Volunteer Befriender (Independent Visitor)

Have you ever thought of volunteering?

Do you like to have fun?

Do you want to make a difference to a young person's life?

What is an Independent Visitor?

An Independent Visitor is a volunteer who befriends and visits a young person living in care of the local authority in a range of different settings. Young people are aged up to 21 years.

Who can be an Independent Visitor?

Independent Visitors need to be at least 18 years old, be able to relate well with young people and have a genuine interest in their wellbeing. We are unable to accept applications from individuals employed within Leeds Children's Social Care. As part of the recruitment process we spend time getting to know you on a personal level and will ask for your consent to undertake various background checks in line with safer recruitment practices.

What time and commitment do I need to give?

We ask that you can give a young person a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years and be their friend, provide consistency and create a positive friendship between you and the young person. This can involve anything fun from football in the park, seeing the latest film, ice skating or new activities that the young person wants to try.

What training or support will I receive?

All volunteers attend a two day training course covering your role, responsibilities, maintaining boundaries, safeguarding and child protection. Access to additional training through Leeds City Council is available as required. As a volunteer you are also encouraged to attend any information sessions the scheme provides which are appropriate to your young person's needs.

Support

Ongoing support from the scheme's co-ordinators.

Expenses

Out of pocket expenses. This include for any activities done with your young person and to cover your travel costs or mileage.

Social gatherings

Optional social gatherings along with other independent visitors and young people.

To find out more about volunteering with the scheme email independent.visitor1@leeds.gov.uk or visit Independent visitor scheme (leeds.gov.uk)

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check against the Children's or Adults' barred list as applicable will be carried out on preferred candidates. Read our recruitment of ex-offenders policy.

We welcome applications from everyone and actively seek a diverse range of applicants from all backgrounds and cultures. We particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to, women, carers, veterans as well as LGBT+, ethnically diverse, disabled and care experienced people.