Befriending Volunteer - Sutton Befrienders (Volunteer Centre Sutton)

To provide friendship and support to a lonely and isolated adult living in Sutton, helping them to feel more connected to their local community and improving their general well-being.

About the Organisation

Sutton Befrienders aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness for older people and adults with support needs living in the London Borough of Sutton. We do this through matching vetted and trained volunteers with people who have little or no social connections and regard themselves as lonely. As well as providing one to one support, we run a wide range of group activities tailored to their needs.

What you will be doing

  • Following a careful matching process, meet with one of our client referrals for a minimum of one hour each week, either within their home or out in the community
  • Provide companionship and chat
  • Where possible, support someone to go out e.g. visiting a garden centre, coffee shop or going for a short walk
  • Following training, comply with Sutton Befrienders policies and procedures
  • Maintain regular contact with your befriending coordinator 

What's in it for you?

  • Above all, the satisfaction of making a difference to an isolated person
  • New skills, experience and friendships
  • The opportunity to meet with other befriending volunteers at social events
  • Training and ongoing support 

What skills will you need?

  • Good communication/listening skills
  • Patience, empathy and compassion
  • Positive, friendly attitude and desire to make a difference
  • Ability to maintain boundaries
  • Ability to keep sensitive personal information confidential
  • Reliability

What's the time commitment and where? 

Minimum 1 hour per week, flexible, to fit in with your current commitments. Duration can vary but you should plan to commit for at least six months.

How can I apply?

Please complete the form below and we will put you in contact with the organisation.   It’s helpful if you can tell us a little about yourself and why you’re interested in this role in the message box below. 

By completing this form you agree for us to pass on your contact details to the organisation.

 

 

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