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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 flexibility to fit volunteering into your lifestyle.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: A friendly attitude, good communication skills, and a desire to help others.
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.
Befriender Befriender - For unpaid carers - VH260 Caring Together - Norfolk Befriending Service in London 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 in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Caring Together and their mission. Understanding their 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 or past volunteers on social media or community forums. They can give you insider tips on what to expect and how to stand out as a Befriender.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role is all about connecting with people, try role-playing conversations with friends or family. This will help you feel more confident when chatting with potential matches.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll get all the latest updates and info about the role right from the source!
We think you need these skills to ace Befriender Befriender - For unpaid carers - VH260 Caring Together - Norfolk Befriending Service in London
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.
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express your desire to make a difference in the lives of unpaid carers. We love seeing enthusiasm for helping others, so highlight any relevant experiences or skills that showcase your commitment.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Make your application easy to read by using straightforward language and keeping your points focused. This helps us understand your suitability for the role quickly.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application directly, and you’ll find all the information you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merchantsplace
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the Befriender role thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and expectations outlined in the job description. This will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with what they’re looking for.
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
This role is all about making a difference in people's lives, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've supported others in the past. Whether it’s through volunteering or personal experiences, demonstrating your enthusiasm for helping unpaid carers will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Practice Active Listening
During the interview, showcase your good listening skills by engaging with the interviewer. Nod, ask clarifying questions, and reflect on what they say. This not only shows that you’re attentive but also highlights your ability to connect with others, which is crucial for a Befriender.
✨Be Yourself and Stay Relaxed
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to be yourself! The organisation values approachability and friendliness, so let your personality shine through. A relaxed attitude will help you communicate better and leave a positive impression.