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- Tasks: Provide companionship and support to individuals with acquired brain injuries.
- Company: Brainkind supports people with neurological conditions across the UK, creating positive change.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, enhance your CV, and join a welcoming community of volunteers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing new skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: A friendly approach, reliability, and understanding of guidelines are essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training provided, and opportunities for feedback and growth.
Brainkind have a network of services across the UK that support people with acquired brain injury and other neurological conditions. Our neurological centres, residential homes, hospitals, and supported living services across the UK are there to help people wherever they are in their journey.
Why volunteer with Brainkind?
If you are looking for a rewarding and fulfilling volunteer experience, where you can make a tangible difference in the lives of others, Brainkind is the perfect place for you. By joining us, you will have the chance to make a meaningful impact, develop new skills, and be part of a supportive and inclusive family dedicated to creating positive change.
About the role:
As a Befriender with Brainkind you will provide companionship to people during a difficult time in their lives and enable people to do the things that matter most to them. You will be helping Brainkind provide the best possible care to people with acquired brain injuries and neurological conditions that require complex care, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness.
We take a completely person-centred approach to all our services and support which means each befriending relationship will be different.
Activities may include:
• Visiting a person with whom you have been matched for companionship
• Sharing hobbies and interests to build a connection and rapport
• Providing regular one-to-one companionship
• Developing a supportive relationship based on trust and understanding
• Going for walks or engaging in creative activities together
• Sharing memories and stories
• Take part in one-to-one recreational activities such as reading, or playing board games
How often we would like your support:
1-2 hours per week but this can be flexible to support both your needs and those of the person you will be supporting.
What we hope you will bring to the role:
• A friendly and supportive approach
• Reliability and trustworthiness
• An understanding of the importance of working within guidelines and always report anything of concern to a supervisor
What you can expect from us:
We want to provide a volunteering environment that is inclusive, stimulating, friendly and supportive. As part of our commitment to you we will:
• Ensure you have a clear idea of what your role involves
• Make sure you have all the training you need
• Ensure you feel appreciated and respected
• Provide you with regular support
• Ask for feedback and provide you with opportunities to help shape our future
• Celebrate your successes and recognise your contribution
• Resolve any concerns or complaints promptly and fairly
• Reimburse any agreed out-of-pocket expenses
Some of the benefits to you:
• Gain valuable experience and skills
• Make a real difference
• Join a supportive and welcoming community of volunteers and employees that celebrate diversity and individual differences
• Make new friends and feel connected
• Build your confidence and improve your own wellbeing
• Enhance your CV and future job opportunities
In addition to the specific duties and responsibilities outlined in this profile, all Brainkind volunteers should be aware of their specific responsibilities:
• Demonstrate a commitment to undertaking relevant checks, training, and following all Brainkind’s policies and procedures
• Adhering to health and safety and fire regulations and cooperate with the charity in maintaining good standards of health and safety
• Promoting a positive attitude towards diversity and inclusion
To join our friendly team please press Apply Now.
**Please note we will be shortlisting and interviewing candidates on a rolling basis until the role is filled therefore, we recommend applying as soon as possible. **
*All successful candidates are subject to compliance checks including 3 years of checkable references and DBS/PVG checks*
Brainkind is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive organisation. It’s a place where we recognise, celebrate, and live our values which includes offering a range of inclusive employment policies and staff engagement forums to support employees from all backgrounds.
volunteers are expected to maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information, including following data protection regulations, to protect those that we support
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Volunteer Befriender - Ely employer: Brainkind Neurological Centre York
Contact Detail:
Brainkind Neurological Centre York Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Befriender - Ely
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Brainkind's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting individuals with acquired brain injuries will help you connect better with the team and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current volunteers or staff members if possible. This can provide you with insights into the befriending role and the impact it has on those you’ll be supporting, making your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your interpersonal skills during any informal discussions or interviews. As a Befriender, your ability to build rapport and trust is crucial, so be sure to highlight relevant experiences where you've successfully connected with others.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various scenarios that may arise while befriending someone. This shows your understanding of the role's challenges and your readiness to provide compassionate support.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Befriender - Ely
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Volunteer Befriender position. Understand the responsibilities and the qualities Brainkind is looking for in a candidate.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous volunteer work, interpersonal skills, or experiences that demonstrate your reliability and supportive nature.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your motivation for wanting to volunteer with Brainkind. Share why you are passionate about supporting individuals with acquired brain injuries and how you can contribute to their well-being.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is important for a role focused on care and support.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brainkind Neurological Centre York
✨Show Your Compassion
As a Volunteer Befriender, demonstrating empathy and compassion is crucial. Be prepared to share examples of how you've supported others in difficult times, highlighting your ability to connect with people on a personal level.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a befriender. Discuss how you can provide companionship and support, and be ready to explain how you would approach building trust and rapport with those you will be helping.
✨Highlight Your Reliability
Reliability is key in this role. Be sure to convey your commitment to being dependable and trustworthy. Share any past experiences where your reliability made a positive impact on someone else's life.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Since the role requires a flexible commitment of 1-2 hours per week, express your willingness to adapt your schedule to meet the needs of those you will be supporting. This shows that you are considerate of their circumstances.
