Unpaid Volunteer Opportunity

The scheme is funded until 31 March 2011

Responsible to: Befriending Coordinator

Location: Bradford and Leeds

Hours: Approximately 2-3 hours a week or a fortnight plus optional attendance at a group activity every 6 weeks.

Objectives: As a Befriender you will be required to build a relationship with a disabled young person and support them in taking part in a leisure activity of their choice.

The aim of the project is to support the development of the self-esteem, independence and social skills of the young people, whilst also providing a short break service to the family.

Tasks

• To develop relationships with the young person and their family
• Support the young person on taking part in a leisure activity and to ensure they have a positive experience and reach their full potential
• Ensure the safety of the young person at all times during sessions
• Support the physical and emotional needs of the young person during the session. This may entail assisting with reading and writing, pushing a wheelchair, lifting and handling on and off the toilet, or changing nappies
• Attend training sessions
• Complete activity reports for supervisor
• Attend 6 weekly supervision meetings

Skills

• Listening, empathy, understanding, a sense of humour, tact, diplomacy and patience
• Communication skills
• Reliability and good time keeping
• Good organizational skills

Training and support

• Full training and induction programme which volunteers attend prior to working with young person
• Continual support and advice from Befriending Coordinators, regular supervisions, contact numbers, regular opportunities to talk to other Befrienders as well as regular training opportunities
  

Other information

• Volunteers receive reimbursement for all out of pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be required to undertake and enhanced CRB (which we will pay for) and provide two references
• Volunteers will be managed in line with our Volunteer Policy