Organisation Name:
Wilberforce Trust
Organisation's Cause(s):
Carers
Children / Young People / Families
Disability Services
Homelessness & Housing
Local Community
Older Adults
Location of voluntary activity:
In the community or over the phone.
When are volunteers needed: Volunteers are asked to commit to an hour a week/fortnight for at least 6 months. The times of the sessions are to be arranged according the availability of both the volunteer and the service user.
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Befriending / Buddying
Role description:
There are sometimes when limitations posed by disability restrict the number of social opportunities that our service users have access to. As a befriender, you will be providing a much-needed social contact through regularly meeting a person for an hour a week or a fortnight at their home or supporting them with a weekly telephone call.
We aim to match volunteers and customers according to common interests so there may be a waiting time before we call you in after your complete your induction.
This role requires an empathetic ear, a good degree of flexibility and the understanding that, as with any other friendship, there will be times when life takes over and changes or cancelations may be required a short notice. We will provide training and be there to support you during this journey.
We aim to provide this service in person, but are also aware that befriending volunteers can have limitations of their own, if you would like to volunteer but have personal restrictions that do not allow you to travel, please get in touch as we are currently considering offering a befriending service over the phone.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
● An open and friendly nature
● Adaptable and patient
● Good communication skills
● Confident approaching and talking to members of the public
● A sense of humour
Will there be a DBS check? Yes
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Ongoing Volunteering
Vision impaired
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
Befriending can have a great impact on the service user as well as the befriending volunteer. It gradually enhances lives by providing a regular social contact that can, eventually, expand people’s horizons, increase their self-esteem and confidence as well as providing an opportunity to share interests and learn from each other.
How to get involved:
Please complete an application form on the following link
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 01-12-2025