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Children's Befriending

  • VO95259

Description

Befrienders engage in a range of one-to-one, fun activities helping to build the child’s confidence and self-esteem and introducing them to new experiences. Befrienders are matched with a child or young person aged between 5 and 18 who is affected by HIV or Hepatitis. Activities are focused around the child and their befriender’s interested and could include trips to museums, trampoline parks, tourist attractions, outdoor play areas, sporting matches, and galleries. any of the children and young people we support have undergone Adverse Childhood Experiences that continue to negatively impact their wellbeing, development, and behaviour. They often struggle with poor numeracy and literacy, inability to focus, low self-esteem and poor mental health. We want to continue to support them, and their families and we need your help to make this happen! As a Befriender you will need to commit to a minimum of 1 year of volunteering, in order to nurture feelings of trust and safety, and to provide a consistent positive influence.

All sessions take place out of the office, the volunteer would be able to choose an accessible place to meet their needs. Our office is not disability accessible, however we would ensure we have any meetings/interviews/training sessions located somewhere accessible if necessary.

Organisation aims and objectives

To relieve the suffering and distress of adults and children in Edinburgh and the Lothian area who are infected or affected by HIV/ AIDS and Hepatitis C and their families, friends and carers.

Availability

Mon

Tue

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Afternoon
Evening

4-5 hours fortnightly for at least 1 year

Frequency and commitment details

4-5 hours fortnightly for at least 1 year

Restrictions

Experience required: - commitment to supporting young people`s development - enthusiastic about working with children - a good listener and communicator - have a caring nature, empathetic and a non-judgemental approach - positive role model - reliable
Travel details: Travel details depend on where the Befriending session is taking place. Volunteers could use their own vehicle or public transport.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: We reinburse volunteers weekly for public transport, mileage, and any food/drink purchased during session.
Training details: One full days induction training (weekend), followed by five 2 hour evening sessions online. Also first aid training and other training sessions requested by volunteers. Initial one month supervision, followed by 6 monthly supervisions.
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer

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