Volunteer Befriender

**Job Summary**

Would you like to work with children and young people? Volunteer as a Befriender for 5-25 year-olds.

BeFriends Dundee offers one-to-one befriending and group activities to support children and young people from throughout Dundee who are experiencing difficulties in their lives and are often socially isolated and vulnerable. Helping to address their individual needs, our trained and disclosure checked adult volunteers provide friendship and support as they meet once a week or fortnight with their matched young person to take part in activities together. Having fun and the opportunity to socialise as they enjoy a range of new experiences, the young person builds confidence, self-esteem, and life skills, whilst being able to chat and discuss any problems or issues in a safe environment.

**Job Type / Category**

Volunteer befrienders meet with their befriendee at least once every week or two weeks for a minimum of two hours. All expenses and travel costs incurred during the activities are reimbursed.

**Required education, skills and qualifications**

No previous qualifications or experience of working with children and young people is required, but it is important to have empathy, and the ability to engage with a non-judgmental approach to understanding the issues affecting young lives. Volunteers receive full initial training, induction and ongoing training and support. They are vetted and undertake a disclosure check within the PVG scheme through the charity. Volunteers are asked to commit at least eight months to the role. Ideally they should live within the Dundee area or the close vicinity for ease of travelling as all our young people are located within the City of Dundee boundaries.

**Benefits**

All new volunteers receive training on child protection, boundaries, roles and responsibilities, lone working, and community skills. This post provides the opportunity for volunteers to gain confidence, make a difference to someone that is in need, meet new people and share experiences, whilst enhancing competences and taking on challenges.

**Job Type**: Volunteer

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Company events

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekend availability

COVID-19 considerations:
BeFriends provides volunteers with guidance including updates on Government advice, the need to adhere to any restrictions, to undertake regular hand sanitation and take careful assessment on the need for precautions such as face masks.

Work Location: One location