Key Information
Description
Purpose of the Role:
As a befriender, you will provide companionship and social interaction to a male individual with
learning disabilities. Through regular visits, you will offer friendly conversation, emotional
support, and a listening ear. Your role will be vital in reducing social isolation, increasing
confidence, enhancing wellbeing, and improving the overall quality of life for your match.
Responsibilities:
• Make regular scheduled visits to a matched person we support
• Try to visit your befriending match for the agreed time and frequency, based on mutual
agreement
• Offer a friendly, supportive, and non-judgmental conversation
• Encourage positive discussions and help build confidence and social connections
• Support your match rediscover social skill and confidence by building up and
maintaining a befriending relationship within the set boundaries
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to safeguarding policies
Skills, Attitudes and Experience:
• You are friendly, empathetic and have strong interpersonal skills
• You are passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with learning
disabilities, and/or people with autism spectrum condition
• You are patient, empathetic, and open-minded
• You are organised and can volunteer independently
• You are reliable and punctual
• You are a strong communicator and engage in active listening
• You understand confidentiality and safeguarding principles (training provided)
Benefits
• Make a real difference in someone’s life by reducing loneliness
• Gain valuable experience in communication and social support
• Improve your own sense of wellbeing through meaningful connections
• Receive support from the Volunteering Team and an assigned Volunteer Supervisor
• Become part of a community of staff and volunteers who are passionate about making a
difference
• Receive references for future opportunities and build your CV
• Be invited to volunteer events
• Additional training to help you grow in your role
Location
• Waltham Forest. E10 and E4
Time Commitment
• Your meeting times and frequency will be determined by your availability and the
availability of your match. Weekly, if possible.
• We encourage you to commit to a minimum of four months as a befriender to optimise
the experience for your match.
Required Training
Before commencing your role, you will be required to complete the following:
• Volunteer Orientation Session (approximately 2 hours)
• Online CareSkills Training:
o Safeguarding of Adults
o Health and Safety
o Fire Safety
o The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training
o Additional training may be required depending on experience
• Induction alongside the person’s regular support worker
2
Screening Requirements
DBS check: This role requires an enhanced DBS check, which will be arranged and paid for by
Outward.
References: Two references will be requested before you begin the role.
How to Apply
If you would like to volunteer with us, we would love to hear from you. You can get in touch by:
• Emailing us at volunteering@outward.org.uk;
• Completing our interest form at https://forms.office.com/e/f1zvTza41t, or scanning
the QR code below using your phone’s camera:
If there is any way that we can make the volunteer role more accessible for you, please
do not hesitate to let us know. We will be happy to make any accommodations we can
for you.
