Cafe Buddy, Volunteer Visitor

**Job Advert**:
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**Are you**
**relaxed, calm and patient?**

**Would you like to make a difference to someone with learning disabilities?**

**Could you be a **befriending** visitor?**

**Come and join us and be a visitor**

As part of the Mencap Visiting Service we are looking for a volunteer to visit a gentleman is in his mid 70's who has a learning disability. He lives in a shared house with other residents who have learning disabilities too.

He is someone who likes to take life nice and easy. He would like a visitor who can take him in your car to any nearby cafe's for his favorite sandwich, cheese and onion and a can of pop. Initially as you get to know one another the visits will take place in his home.

He is looking for a male volunteer who is very relaxed, calm and patient. It would be an advantage if you have a car but it isn't essential.

You will be introduced and get to know him with the support of Mencap staff.

**When & where do I need to be available?**
- Visits will be every 2 months and can be during the week or weekends.
- Tuesday and Thursday afternoons between 2.30pm and 4pm are best
- Visits will last around 1 - 1.5 hours or longer depending on what you plan to do.
- Visits will take place at his home initially. Once you get to know each other you may decide to go out and about too.

**As a Mencap Visiting Volunteer you will b**e**:

- Aged 18 or over
- Friendly, patient and reliable

**Benefits**:
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What can I expect from Mencap?
- All relevant safety measure will be in place to ensure that you will be safe.
- 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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- What difference will I make?
- ** 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability.**

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.**
- About this serviceThe Mencap visiting service (MVS) was launched in **1963** as a befriending service to adults with a learning disability after their parents pass away.

We currently support over 300 people of all ages across the England and Wales.

MVS volunteers reduce social isolation, expand networks and build friendships.