Description
Volunteers to provide quality 1:1 time on a regular basis to help children and young people to access leisure and recreational opportunities in the local community and to help improve wellbeing. Activities can include going for a walk or going to a local park, doing some arts and crafts, local museums and going for a chat. This quality time would allow a space for children and young people to talk about how they are feeling as well as a time for them to have time in their local community. Some of the befriender roles offered can also be on a 2:1 basis alongside another volunteer or worker which is a great opportunity for volunteers to build up confidence before lone working. Some befriender roles may take place in a school setting depending on the need of the child and may take place during school hours.
We also have roles available to help support a parent or to help support a family. The role could be going for a chat and a coffee and be a listening ear to a parent/carer. The family role could be helping to build up the confidence of the parent with the child/children in the home/local community.
Our two services that look to support children, young people and parents include the Dundee Child and Family Support Service that supports children and young people with additional support needs and our Families Linked In Project that supports children, young people and parents who have been impacted by substance use in the family setting.
Organisation aims and objectives
Barnardo’s strives to help the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children. Barnardo’s vision today is that the lives of all children and young people should be free from poverty, abuse and discrimination. We want to bring out the best in every child no matter who they are or what they have been through. We deal with various issues such as poverty, neglect, homelessness, bereavement, domestic violence and disability. We look at the bigger picture and strive for a better future for all children and young people. Action for Children supports disadvantaged children, young people and families across various services in the UK. Action for Children intervenes to stop neglect and abuse and also offer services to support children, young people and families with disabilities. AFC want to help support children, young people and families to fulfil their potential and make the most of their lives.
Availability
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The hours each week can vary but usually a commitment of 2 hours per session and usually weekly or fortnightly. The role, depending on the age of the child/young person can take place during the day, after school, early evening and weekends. If the role is supporting a parent/family this might take place during the day, after school, or at weekends We look for a volunteer to commit to a minimum of 6 months.
Restrictions
A minimum age of 18 for volunteers due to the responsibility involved with lone working.
Experience required: Volunteers do not need to have previous experience supporting children and young people with additional support needs or impacted by substance use but if a volunteer does have previous experience it would be welcomed. We are looking for volunteers who are motivated, reliable and want to make a difference to children, young people and families lives.
Minimum age: 18
Support
Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Mileage within Dundee Boundaries and Bus Travel within Dundee Boundaries. Receipts need to be provided when claiming.
Training details: Provided with an induction process that covers: child protection, confidentiality, and professional boundaries (to name some). There are various training opportunities outside the induction including and volunteers are also supported by the volunteer coordinator with regular supervision provided.
Support:
Named Contact For Volunteer,
Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet