Volunteer Scotland

Befriender

  • VO58319
  • Home-based volunteering

Description

If you can spare a couple of hours per fortnight minimum and are able to volunteer for a year or more helping adults who have become isolated through mental health problems we would like to hear from you.

You will take your befriendee out to leisure and community activities and support them to do things they may be unable to do alone. Examples have included walks, squash, a knitting group, trips to a safari park, visiting museums, taking a class in IT skills, attending support groups, golfing, and just going for coffee and a chat.

Initial and on-going training is given and other benefits include out of pocket expenses, regular support and supervision meetings, group events, Saltire or LINK Awards, reference after 6 months.

Organisation aims and objectives

The aims of the group are to relieve the poverty, suffering and distress, advance the education of and promote the welfare of the inhabitants of East Fife area who have or have had mental health problems and are identified as being socially and rurally isolated by the provision of a befriending service to encourage them to participate more fully in the life of the community.

Frequency and commitment details

Minimum 2 hours fortnightly.

Restrictions

We are currently looking for males to match with referrals we have that would need a positive male role model. Some maturity is also needed hence the minimum age.
Experience required: Honest, reliable, a good listener. Experience of mental health issues desirable but NOT essential.
Travel details: We will try to match you with someone close to you. We have people referred from us as close as Tayport and you can make use of having more facilities in Dundee by meeting there if your befriendee is able to.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Expenses of up to £80 per month paid for transport to and from befriending meetings and training, cost of any activities and light refreshments while out with the befriendee. Mileage is paid at £0.45 per mile.
Training details: Induction training is usually held over 2 sessions which each lasts 3 hours. Support is at least monthly and in addition the project coordinator is available by text, telephone and email at other times.
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer

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