Barnet Friends Volunteer

Barnet Friends Volunteer

Barnet Friends has been developed to support Barnet residents suffering from loneliness and isolation. We are seeking to recruit volunteer befrienders who will carry out this role entirely remotely over the telephone. Our service is here to provide companionship for those isolated, the chance to develop a new relationship and remain socially active. We receive referrals from social services, GPs, concerned friends and families and self-referrals from the residents themselves. Having someone to talk to and someone to listen, could really make a difference to some people right now. In some cases, it could be that the befriender is the only person they speak to that day, or even that week. As a befriender you will need to be flexible, reliable, and non-judgmental whilst providing a listening ear and support. We particularly welcome applications from males and black, minority ethnic groups.

About the role:  The time commitment is dependent on the number of clients you are matched with, but we request for a minimum commitment of 1 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months  Once you have been matched with a resident, you will need to call them once a week for 30-60 minutes at a time that you both agree on  You will need to make some brief notes and a record of the calls made which includes flagging the Coordinator of any concerns or issues that come up.  Occasionally you might need to signpost the resident to other services that they need. You will be given guidance and support in doing so

Why volunteer for Barnet Friends? • You will be provided with relevant training around safeguarding, social isolation, and suicide prevention • Develop your communication skills and gain experience of working with vulnerable people • Give something back to your local community and support a worthy cause •

Skills and qualities, we are looking for: • Good communication and listening skills - Being non judgemental • Patience, empathy, and kindness • We don’t ask for any specific qualifications, although having experience of either working with vulnerable people, or in a mental health setting are desirable

-Receive monthly group supervision with a Therapist -Gain a workplace reference for volunteers who have completed 6 months of volunteering with us. -Training around safeguarding, maintaining boundaries, and suicide prevention

This role gives you the opportunity to make the world of difference to a vulnerable person living, working or studying in Barnet. This volunteering opportunity gives you the scope to do something rewarding through providing emotional support to people who need it most; and the feel good factor of seeing people become more resilient in time. Your calls can make all the difference to their emotional wellbeing through empowering them to try new wellbeing activities, and helping them to overcome their challenges

Not sure which role suits you or need a little friendly help? Please contact Angie at [contact hidden] for London or Rebecca at [contact hidden] for Manchester.