Group Befriending Volunteer (Rushcliffe Befriends)

At Your CVS, we support residents experiencing loneliness due to social isolation. Social isolation can arise from various factors such as retirement, bereavement, disability, no local family or friends, poor health or low confidence.

Our Group Befriending Volunteers play a crucial role in facilitating group activities in community locations. The primary aim is to provide participants with opportunities for social interaction, among their peers, and Volunteers. By fostering connections within their community, our volunteers help participants feel less lonely and isolated. 

As a Group Befriending Volunteer you will be:

·       Assisting the minibus driver to collect, and transport participants to the Group Befriending venue, if needed.

·       Providing transport for participants to the Group Befriending venue, if appropriate (if you are unable to so this, it is not a necessity)

·       Engaging with participants at the Group Befriending venue, listening, sharing experiences and hearing about those of the partcipants.

·       Encouraging attendees to participate in any activities offered, and facilitating interactions among group members.  

·       Optionally, leading group activities for attendees, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

·       Handling information shared by participants with confidentiality and sensitivity.

·       Familiarising yourself with and adhering to our policies and procedures, which are designed to ensure safety and well-being for all. 

What skills do I need?

Volunteers should have:

·       A genuine interest in the wellbeing of individuals and an understanding of issues associated with loneliness and isolation.

·       Patience, empathy and a non-judgemental attitude towards diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

·       Ability to provide encouragement and support sensitively and in a non-judgemental manner.

·       Good listening and communication skills and enjoyment in engaging conversation.

·       Ability to use own initiative, and make sound decisions independently.

·       Honesty and integrity

·       Willing attitude

·       Respect for confidentiality and sensitivity to handling personal information.

·       An ability to work as part of a team, but also independently when necessary.

·       Ability to identify appropriate actions and seek advice or report concerns where necessary.

·       Good time keeping and reliability.

·       Willingness to participate in training and to work within the policies and procedures of the project and of Rushcliffe CVS.

Location

This opportunity has no specific location e.g. can be carried out anywhere.