Face to Face Befriending Volunteer Role

Face to Face Befriending Volunteer Role

Organisation role · 0–1 hrs/Week
Flexible location
Care workBefriendingSupport workSocial contact
Older peopleCommunity & familyWellbeing
1 No Poverty3 Good health and well-being7 Affordable and clean energy

Contact person

Laura Hawkie-ChapmanAsk Laura a question
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Age UK Norfolk
#101643
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 support
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About Age UK Norfolk

Every year, thousands of older people and their carers turn to Age UK Norfolk for support. Whether it’s advice in a time of need, help filling out complicated forms or a friendly chat when they’re lonely, we are here to help.

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]