Volunteer Independent Visitor 4-6 hours per month - Northamptonshire

Cambridgeshire's Independent Visitor Service are looking for an adult volunteer based in Northamptonshire to become an Independent Visitor and establish a good quality, long-term relationship with a young person in care.

Children and young people in care can lack a consistent relationship with an adult and miss out on the experiences and opportunities this can offer them. As an Independent Visitor you will meet with them about once a month to take them out, have fun and be a good role model. A set amount for activities and mileage is reimbursed.

The visits can take place at the young person’s home or out in the community, based on the needs of the young person, and can involve anything from a walk around the park, bowling, going to a restaurant or an outing to the cinema. Any activity undertaken should be child led. Volunteers are supported through regular supervision and on-going training. No experience is necessary, just the willingness to pledge a few hours a month at the weekend or an evening to one young person.

The service is looking for anyone over 21 who feels they have the time and commitment available to become an Independent Visitor.

You should be able to commit for two years, thereby providing the young person with long-term consistency, and be able to spare at least 2-6 hours per month.

Before you can become an Independent Visitor Cambridgeshire County Council undertake interviews, references, and checks, including an enhanced DBS (criminal records) check. You will need to complete a training programme, involving safeguarding training and will be provided with on-going support and supervision.

If you would like to know more information please contact IV.service@cambridgeshire.gov.uk.

Skills

No formal qualifications are required. We ask that you can commit to at least 2 years to provide a consistent, non judgemental, reliable, fun attitude to a young person who hasn't had the greatest start in life.

Skills:  Provide at least two year commitment  Sense of humour  Patience  Understanding  Non-Judgemental  Reliable