Befriending Volunteer
Hosted by: Sight Support Derbyshire
Opportunity Description: Our Befriending Service is offered to visually impaired people who are over 50 and live in Derbyshire. Many of these people live alone, are unable to leave the house easily and are often experiencing difficulties with daily living because of their sight loss. They can become socially isolated and feel very lonely. Our Befriending volunteers help to provide a valuable and much needed service to help these people.
As a Befriender you will visit your befriendee on a regular basis at a mutually convenient time. Having a ‘regular someone’ to talk to can really help people to feel connected, increase their confidence and know that there are people out there who care. Home visits can include a cup of tea and chat and to help with small tasks the befriendee may be unable to do due to their visual impairment. It is usually once a week but is a flexible arrangement. You may play a board or card game, chat about hobbies and interests or just sit and share news and family experiences. You could also take your Befriendee out, perhaps to a local café or garden centre, or to enjoy a walk in your local area.
As a Befriender you will visit your befriendee on a regular basis at a mutually convenient time. Having a ‘regular someone’ to talk to can really help people to feel connected, increase their confidence and know that there are people out there who care. Home visits can include a cup of tea and chat and to help with small tasks the befriendee may be unable to do due to their visual impairment. It is usually once a week but is a flexible arrangement. You may play a board or card game, chat about hobbies and interests or just sit and share news and family experiences. You could also take your Befriendee out, perhaps to a local café or garden centre, or to enjoy a walk in your local area.
Type of Activity: Befriending & Buddying
Areas of Interest:
Skills: Practical, Interpersonal
Who we are looking for: No formal qualifications are required. But having good listening skills, being friendly, reliable, trustworthy, having lots of empathy and enthusiasm would make you an excellent befriender!
Being a volunteer connects you to others and the wider community and helps make it a better place. You can meet new people, make new friends, learn new skills and gain experience.
Helping others can be extremely rewarding and can give a sense of purpose and improve self-confidence.
Being a volunteer connects you to others and the wider community and helps make it a better place. You can meet new people, make new friends, learn new skills and gain experience.
Helping others can be extremely rewarding and can give a sense of purpose and improve self-confidence.
Requirements: Will require a Criminal Record Check (DBS)
Suitable for: People with Visual Impairment, Employee Volunteers, Indoors, Event, Family, Long Term Commitment, Groups, Outdoor, From Home, University Students, From Your Office, People Seeking Work, With Friends, Short Term Commitment, Older People
Practical considerations: Full training will be provided
Own vehicle preferable but not essential
Own vehicle preferable but not essential
Recruitment method: Application Form, Informal Discussion, References
Expenses details: Yes
Any Age/Gender restrictions: No restrictions
Induction Arrangments: Training provided