Face to Face Befriending Volunteer Role



Contact person
Scan me or visit www.getinvolvednorfolk.org.uk/o/Age-UK-Norfolk/opportunities/Face-to-Face-Befriending-Volunteer-Role/101643 to join
Summary
To visit a local older person (persons) for one hour each week for up to 6 months in their home or care facility offering companionship.Detailed description
Age UK Norfolk’s ‘Gift of Friendship’ service takes a proactive, goal-oriented approach to helping individuals aged 50+ reduce loneliness and social isolation across Norfolk. Our Face-to-Face Befriending service offers meaningful connections through friendly visits, whether at a member’s home or care home. Befrienders play a vital role in building relationships with older individuals and supporting them in achieving their personal goals. This service makes a significant and lasting impact on well-being, fostering companionship and support.
Main Purpose
· To visit a local older person (persons) for one hour each week for up to 6 months in their home or care facility offering companionship. You may also gradually support them to reconnect with their local community for example for a walk, joining a local group, or to visit a local café together.
Tasks
· To make weekly visits
· To keep accurate records of all visits made and submit reports weekly.
· To adhere to the policies and practices of Age UK Norfolk
· To keep your Coordinator informed of any changes or requests
Skills
· The ability to relate to and empathise with older people
· Good communication and I.T. skills
· An ability to talk to people on a wide range of subjects
· Ability to give and to accept support as part of a team
· Reliability and trustworthiness
· Ability to work on own initiative
· A positive and cheerful outlook
Availability
Flexible
Location
Community Based (local/countywide)
Responsible to and supported by
Befriending team
Training
Training and ongoing support is provided, and short training courses are required to be completed before starting the role. Volunteers must have access to an email address, as email is the primary method of communication. A satisfactory Enhanced DBS (criminal records) check is required.
Expenses
Expenses, including mileage and phone call costs, can be reimbursed.
What we will provide to volunteers
💸 Reimbursement of costs🤝 Extra supportAbout Age UK Norfolk
But we couldn’t do it alone. Our dedicated team of volunteers are the backbone of our organisation and without their help; we simply would not be able to deliver all the services that we do.
No experience is necessary, and whatever your talents and interests, there is likely to be a voluntary opportunity where you can share your knowledge, make new friends and make a real difference to the lives of older people in Norfolk.
For more information about our volunteer roles and to gain access to our application form please visit our website or contact our Volunteer Coordinator on 01603 785210 or email at [email protected]