Befriending Volunteer

Befriending Volunteer

Volunteer Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Spend quality time with individuals, providing companionship and support through visits or phone calls.
  • Company: Join Wimbledon Guild, a century-old charity dedicated to supporting the community.
  • Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, meaningful connections, and the chance to make a real difference.
  • Why this job: Be part of a legacy that combats loneliness and enriches lives in your community.
  • Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a caring attitude and willingness to connect.
  • Other info: Commit for as little as an hour a week and help change lives!

If you can spare an hour a week, fortnight, or month, become a volunteer befriender and make a huge difference to someone's life. Support for six months, one year, or on an ongoing basis.

Befriending Volunteers provide conversation to individuals who live alone and may otherwise go days without seeing another person. Our volunteers stay in touch with regular visits and sometimes phone calls, making sure their clients feel connected and engaged.

Volunteer befrienders typically spend an hour every week, fortnight or month visiting their client at their home for a cuppa and a catch up, or to help with small jobs like shopping or gardening. They build a connection with those they support through chatting, going for a walk, playing board games, working on puzzles, or watching YouTube videos together. Other volunteers meet clients out in the community, and others offer support over the phone.

Befriending was one of the first services Wimbledon Guild offered when we began over 100 years ago and is still one of our most popular ways people can get support. We hear from befrienders and clients alike what a huge difference they make to each other's lives.

Befriending Volunteer employer: Wimbledon Guild

Wimbledon Guild is an exceptional employer that values the impact of community service, offering volunteers a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals who may feel isolated. With a supportive work culture that fosters connection and engagement, volunteers can enjoy flexible commitments while gaining invaluable experience and personal growth opportunities. Join us in our mission to ensure that no one in Merton faces life's challenges alone, and be part of a legacy that has been enriching lives for over a century.
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Contact Detail:

Wimbledon Guild Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Befriending Volunteer

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the community you’ll be serving. Familiarise yourself with local resources, events, and organisations that support individuals who may need befriending. This knowledge will help you connect better with your clients and show your commitment to making a difference.

✨Tip Number 2

Show genuine interest in the lives of those you’ll be befriending. Practice active listening skills and think about how you can engage them in conversation. This will not only help you build rapport but also make your visits more enjoyable for both you and your client.

✨Tip Number 3

Consider your own strengths and interests when thinking about how you can support your clients. Whether it’s sharing hobbies, playing games, or simply being a good listener, tailoring your approach to what you enjoy will make your time together more fulfilling.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with other volunteers and staff at StudySmarter. They can provide valuable insights and tips on how to effectively engage with clients. Building these connections can enhance your experience and help you feel more supported in your role.

We think you need these skills to ace Befriending Volunteer

Empathy
Active Listening
Communication Skills
Patience
Interpersonal Skills
Reliability
Companionship
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Basic Gardening Skills
Basic Shopping Assistance
Community Engagement
Understanding of Mental Health Issues
Respect for Diversity

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what being a Befriending Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the impact you can have on someone's life.

Tailor Your CV: Highlight any relevant experience you have, especially in volunteering or working with individuals who may be isolated. Emphasise skills such as communication, empathy, and reliability.

Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your motivation for applying. Share why you want to be a befriender and how you believe you can make a difference in someone’s life.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Wimbledon Guild

✨Show Your Empathy

As a befriending volunteer, empathy is key. During the interview, share personal experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with others and understand their feelings. This will show the interviewer that you genuinely care about making a difference in someone's life.

✨Be Prepared to Discuss Your Availability

Since the role requires a commitment of time, be clear about your availability. Whether you can spare an hour a week or a month, communicate this openly. It shows reliability and helps the organisation plan effectively for their clients.

✨Highlight Your Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in this role. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with clients, whether through conversation, activities, or simply being present. Providing examples of past interactions can strengthen your case.

✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility

Befriending can take many forms, from home visits to community outings. Show that you are adaptable and willing to meet clients where they are most comfortable. This flexibility can make a significant impact on the quality of support you provide.

Befriending Volunteer
Wimbledon Guild
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