Mencap Volunteer Visitor

**Job Advert**:
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You will be visiting a gentleman with a learning disability every other month, 6 times a year. He is in his 70’s and lives in a care home in Northwood.

This gentleman loves anything to do with stationary; notepads, pens, paper. He likes looking through magazines, drawing in his sketch books or listening to his favourite music. His all-time favourite song is "Maria" from West Side Story which you could play to him from your phone. Or you could try to have a little game of connect4.
- He is a man of few words, but has the odd word and will communicate with you through body language. You will need a little bit of patience to get to know him. Visits will start slowly and take place in the home, you will get to know him with the support of staff.He will enjoy spending time with a friendly volunteer like you. By visiting every other month, you will make a huge difference and provide support and companionship.

**When & where do I need to be available?**

The times required can be flexible to your availability, but please avoid meal times. Visits are **every 2 months.**

Visits will last around 1-1.5 hours.

You will make 6 visits per year, and we ask for a minimum commitment of 1 year.

**As a Mencap Visiting Volunteer you will be**:

- 18 or over
- Friendly and approachable
- Reliable and patient
- Able to use initiative
- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
- Have good communication and listening skills- We look forward to hearing from you**Benefits**:
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**As a Mencap volunteer you will receive**:

- Personalised training and induction
- To feel fully supported in your role
- Agreed out-of-pocket expenses to be reimbursed (e.g. travel, a meal out with the person you visit)
- Meet new people
- Learn new skills
- Feel appreciated and valued
- You will be making a difference

**About Mencap**:
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Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

**Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, **whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.