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- Tasks: Visit and read stories to a lovely lady while sharing sweets and companionship.
- Company: Join Mencap, the leading charity for learning disabilities in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have expenses reimbursed.
- Other info: Flexible visiting hours with ongoing support from a dedicated team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enjoying storytelling and sweet treats.
- Qualifications: Be friendly, reliable, and passionate about supporting those with learning disabilities.
To apply for this role, please follow the link to our application form on our volunteering website, linked below:
We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check‑in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.
We are looking for someone to come and visit a lady in her mid‑50s, who absolutely loves having a book read to her. She particularly likes classic fairy tales, so if you like reading aloud and enjoy storytelling this is the role for you! She has limited verbal communication, but loves people coming to see her and spend some time reading a book (or two!) with her. She is also a great lover of sweets (jelly babies are number one), so no visit is complete without sharing some sweets and biscuits.
The best time of day for a visit is around 11am in the morning, and ideally on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday - but there is some flexibility around this so weekend visits could be arranged if necessary.
This is a Stop‑and‑stay, let’s get busy visitor role which means the person you will be visiting can communicate actively with you and take part in choosing or planning activities. As you get to know each other you may choose to ‘go out’ either with or without support from the staff that supports the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do.
Visits will vary in length but tend to be around an hour or longer, depending on what you do. In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:
- Sitting and having a chat
- Checking in on their well‑being
- Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
- Enjoying a walk
- A craft activity at home
- Reading a book/magazine together
As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:
- Friendly and approachable
- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
- Reliable and patient
- Passionate about supporting people with a learning disability.
Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit. Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training. Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed. Get ongoing support, and feel appreciated and valued.
About Mencap: Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives. Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.
If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us: volunteering@mencap.org.uk
Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Storybook reading and sweets! - Gosport) in Hampshire employer: Royal Mencap Society
Contact Detail:
Royal Mencap Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Storybook reading and sweets! - Gosport) in Hampshire
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with Mencap's mission and the specific needs of the person you'll be visiting. This way, you can tailor your approach and show genuine interest during your interactions.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way in building trust and rapport. Share your own stories and interests while reading those classic fairy tales – it’ll make the experience more enjoyable for both of you!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget the sweets! Bringing along some jelly babies or biscuits can really brighten up your visits. It’s a simple gesture that shows you care and makes the time spent together even sweeter.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded! Each visit might bring new opportunities for activities or conversations. Be ready to adapt and try different things based on what your visitor enjoys – it’s all about making meaningful connections!
We think you need these skills to ace Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Storybook reading and sweets! - Gosport) in Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you passionate about volunteering. Don’t be afraid to share your love for storytelling and sweets!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the role. If you've read stories to others or have a knack for making people feel comfortable, mention it! We’re looking for friendly and approachable volunteers.
Show Your Commitment: Since this role involves regular visits, it’s important to express your reliability and willingness to commit. Let us know how you can fit this into your schedule, especially around those preferred visit times!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our volunteering website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you started on this rewarding journey. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Mencap Society
✨Know Your Storytelling Skills
Since this role involves reading classic fairy tales, brush up on your storytelling skills. Think about how you can engage the listener with your voice and expressions. Practise reading aloud to friends or family to get comfortable with the flow of the stories.
✨Show Your Passion for Companionship
During the interview, express your genuine interest in building connections with people who have learning disabilities. Share any previous experiences you've had in similar roles or situations, highlighting your patience and reliability.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Activities
Think about various activities you could do during your visits beyond just reading. Whether it’s a craft activity or a simple walk, be prepared to share your ideas. This shows that you’re proactive and ready to create enjoyable experiences.
✨Understand the Importance of Well-being
Make sure you convey your understanding of the importance of checking in on someone's well-being. Be ready to discuss how you would approach this aspect of the role, ensuring that the person feels valued and cared for during your visits.