Help Someone Feel Connected Again - Volunteer Befriender

Help Someone Feel Connected Again - Volunteer Befriender

Posted for Waythrough

Posted by Ealing & Hounslow Council for Voluntary Service

Register your interest

You will be redirected to the Ealing & Hounslow Council for Voluntary Service website to express your interest.

Our accommodation services support people experiencing mental health challenges, complex needs, dual diagnosis, and substance misuse issues across a range of housing and supported accommodation settings. We work alongside residents to help them build confidence, develop independence, maintain their tenancies, access education and employment opportunities, and connect with their local communities. 

We value our volunteers and seek to ensure their diverse roles are rewarding and beneficial to all. Waythrough holds the Investors in Volunteers accreditation.

The role:

We are looking for friendly and reliable volunteers to provide companionship and social support to people who may be experiencing, or be at risk of, social isolation. Depending on the service, this may involve spending time with people in the community, at Waythrough, or in other settings, building positive relationships through conversation, shared activities, and active listening.

Tasks may include:

• Helping people feel less isolated by providing companionship and meaningful conversation. 

• Building positive, trusting relationships and taking an interest in the person’s experiences, interests, and wellbeing. 

• Encouraging people to take part in social, leisure, or community activities if they wish to do so. 

• Accompanying people to local activities, groups, or appointments where appropriate. 

• Providing encouragement and emotional support to help people maintain confidence and independence. 

• Sharing information about opportunities, services, or activities that may support wellbeing, where appropriate. 

• Undertaking any other reasonable activities aimed at enhancing a person's quality of life and reducing social isolation.

What skills do I need?

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and especially value lived experience. For this role, we are looking for someone who:

• Has good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Is friendly, empathetic, and able to build positive relationships.

• Understands how life events can impact physical and mental health and wellbeing.

• May have personal experience of significant life changes or transitions (beneficial but not essential).

• Is willing to learn about local services and opportunities that may support people's wellbeing.

• Is able to work independently, use initiative, and know when to seek support.

• Is reliable, professional, and committed to agreed volunteering activities.

• Can maintain confidentiality and appropriate professional boundaries.

• Is willing to attend training, participate in supervision, and follow Waythrough policies and procedures.

• Has a genuine interest in supporting others and contributing to the mission and values of Waythrough.