Conversational English volunteer befriender to refugees bi-weekly
Migrant Help
As volunteer English language befriender, you will provide one to one befriending support to migrants living in Kent focusing on practising English and building confidence to speak it. You will play an important role in helping our clients integrate into local communities by introducing them to local amenities, historical sites, local customs, local ‘slang’ and life in the UK.
What will you be doing? • Provide bi-/weekly one to one befriending support to refugees with focus on practising English • Led by befriendee, you will identify different ways to practise English and use those methods in your meetings. • Where needed, you will introduce your befriendee to the area and provide cultural/social orientation (for example, showing what supermarket is most affordable, where they can get fresh fruits and vegetables) • Visit local amenities and cultural centres with your befriendee • Be empathetic and patient in sessions • Provide encouragement to speak English and create a safe environment to make mistakes and build confidence • Provide ongoing feedback to VC throughout the duration of the project • Report any safeguarding or confidentiality breach concerns to your volunteer supervisor as soon as possible. What will we expect from you? • Complete relevant induction and training provided by Migrant Help • Undergo a criminal conviction check (DBS, PVG or AccessNI). • Commit to volunteering for a minimum of 3 months, at agreed times. • Attend volunteer support sessions as required. • Complete feedback forms when required highlighting any growth opportunities and honestly communicating what is not working well • Adhere to confidentiality and safeguarding procedures • Uphold Migrant Help’s values. • Start volunteering at an agreed time and be punctual • Complete all relevant documentation as required by volunteer coordinator • Be open and understanding of different customs, values, and beliefs
Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Languages & Translation,Teaching & Training,Education
Reading & Writing, Language Skills, Listening, Talking To Others
You will be an excellent candidate for this role if you: • Are fluent in English • Have spare time to befriend someone bi-/weekly for at least 3 months. • Are willing to work with diverse range of people • Have non-judgmental and inclusive attitude • Have friendly and approachable nature • Are reliable and punctual • Are patient and empathetic when listening to others • Are a keen learner • Can use MS Office, Zoom and MS Teams platforms. We are looking forward to hearing from everyone, especially if you: • Have experience of communicating with someone whose first language is not English • Have an excellent knowledge of local area • Have lived experience or understanding of trafficking, asylum, or immigration systems
You will benefit from volunteering with us by: • Gaining experience useful for your future CVs and cover letters • Being able to provide a volunteering reference to your future employer or educator • Being a part of dedicated and inclusive service • Developing new skills • Being more aware of immigration and asylum systems in the UK • Having reasonable expenses reimbursed • Having regular check ins and supervision to support your volunteering experience and growth
You will meet your befriendee around 2 times a month for at least 1 hour. We are looking for someone who can commit to befriending for at least 3 months.
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Volunteers will meet befriendees in pre-agreed locations across Kent
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