Volunteering Opportunities

About the Role

A Child/Young Person Volunteer is someone who makes a commitment to a child or young person facing significant challenges in their lives. This could include experiences of social isolation, disengagement from education, caring responsibilities at home and issues relating to physical and mental wellbeing. As a Volunteer you will spend between 1-3 hours a week (the length of sessions being flexible) with a Child/Young Person doing activities that promote wellbeing, such as bowling, going for a walk or visiting the cinema. By engaging a Child/Young Person in these activities, you will help them develop confidence, resilience and communication skills, equipping them to lead a more fulfilled life. Your volunteer relationship with a Child/Young Person may fluctuate depending on circumstance. You might find yourself acting as a Befriender (offering connection and companionship), a Mentor (supporting goal setting and achievement through sharing advice), and/or a Peer Mentor (considered a mix of both, using your lived experience and shared interests to support the Participant towards setting and achieving their goals). Your sessions are supported and supervised by COVEY staff in line with COVEY policies and procedures.

How to Apply

Submit an Expression of Interest Form HERE You can also contact COVEY’s Volunteering Team at volunteering@coveybefriending.org.uk or on 07502 929076 (Volunteer Engagement Managers Mobile – Rita Neale).

Key Role Requirements

Full driving licence with access to a car for volunteering use Regular availability of 1-3 hours a week (weekdays only) Active Listening skills Empathy for Children/Young People facing significant challenges in their lives Two positive character references PVG Disclosure check

Key Skill Requirements

To offer time to a Child/Young Person on a weekly basis for between 1-3 hours, engaging them in outings and activities. To build a trusting supportive relationship (understanding & non-judgemental) with a Child/Young Person. To establish and maintain appropriate boundaries within the volunteering relationship. To be reliable/consistent and maintain close communication with COVEY staff where your availability changes or something disrupts your planned volunteering. To inform COVEY Staff promptly of any issues/concerns/safeguarding about a Child/Young Person. To be aware of and work within COVEY policy, procedure and best practice. Including respecting confidentiality and supporting with an anti-discriminatory approach. To submit Volunteer Expense claims monthly.