THE BIG HELP OUT Independent visitor- volunteer with a young person in care
Asphaleia
To befriend a child or young person in care and provide a stable long-term relationship. The relationship will enable a child or young person who is ‘looked after’ by the local authority to have contact with someone who is independent of Children Social Care.
Independent Visitor To befriend a child or young person in care and provide a stable long-term relationship. The relationship will enable a child or young person who is ‘looked after’ by the local authority to have contact with someone who is independent of Children Social Care. Hours: Minimum of 2 hours once a month Commitment: Minimum 12 months Expenses: Travel expenses will be reimbursed, and an amount of £20 per visit (maximum) will be available to cover activities, food and any other expenses relating to the visit. Tasks · To visit a child/young person on a regular basis, as agreed by the young person and their foster carers/keyworkers. This should take the form of one visit per month for a minimum of 2 hours. If a visit cannot be undertaken one month, then the IV should try to arrange an extra visit during a subsequent month. · To contribute towards the child/young person’s social, emotional and educational development. The outcomes of this will be supporting the child/young person’s care plan. · To promote their wellbeing by providing advice and support. · To support a young person in expressing their views and wishes. This may require you to attend professional meetings if the child wishes and if you are available. · To befriend and take an interest in the child/young person ensuring, at all times, their personal safety and welfare. · To be aware of and seek to promote/respect any individual needs the young person may have (i.e. relating to their ethnicity, religion, language, disability or other specific areas). · To keep in contact with the IV Coordinator and carers, as necessary. · To respect confidentiality except where the child may be at risk of significant harm. Training and Support · To attend two day induction training for Independent Visitors. · To complete online safeguarding courses. · To attend group support and supervision meetings with the IV Coordinator. Supervision may be conducted over the phone or face-to-face. Reporting · To complete case notes at the end of each month and send to the IV Coordinator. · To report any concerns immediately to the IV coordinator, carers (if appropriate) and follow safeguarding protocols. · To adhere to data protection and information sharing policies when recording and reporting.
Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Youth Work
Listening, Talking To Others
Our volunteers need to have great listening skills, an ability to connect with young people and a good understanding of safeguarding (though we do provide training).
Give back to your community. Gain employability skills with children and young people. Network with other independent visitors and attend social events.
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BN11 1RY
Tunbridge wells Dover Ashford Canterbury Rye Winchelsea Deal
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