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.

Children in care - buddy / friend

This opportunity is ongoing, with no end date.

We are looking for volunteers, who are fun, reliable, and enthusiastic, to be long term friends and role models, to children and young people in care and who have recently left care. Experience of supporting young people would be desirable - we welcome interest from care-experienced volunteers

As a volunteer you will be matched with a young person and will meet them once a month to do fun activities - this could be going to the  cinema, arts and crafts, theme parks, bowling, archery, football, swimming, horse-riding, tennis, museums, art galleries - whatever you and the young person would like to do.  You would have up to £30 to spend on each visit.   Volunteers need to be over 21 and be prepared to commit to the scheme for at least 2 years - this is because young people in care need people who are regular, consistent and reliable.  Please get in touch for further information.

Overview of Project

Independent Visitors are matched with a child or young person in care or who have recently left care. The role of the Independent Visitor is to meet with their young person 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 child or young person to build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

This Role Involves

Building positive, trusting relationships with young people - to be their friend. Most adults in a care experienced young person's life are paid to be there - it's so important that a young person gets to experience an authentic relationship that exists for it's own sake. Young people will choose what they do and don't wish to share about their lives - this relationship gives the young people a sense of power and control normally absent from their relationships with other adults. If you think you could make a positive difference please get in touch, we would love to hear from you.

Location

Sheffield

Skills/Experience Required

Some knowledge and practical experience of involvement with children and young people would be helpful. However, no formal qualifications are needed and full training is given. •Be able to develop positive relationships with children and young people •Be committed to the safety and well-being of children and young people •Be able to offer friendship and advice on a long-term basis •Be able to show patience and a sense of humour •Be reliable and consistent in the support offered

Benefits to Others

Help improve self esteem and confidence Help combat loneliness A positive role model New experiences

Benefits to the Volunteer

Rewarding. Enjoyable. Experience with children and young people

Role Duration

Once a mouth visit for a minimum of two years

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

1 session per month

Training Information

2 days of training, held of two consecutive Saturdays

Expenses Information

Activity expenses and travel expenses are covered

DBS required?

Yes
  • Area of InterestArts, Arts and Crafts, Befriending, Children, Communities, Cooking/Food, Culture, LGBTQ+, Mental health, Outdoors, Social Isolation, Social Justice, Sports
  • Academic Course RelevanceArt, Childcare, Communications, Computer Sciences, Film and TV, Languages, Music, Psychology, Sports Studies
  • Roles suitable for Hallam StaffThis role is suitable for Hallam Staff

Employability skills

  • Assertiveness 0
  • Communication and Listening 0
  • Cultural Awareness 0
  • Initiative 0
  • Innovation and Creativity 0
  • Meeting Skills 0
  • Networking 0
  • Problem Solving 0
  • Reflection 0
  • Time Management 0
  • People Skills 0