We are looking to recruit a team of individuals into the Volunteer Buddy Service and into a role that is a real opportunity to make a difference. This could be through helping to support older people experiencing social isolation, individuals living with a learning disability, or individuals living with mental health needs.
Being a ‘Volunteer Buddy’ could entail:
- Introducing a local individual to community group activities or social groups.
- Accompany them to their activity or group and be present during the duration of their visit.
- Being a Volunteer Buddy Travel Trainer to train for those who need support in learning the skills and to build confidence to independently make journeys to groups or activities they wish to attend. This is an optional/separate role but can be included in general Volunteer Buddying if the volunteer wishes too.
- Supporting, listening, encouraging, and helping individuals recognise their potential.
- You will have the possibility to help someone feel more connected to their community, improve mental and physical wellbeing, and recognise their potential. All of which will aid to build a thriving local community that you live in.
An overview of the service:
SERVICE AIMS:
- Offer support to enable adults over the age of 18 who are experiencing social isolation, individuals living with a learning disability, or individuals living with a mental health need who wish to engage with their local communities, access local groups, services, or amenities.
- As a short-term support service this is delivered through a tailored limited number of sessions, the objective being to empower the individual to overcome potential barriers and then to independently continue to access their chosen activity once their time with The Volunteer Buddy Service has ended.
SUPPORT OFFERED:
- The Volunteer Buddy Service offers Travel Training for those who need support in learning the skills and to build confidence to independently make journeys to groups or activities they wish to attend.
- The Volunteer Buddy helps in a befriending role to overcome any initial barriers such as lack of confidence, knowledge or simply being with the individual somewhere unfamiliar.
AREAS COVERED:
- Cannock Chase District, South Staffordshire District and Lichfield District. We are also expanding our areas to cover East Staffordshire and Newcastle-Under-Lyme in the autumn.
To find out more, have a look at the role descriptions here:
Volunteer Buddy East Staffordshire role
Volunteer Buddy Travel Trainer Newcastle Under Lyme role
or contact Kim Hobbs on kim.hobbs@supportstaffordshire.org.uk
