Volunteer visitor

Who can volunteer for the project?

We welcome volunteers from a variety of backgrounds who can use their experiences to help young people.  Volunteers need to be over 18 years of age and be able to commit 4-6 hours per month to the project for at least 12 months.

What training and support will I receive?

We have a recruitment process and a training course which volunteers must complete to enable them to become a visitor for the project. The course is divided into 2 units that are accredited by the Open College Network to 3 credits each.

Areas covered include:

• role of an independent visitor
   
• confidentiality and boundaries
   
• listening and communication skills
   
• the rights and responsibilities of the independent visitor
   
• the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000

Ongoing support from project and through care staff is available as well as regular volunteer support group meetings and supervision sessions with the project manager.

What activities would I have to do with the young person?

This largely depends on the young person's individual needs. Examples include:

• listening to them
   
• offering support and guidance
   
• helping them with budgeting
   
• supporting them with education or employment opportunities
   
• accompanying them to appointments
   
• introducing them to a new leisure activity

Will I get paid expenses?

Yes. All out of pocket expenses are reimbursed monthly.

How do I find out more?

Please see the finding a volunteer page or contact us for further information.