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- Tasks: Support unpaid carers by providing companionship and practical help in their community.
- Company: Caring Together Charity, dedicated to supporting carers and improving wellbeing.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, comprehensive training, and reimbursement for travel expenses.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy the rewarding experience of helping others.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Friendly, approachable, and committed individuals with good communication skills.
Our Norfolk Befriending Service aims to offer an inclusive, trusted service that links volunteers with unpaid carers to help reduce loneliness and isolation, build confidence, and improve wellbeing. The role is flexible to suit your interests and lifestyle and we look to match people who share similar hobbies and interests, enabling both parties to benefit from the service.
Volunteer Befrienders provide a range of support for unpaid carers, from regular companionship at home, as well as supporting carers to use services in their community whether that is heading to the library or taking part in a hobby, or providing practical support such as dog walking, collecting prescriptions, shopping or gardening. Volunteer Befrienders can also offer companionship for the person that the carer looks after at home, to help make it easier for the carer to get out into their local community for activities that give them support, friendship and improve their wellbeing.
Expectations
- Visits are agreed in advance between the volunteer and the charity.
- If you are unable to make a session, please let the charity know as soon as possible.
- Volunteers are asked to write a short summary of each visit.
- Volunteers are offered ongoing support via telephone, online sessions and face-to-face meetings, depending on their preference.
About you
- A desire to make a difference to people’s lives.
- Like working as part of a team.
- Be approachable and non-judgemental.
- Enthusiasm.
- Be friendly and enjoy meeting and supporting people.
- Good verbal/written communication skills.
- Good listening and conversation skills.
- Be committed, reliable and trustworthy.
- Be understanding and respectful.
- An ability to demonstrate patience and sensitivity.
Full and comprehensive training will be given as well as regular debriefing and ongoing support. Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.
Thank you for your interest and for taking the time to read about our Befriending service. We really hope you will join our volunteer team and help provide companionship and support to unpaid carers in your community.
Time commitment
The role is flexible to suit your interests and lifestyle. Volunteering can be daytime, evening or weekends to suit the volunteer’s lifestyle and commitments. We ask for a minimum of 6 months commitment, ideally 2-3 hours a week or fortnight depending on availability.
About the organisation
Three in five of us will become a carer at some point in our life. Caring Together Charity is a regional charity that provides emotional and practical support, advice and guidance to carers of all ages and their families, as well as opportunities to take a break from their caring role.
How to apply
If you are interested in this role and would like to apply or would like more information, contact the Volunteer Hub at Merchants’ Place – E: volhub@merchantsplace.co.uk T: 01263 519454. Alternatively, you can complete an online registration form and your details will be sent to us directly. A link for the form can be found on our Volunteer Hub page on our website.
Befriender Befriender - For unpaid carers - VH260 Caring Together - Norfolk Befriending Service employer: Merchantsplace
Contact Detail:
Merchantsplace Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Befriender Befriender - For unpaid carers - VH260 Caring Together - Norfolk Befriending Service
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Caring Together and their Befriending Service. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect better during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current volunteers or staff members on social media. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This can give you insider knowledge and make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since good verbal and written communication is key for this role, consider doing mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you articulate your passion for supporting unpaid carers and showcase your listening skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with our online community. Don’t forget to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Befriender Befriender - For unpaid carers - VH260 Caring Together - Norfolk Befriending Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When 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 interests and what motivates you to volunteer.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for friendly, approachable individuals, so show us how you fit that bill!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your points quickly and easily, making it easier for us to see your potential.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes straight to us. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merchantsplace
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Befriender role and how it fits into the Caring Together service. Familiarise yourself with the expectations, responsibilities, and the impact this role has on unpaid carers. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit.
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for making a difference shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your desire to support others, especially in a caring capacity. This will resonate well with the interviewers and show them your commitment.
✨Demonstrate Good Communication Skills
As a Befriender, strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Practice active listening and be prepared to discuss how you would approach conversations with both carers and those they care for. This will showcase your ability to connect and build rapport.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the training process, ongoing support, or how the charity measures the success of its befriending service. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.