Description

Give some of your time to support someone in Tweeddale to build their confidence to get out and about a bit more.

Borders Buddies is a project funded by National Lottery Improving Lives Fund. It was begun because we were hearing from people who were feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected during Lockdown. Some of them had lost touch with friends or groups, some had lost some physical ability. Others had just lost confidence about rejoining groups or getting back to previous activities.

We are looking for ‘Buddies’ in the Tweeddale area to befriend people to support them to get back to doing what they would like to do. In some cases this may just involve going round for a chat every so often. It could also involve chumming someone to a group or activity, or to a cafe or shops.

You can read a blog here about the experience: https://otbds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Borders-Buddies-Case-Study.pdf

You would be fully supported by our relevant policies and risk assessments, with PVG as necessary, and reasonable expenses would be reimbursed.

Dates and times to be confirmed. You can meet a person first to see if you get on; after that a regular commitment would be good, we understand that volunteers may need to take a break at times or circumstances may change, which is fine too.

Organisation aims and objectives

Outside the Box provides development support to groups and people across Scotland who want to make a difference in their communities. We began in 2004. We are a small, independent charity and aim to work as a social enterprise. We give practical support and enable people to learn the types of skills that are important both for establishing new ventures and for sustaining them. We assist people to contribute on issues that are about how their community or how society works. For example, we support people to share their skills and experiences, work with others to develop community-based solutions to challenges they experience, and have their voices heard in policy. We encourage people to think of themselves and other people as citizens, rather than as recipients of services or as people who are restricted by a particular description or label.

Restrictions

Experience required: Varies depending on individuals. We aim to match people up with buddies they have something in common with, but this does not mean they have to be the same age. We are looking for people who are friendly, flexible and able to listen and communicate on a one-to-one basis.
Travel details: Tweeddale, Scottish Borders
Minimum age: 16

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer