At a Glance
- Tasks: Become a buddy for a young person in care and provide support and friendship.
- Company: Join a community-focused organisation dedicated to improving young lives.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make a difference, and enjoy fun activities together.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 2-3 hours monthly with full training provided.
- Why this job: Be a positive role model and help build confidence in young people.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for helping others.
Part time, 2-3 hours once a month.
Overview
If you want to volunteer, have fun, and make a difference to a young person's life, this is the perfect volunteer opportunity. Become a buddy for a child or young person living in care in Doncaster.
Responsibilities
A buddy is a trained volunteer who visits and befriends a young person in care (usually aged between 8 and 18 years old). The aim of the role is to be a positive adult role model and provide one-to-one time and space for a young person to talk, feel listened to, valued, and have some fun. Buddies meet with their young person for 2-3 hours once a month and spend time together. They do activities, go out for food, talk, and generally have an enjoyable time.
We ask for a minimum commitment of two years for this volunteering role as buddies play an important part in their young person's development. This consistent friendship helps the young person to build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.
Examples of activities buddies do with their young person are:
- Go to the cinema, bowling, ice skating
- Go to the park, dog walking, play football
- Visit a local museum, gallery, theatre
- Go to a restaurant or café
A set budget and travel expenses are provided per calendar month.
Can I volunteer?
We are looking for positive, reliable, and enthusiastic volunteers from all different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. You do not need any specific qualifications or experience to volunteer, just an interest in the development and welfare of children. Full training is provided for this role with continual support from your designated coordinator.
Requirements
- 18 years or older.
- Able to relate well to young people and have a genuine interest in their welfare.
- Aware of and sensitive to the impact of race, culture, language, religion, ability, gender or sexual orientation and to challenge prejudicial attitudes and discriminatory behaviour.
- Willing to undergo background checks, an enhanced DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) and provide two references.
- If you have lived in the UK for less than five years, you are required to obtain an overseas criminal record check(s) from the overseas country/countries you have resided in, in the last five years.
- Able to attend an informal interview and complete a full day of initial training.
- Committed to meeting your young person once a month for a minimum of two years.
- Able to develop a trusting relationship with your young person which will require patience and understanding. This can be a slow process.
- Willing to share any child protection concerns that arise which are beyond the realms of confidentiality.
- Complete a brief visit recording form and expenses form after each visit.
Please note: The independence of the Buddy Scheme is vital, therefore anyone who works for Doncaster Children's Services or as a local councillor unfortunately cannot be a volunteer. This also applies to partners and spouses of these staff members.
This post involves working with children and, if successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service record check at an enhanced level.
Doncaster Council is committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community where we strive to improve the quality of life for all. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and expect all staff to share these commitments.
Address: Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster, DN1 3BU
Buddy Scheme Volunteer (CDC) in Doncaster employer: Job Search Place Limited
As a Buddy Scheme Volunteer in Doncaster, you will join a supportive community dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in care. Our organisation fosters a positive and inclusive work culture, offering full training and ongoing support to ensure you feel valued and equipped in your role. With flexible hours and the opportunity to build lasting relationships, this volunteer position not only enriches the lives of those you help but also provides personal growth and fulfilment for you as a volunteer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buddy Scheme Volunteer (CDC) in Doncaster
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Buddy Scheme inside out! Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, so you can show genuine enthusiasm during your informal interview. We want to see that you’re passionate about making a difference in a young person's life.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! Authenticity is key when building trust with your young buddy. Share your own experiences and interests, as this will help create a genuine connection. Remember, it’s all about having fun and being a positive role model!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some fun activity ideas in advance! Think about what you could do together, like going to the cinema or visiting a local museum. This shows that you’re proactive and ready to engage with your buddy right from the start.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Buddy Scheme Volunteer (CDC) in Doncaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your interests and what makes you tick.
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express why you’re interested in becoming a buddy. We love hearing about your enthusiasm for making a difference in a young person's life, so share your motivation!
Tailor Your Application:Read through the job description carefully and align your experiences with the responsibilities listed. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that show you can be a positive role model.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your volunteering journey.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand what being a Buddy Scheme Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and think about how your experiences align with the role. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role is all about making a positive impact on a young person's life. During the interview, let your passion for helping others shine through. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to supporting young people.
✨Be Prepared for Scenarios
You might be asked how you'd handle specific situations with a young person. Think about potential challenges and how you would approach them. Showing that you can think on your feet and are sensitive to their needs will impress the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Inquire about the training process or how the Buddy Scheme supports its volunteers. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and want to ensure it’s a good fit for both you and the young person.
