Independent Visitors - Sheffield City Council

Independent Visitors - Sheffield City Council logo

A long-term befriending scheme for Children & Young people in care & those who have recently left care.

Male befriender for unaccompanied asylum seeking young people

This opportunity is ongoing, with no end date.

We are looking for 4 male volunteers, who are fun, reliable, and enthusiastic, to be long term friends and role models for young male unaccompanied asylum seekers aged between 16-21.

Overview of Project

The role of the Independent Visitor is to meet with a young person in care or who has recently left care once a month, for a minimum of two years, to do a fun activity together. Activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike or a walk in the park etc. Independent Visitors are positive adult role models who through their consistent friendship help their young person to build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

This Role Involves

The boys /young men are all currently living in the care of Sheffield Local Authority with Foster Carers and would particularly like their Independent Visitor to help them to settle into living in the UK and Sheffield by spending time with them showing them places and activities around Sheffield, learning about British and Yorkshire culture and traditions, having fun and improving their English along the way. Their interests are football, music, food, bike riding and much much more. Become an Independent Visitor for an unaccompanied asylum seeker young person and make a positive difference to their lives. Young person aged 18 “I never thought I would be so comfortable with my Independent Visitor. It’s amazing. We talk and joke around with each other. He is a best friend to talk to and do things with. He was one of the first English people to be good to me and so now I trust them more because of him. I can be more open with English people now, trust them and talk to them. My time with my IV couldn’t be any better.” Danny aged 30, Independent Visitor – “Being an Independent Visitor is great fun, I love planning new activities and trip for my young person. It makes me feel like a kid again. When your young person opens up to you, you feel like you are really making a difference.”

Location

Sheffield

Skills/Experience Required

Experience and the recruitment process No experience? Don’t worry, full training is given over two Saturdays. We just need volunteers who can commit and have a passion for making a real difference. As part of the recruitment process, applicants will be expected to complete an application form, enhanced DBS check, provide two references and undergo a short interview. Activity and travel expenses are covered and support is provided throughout by your assigned Independent Visitor Co-ordinator.

Benefits to Others

Help to settle into life here in Sheffield Help to build confidence and self esteem Help to combat loneliness Enjoyment

Benefits to the Volunteer

Travel and activity expenses. Relevant training for the role. Enjoyment. Experience with children and young people. The opportunity to make a real difference.

Role Duration

1 visit, once a month. 2 years commitment

Time Commitment (hours Per week/month/year, etc)

1 session per month

Training Information

Full training is provided initially On going training is also available

Expenses Information

Activity and travel expenses are provided

DBS required?

Yes
  • Area of InterestBefriending, Children, Communities, Human Rights, Mental health, Social Isolation
  • Academic Course RelevanceChildcare, Education, English, Health and Social Care, Languages
  • Roles suitable for Hallam StaffThis role is suitable for Hallam Staff

Employability skills

  • Communication and Listening 0
  • Cultural Awareness 0
  • Initiative 0
  • Innovation and Creativity 0
  • Meeting Skills 0
  • Networking 0
  • Organisation 0
  • Problem Solving 0
  • Reflection 0
  • Time Management 0
  • People Skills 0
  • Teaching/Tutoring 0