At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide companionship and support to individuals with neurological conditions.
- Company: Brainkind, a charity dedicated to supporting those with acquired brain injuries.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, enhance your CV, and make new friends.
- Other info: Flexible hours, supportive community, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while developing new skills.
- Qualifications: Friendly, reliable, and effective communication skills required.
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
- Effective communication skills
- 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
More information about volunteering:
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.
Volunteer Befriender - Lancashire in Preston employer: Brainkind
Brainkind is an exceptional employer for those seeking a meaningful volunteer experience in Lancashire, where you can truly make a difference in the lives of individuals with acquired brain injuries and neurological conditions. Our inclusive and supportive work culture fosters personal growth, allowing volunteers to develop valuable skills while being part of a community that celebrates diversity and individual contributions. With flexible hours and a commitment to recognising your efforts, Brainkind offers a rewarding environment that enhances both your wellbeing and future opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Befriender - Lancashire in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Brainkind's mission and values inside out. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations to show how your personal values align with theirs. This connection can really make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Befriender, you'll need to connect with people on a personal level. Try role-playing with friends or family to get comfortable sharing your thoughts and listening actively.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your approach! Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to Brainkind, ask questions, and express your enthusiasm for the role. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to jump in.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age of volunteering.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Befriender - Lancashire in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what motivates you to volunteer with us.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for. This shows us that you understand the role and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team.
Show Your Passion:We love seeing candidates who are passionate about making a difference! In your application, mention any relevant experiences or interests that demonstrate your commitment to supporting people with neurological conditions.
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for both of us, please apply directly through our website. It streamlines the process and ensures your application gets to the right place quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brainkind
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, take some time to really understand what being a Volunteer Befriender involves. Familiarise yourself with the activities you might be doing, like sharing hobbies or providing companionship. This will help you articulate why you're passionate about the role and how you can make a difference.
✨Show Your Empathy
As a befriender, empathy is key. Think of examples from your past where you've supported someone in need or built a connection with someone. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your friendly and supportive approach.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer about the organisation and the role. This shows your genuine interest in Brainkind and the impact you can have. You might ask about the training provided or how they support volunteers in their roles.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Be honest about your experiences and what you hope to gain from volunteering. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their inclusive and supportive environment, so let your personality shine through!
