Sighted Guide

About the Role

Vision Norfolk runs numerous sports and leisure activities all over Norfolk. Our aim is to provide enjoyable sports and leisure activities for people living with sight loss.

We work to ensure that every event, whether in the Bradbury Activity Centre (Norwich), Kings Lynn Equipment Centre, Great Yarmouth Equipment Centre or at our other venues, is tailored to ensure that having sight loss is no barrier to joining in.

You will undergo training and learn to safely guide someone with sight loss, navigating environments and building self-confidence – all whilst increasing social interaction with those who may not otherwise wish to leave their home.

Main Responsibilities

Some visually impaired clients require 1:1 support for group outings. As a volunteer, you will be paired accordingly to help guide and support that client throughout the day to get about and remain safe. This role does not involve any personal care. If a client requires help with personal care, they will have a paid support worker in place who will attend the groups with them.

Volunteers are occasionally asked to take part in activities to encourage the clients join in, although this is not a requirement, unless stated by the Sports and Leisure Coordinator at the time of organising the event.

General Responsibilities

• Telephone the Activities Coordinator as soon as possible if unable to fulfil your commitment so that replacement cover can be arranged. 
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times. 
• Adhere to the Vision Norfolk volunteer policies and procedures including Health & Safety.
• Volunteers must wear their photo identity badge during all assignments.
• We ask our volunteers to remain kind and courteous when you are representing Vision Norfolk.

Skills/Experience Needed

We are looking for friendly, chatty volunteers who enjoy talking and listening to our clients talk whilst guiding them around the activity or sport they are attending. Our volunteers will:

· Have great communication and listening skills

· Have good organisational skills

· Enjoy being part of a team

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

· Patience and flexibility

· Able to undertake your role safely and effectively

Benefits of Volunteering

Becoming a volunteer gives you the chance to work with a variety of different people from different walks of life and is an opportunity to make a difference and support your local community. Vision Norfolk also offers:

• Visual Awareness Training
• Regular, ongoing advice and support from Vision Norfolk
• Payment of out of pocket expenses agreed in advance