voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteering
voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteering
Befriender for young person Volunteer Opportunity No. VO90057 - Created/last updated: 05/08/2022 | ![]() Opportunity |
About this opportunity: | This opportunity allows the befriender to make a positive difference for a young person, while also growing their own experience and enhancing their life skills. Befrienders offer one to one support to a young person aged 8 to 18, who has Cystic Fibrosis. Young people living with this condition have a demanding daily treatment regime at home and sometimes experience limitations that can affect their confidence and ability to cope with the challenges of everyday living. They may also be socially isolated because of their condition. A befriender will meet with the young person every 1 to 2 weeks, to build a trusting one to one relationship, taking them out to allow a private space to chat. The volunteer should therefore have access to a car. A commitment of at least a year is sought - this will allow the young person time, space to explore their feelings, discuss their fears, develop life skills and grow in the areas where they may be struggling. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Takes place: |
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Minimum age: | 19 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Maximum age: | 100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Training provided: | Induction is one day covering the condition, the befriending process and procedures, interpersonal skills, Trust procedures. One team day per year for ongoing training. Support from befriending co-ordinator member of Trust's staff. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Out of pocket expenses paid? | Yes - All transport costs, mileage (30p/mile), materials for activities. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Experience required: | Good listening skills, patience, reliability and an adaptable attitude. Must have access to a smoke free car | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restrictions on who can volunteer | must have held full driving license for 2 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Application process: | Application Form; Induction/Training; Interview; PVG membership required; References | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Taster available? | No, not for this opportunity. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Travel Details | Volunteers will be matched with a young person who lives in their local area. The volunteer will take the young person in their car to an activity or environment away from home to give the young person space to talk. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Saltire Award | This opportunity is compatible with the Saltire Awards for volunteers aged 12-25. |