Key Information
Description
Purpose of the Role
We support a young man with learning disabilities and mobility issues who would love to be matched with a volunteer who can take him swimming once a week! By taking him to the pool, you will not only be facilitating an enjoyable experience, but you will also help him to get the low-impact exercise that is so important for mitigating the physical symptoms of his condition.
You will be accompanied at all times by a support worker, except whilst you are in the water.
Responsibilities
- Meet your befriending match and their support staff at the service and travel to the pool by bus
- Swim with them in the shallow end of the community swimming pool
- Providing companionship and friendship
Please note that befrienders should never assist with personal care, administering medication, or finances.
Skills, Attitudes and Experience
- You are a competent swimmer
- Experience Communicationing with people who are non-verbal or have speech is an asset.
- You are friendly and have strong interpersonal skills
- You are passionate about making a difference in the lives of older people, 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
- Make a difference to the health and wellbeing of somebody in your community
- Meet different kinds of people and make new friends
- Improve your own health and wellbeing by swimming weekly
- 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
- Hackney (E8)
Time Commitment
- We would like somebody to start in July 2021
- We encourage you to commit to a minimum of four months as a befriender, however an ongoing commitment is ideal
- Available on a weekday between 4pm and 7pm
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 (if working in a service)
Application Process
- Please complete our online application form by clicking apply below.
- 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.