone’s life

- Want to challenge loneliness and can commit to a weekly phone call

- Are a good listener

- Are empathetic, patient and of a caring nature

- Have good verbal and inter-personal communication skills

- Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can uphold this in practice

- Are committed to inclusion and treating people with dignity and respect

REQUIREMENTS OF A BEFRIENDER INCLUDE:

- Calling your client once a week for a chat of up to 45 minutes; this is a 26 week initial commitment, at the end of which each client’s needs are reviewed

- Completing an online call log record promptly after each phone call

- Ensuring immediate contact with the Chatterbox Coordinators if you feel that the client might be a risk to themselves or others

- Liaising with the Chatterbox Coordinator on a regular basis regarding the service, as well as discussing personal learning and development needs

- Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the range of policies and procedures that impact on befriending vulnerable adults

BENEFITS OF THE ROLE MAY INCLUDE:

- Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life

- Joining the Omega Team who are taking action against loneliness and isolation

- An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills

- An opportunity to engage with your community

SUPPORT AND TRAINING PROVIDED:

- Omega Chatterbox induction program

- Safeguarding training

- Ongoing support from Chatterbox Coordinators for all questions, concerns, and support

- Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed and a mobile phone can be provided if appropriate

- Monthly Befriender group support meetings via the Zoom app

LOCATION OF THE ROLE:

- Home-based

WHEN ARE YOU NEEDED:

- Provided on enquiry

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role. If you have a criminal record this does not automatically prevent you from being considered as an Omega Chatterbox Befriender. We will take into account the nature of the offence, when it happened and whether it is relevant to the voluntary role. If you are shortlisted, this will be discussed with you during the recruitment process.

Chatterbox Befrienders offer one-to-one telephone support and will call a client once a week offering companionship and a listening ear for an individual who might otherwise go unheard. Chatterbox volunteers befriend a variety of people including carers, socially isolated individuals who are struggling with loneliness, people with ill health and those that 
have been bereaved. 

THIS ROLE COULD BE FOR YOU IF:

- Would like to make a real difference in someone’s life

- Want to challenge loneliness and can commit to a weekly phone call

- Are a good listener

- Are empathetic, patient and of a caring nature

- Have good verbal and inter-personal communication skills

- Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can uphold this in practice

- Are committed to inclusion and treating people with dignity and respect

REQUIREMENTS OF A BEFRIENDER INCLUDE:

- Calling your client once a week for a chat of up to 45 minutes; this is a 26 week initial commitment, at the end of which each client’s needs are reviewed

- Completing an online call log record promptly after each phone call

- Ensuring immediate contact with the Chatterbox Coordinators if you feel that the client might be a risk to themselves or others

- Liaising with the Chatterbox Coordinator on a regular basis regarding the service, as well as discussing personal learning and development needs

- Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the range of policies and procedures that impact on befriending vulnerable adults

BENEFITS OF THE ROLE MAY INCLUDE:

- Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life

- Joining the Omega Team who are taking action against loneliness and isolation

- An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills

- An opportunity to engage with your community

SUPPORT AND TRAINING PROVIDED:

- Omega Chatterbox induction program

- Safeguarding training

- Ongoing support from Chatterbox Coordinators for all questions, concerns, and support

- Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed and a mobile phone can be provided if appropriate

- Monthly Befriender group support meetings via the Zoom app

LOCATION OF THE ROLE:

- Home-based

WHEN ARE YOU NEEDED:

- Provided on enquiry

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role. If you have a criminal record this does not automatically prevent you from being considered as an Omega Chatterbox Befriender. We will take into account the nature of the offence, when it happened and whether it is relevant to the voluntary role. If you are shortlisted, this will be discussed with you during the recruitment process.

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Swindon to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Coleford to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Hereford and surrounding areas to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:  'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Launceston to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Whitchurch to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!

Description

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Shaftesbury to befriend and mentor a young person in care.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life! 

Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’ 

Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person. 

Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation.  Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals." 

We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.

A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries. 

If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.

Thank you for considering this opportunity! 

Expectations

• Two-year commitment
• Minimum age of 18
• Based in the UK
• DBS check
• Digital risk assessment compliance
• Completion of training relevant to the role
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports
• Ability to complete online tasks and reports

Benefits

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!