Key Information
Description
We support a man with learning disabilities in Waltham Forest who would love a volunteer befriender to help him get fit! He has recently gone through a tough time, but is keen to learn how to cycle and go to the gym. As a volunteer befriender, you will provide support and companionship and play a vital role in reducing social isolation for your match, increasing their confidence, improving their fitness and quality of life.
Responsibilities:
- Accompany your match to the gym or on bicycle rides
- Help them to use the gym equipment safely and effectively
- Meet with your befriending match for a period of time and regularity based on mutual agreement
- Providing information and assistance to your match to enable them to make choices about their personal development
- Helping your match rediscover social skill and confidence by building up and maintaining a relationship
Please note that befrienders should never assist with personal care, administering medication, or finances.
Skills, Attitudes and Experience
- You like fitness and have experience of going to the gym or cycling
- You are friendly 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 disorder
- You are patient, empathetic, and open-minded
- You are organised and can work independently
- You take initiative and manage your workload
- You are reliable and punctual
- You are a strong communicator
Benefits
- Meet different kinds of people and make new friends
- Gain professional experience
- Receive support from the Volunteer Team and an assigned 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
- Receive reimbursement for reasonable out of pocket expenses
- Be invited to volunteer events
- Additional training to help you grow in your role
- Covered by Outward’s insurance policy
Location
- Waltham Forest/ North East London
Time Commitment
- We are looking for somebody to start as soon as possible.
- We strongly encourage you to commit to a minimum of four months as a befriender to optimise the experience for your match
- We are looking for somebody who can ideally commit to two hour sessions, three days a week (however we can be flexible!)
Required Training
Before commencing your role, you will be required to complete the following training:
- Volunteer Training Session (approximately 2 hours)
- Online Training Courses: Safeguarding, Care and Confidentiality, Fire Safety, Health and Safety, Equality and Diversity
- Service Inductions
Application Process
- Please complete our online application form.
- You may be asked to attend an informal group or individual interview and info session
- If you are selected for a volunteer role, you will be required to undergo a DBS check, submit two references, and complete the abovementioned mandatory training before you can start your role.
If there is any way that we can make the application process or 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.