At a Glance
- Tasks: Become a buddy for a young person in care and enjoy fun activities together.
- Company: Join a supportive community focused on making a difference in young lives.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and the joy of helping others.
- Other info: Commit to 2-3 hours once a month for at least two years.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while having fun and building lasting friendships.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just enthusiasm and a caring attitude.
Part time, 2-3 hours once a month.
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
Youth Buddy Volunteer — Build Confidence & Have Fun (Doncaster) employer: Job Search Place Limited
As a Youth Buddy 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 comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure you feel valued and equipped in your role. With flexible volunteering hours and a commitment to personal growth, this opportunity not only allows you to have fun but also helps build confidence and resilience in the youth you mentor.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Buddy Volunteer — Build Confidence & Have Fun (Doncaster)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Buddy Scheme and its values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! Since this role is all about building relationships, think of examples from your life where you've positively impacted someone. Share these stories during your chat to highlight your suitability.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Let your personality shine through and don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for working with young people.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join the team. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a real impact!
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Buddy Volunteer — Build Confidence & Have Fun (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 helping young people and making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application:Read through the job description carefully and align your experiences with the responsibilities listed. This shows us that you understand the role and are genuinely interested in it.
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 Youth Buddy Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the impact you can have on a young person's life. This will help you articulate your motivation and how you can contribute during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role is all about positivity and making connections. Be sure to express your genuine interest in working with young people and your excitement about the activities you could do together. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for helping others.
✨Prepare for Questions on Sensitivity
Expect questions about how you would handle sensitive topics or situations. Think about your approach to building trust and rapport with young people from diverse backgrounds. Be ready to discuss how you would challenge prejudicial attitudes and support their development.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the training process, ongoing support, or the types of activities you might engage in. This shows your commitment to the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you and the young person you'll be supporting.
