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- Tasks: Support clients experiencing loneliness through regular contact and engaging activities.
- Company: Connection Support helps vulnerable individuals at risk of homelessness or needing social care.
- Benefits: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Why this job: Join a compassionate team and help others build confidence and social connections.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring a non-judgemental attitude and good communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible hours, just 2-3 hours a week can change someone's life!
Connection Support has a range of services providing support to people at risk of homelessness or on the edge of needing social care. We work with people made vulnerable through debt, mental health issues, substance misuse, learning disability, and physical disabilities.
Volunteers play a key role in the provision of vital services to our clients. Could you prevent loneliness and isolation in your community and become a befriender? Do you have 2-3 hours a week to give to a client experiencing loneliness or mental health issues? Can you offer support, through a listening ear and be a positive influence in a client's life to help build self-esteem and confidence? Will you enable our clients to benefit from knowing someone is there to listen, be a friend, and check in on their wellbeing? If you can answer 'yes' to these questions, then we would love to hear from you!
Key ResponsibilitiesYour role will include, but is not restricted to the following tasks:
- Contact the client(s) you are supporting on a regular basis as agreed. This can be in a variety of settings, e.g. client's home, or in the community (via face-to-face meetings, phone or video calls).
- Carry out activities as agreed with the client and Connection Support.
- Help clients rediscover social skills and confidence and engage in activities within the community.
- Report any concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator.
No qualifications or volunteering experience is required; however, the below skills are essential:
- A non-judgemental approach.
- Good listening and communication skills.
- Reliable and trustworthy.
- Respect confidentiality.
- Be able to work on own initiative.
- Ability to engage productively with clients in a respectful way.
Befriender - Volunteer employer: Connection Support
Contact Detail:
Connection Support Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Befriender - Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by individuals at risk of homelessness or those experiencing mental health issues. Understanding these topics will help you connect better with potential clients and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage in local community events or volunteer opportunities related to mental health and social care. This not only builds your experience but also expands your network, which can be beneficial when applying for the Befriender role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice active listening skills with friends or family. Being a befriender requires excellent communication, so honing these skills in everyday conversations can prepare you for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to current or former volunteers at Connection Support to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information about the role and help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Befriender - Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to understand the Befriender role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the skills required, such as good listening and communication skills, to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your passion for helping others and your understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals. Share any relevant experiences or qualities that make you a suitable befriender.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your CV, emphasise skills that align with the role, such as reliability, non-judgemental attitude, and ability to engage respectfully with clients. Use specific examples to demonstrate these skills in action.
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, which is crucial in a supportive role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Connection Support
✨Show Your Empathy
As a befriender, empathy is key. During the interview, share personal experiences where you've supported someone in need or demonstrated understanding towards others' feelings. This will highlight your ability to connect with clients.
✨Demonstrate Good Listening Skills
Listening is crucial in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you actively listen and respond to others. You might even want to practice active listening techniques before the interview to showcase your skills effectively.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Confidentiality
Since you'll be dealing with sensitive information, it's important to understand confidentiality. Be ready to explain why it's vital and how you would ensure that clients' privacy is respected during your interactions.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Show your interest by preparing thoughtful questions about the befriender role and the organisation. Ask about the types of activities you might engage in with clients or how they support volunteers, which demonstrates your commitment to the position.
