About the Organisation
Volunteer Centre Sutton’s new Afghan Buddying Programme is part of their Afghan Support project, which welcomes and supports the integration of Afghan families, children and adults who have recently arrived in Sutton.
What you will be doing
We’ll carefully match you with either an individual or a family, and you’ll meet with them weekly for 12 weeks to help them settle into the local area. Your support could include sharing your knowledge of Sutton, offering guidance on local services, or simply answering the questions they may have as newly arrived residents.
To get started, your volunteer coordinator will introduce you to your Afghan match in an initial session. After that, you’ll meet once a week for 12 weeks, at a time and place that works best for you both. Meetings can take place in community settings such as parks, cafés, libraries, or other local spaces—depending on what feels right for you and your Afghan match.
What's in it for you?
We will provide induction training which will include cultural awareness and safeguarding, as well as ideas and tips of where to hold your Buddy sessions.
Throughout the 12 weeks, your volunteer coordinator will be there to support you, including a mid-programme check-in and a final review at the end of the placement.
You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to create a welcoming, inclusive community.
You will gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, traditions and perspectives.
As a volunteer we will reimburse you for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering.
What skills will you need?
As an Afghan Buddy you will need:
- Good communication skills and a willingness to communicate across potential language barriers.
- The ability to encourage conversations, and to be sensitive whilst maintaining confidentiality.
- An enthusiasm for sharing your knowledge of the local Sutton area, and culture and customs.
- Compassion and empathy, and an ability to understand the issues faced by newly arrived Afghan families and individuals.
We would be keen to hear from volunteers who are Farsi, Dari or Pastho speakers.
Age range: 18+
Application process: once you have expressed interest via the form below, we will send you a full application form, including a request for two references. You will then be contacted by our volunteer coordinator to arrange an interview.
What's the time commitment and where?
Time Commitment:
1-2 hours once a week as agreed between both parties for 12 weeks
Location:
Volunteer Centre Sutton, Market House, 216-220 High St, Sutton SM1 1NU for Introductory, Training and Check-in Sessions
Around Sutton for individual 1:1 Buddy sessions
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.