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- Tasks: Visit and befriend an older gentleman with a learning disability, enjoying outings together.
- Company: Join Mencap, the leading charity for learning disabilities in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have expenses reimbursed.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enjoying fun activities together.
- Qualifications: Be friendly, patient, and passionate about supporting others.
- Other info: Flexible hours, supportive team, and opportunities to develop your skills.
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 a volunteer to visit an older gentleman with a learning disability who lives in a home, directly between Reigate and Redhill town centres. He has a special interest in cars and also enjoys sensory items and activities. He is non-verbal but uses his body language to communicate. He would love for someone to take him out to a garden centre for a look around and some tea and cake, or a nice visit and spot of lunch at a countryside pub! He also loves going to the coast, visiting museums (particularly car museums), or to race courses like Brands Hatch (you will always be supported by a member of staff on your visits). He is a gentle and quiet chap who prefers quieter and more settled environments. A volunteer who is patient and happy to go at a slower pace of life would be beneficial!
He is more of a morning person, so visits would ideally happen earlier in the day, and he is very flexible, loving to see someone on any day of the week! This is an Out and About visit role, which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active, and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. 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 a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to 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 wellbeing
- Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
- Taking part in community activities like visiting a place of interest or going shopping
- Enjoying a walk
- A craft activity at home
As a Mencap volunteer visitor, you will be:
- Friendly and approachable
- Accepting of others who might be different from yourself
- Reliable and patient
- Passionate about supporting people with a learning disability
You will have the opportunity to help make a difference in the life of the person you visit, receive a personalised volunteer induction and training, have agreed out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed, and get ongoing support while feeling 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 while 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 (Cars, garden centres, and tea and cake! - Reigate and Redhill) 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 (Cars, garden centres, and tea and cake! - Reigate and Redhill)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role and the person you'll be visiting! Research Mencap and understand their mission. This will help you connect better during your visits and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! When you meet the person, let your personality shine through. Authenticity helps build trust and rapport, which is key in creating a meaningful connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Plan fun outings together! Think about activities that align with their interests, like visiting car museums or enjoying tea and cake at a local café. Having a few ideas up your sleeve can make your visits more enjoyable.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and patient! Each visit might be different, so be ready to adapt to their mood and preferences. Your willingness to go at their pace will make all the difference in their experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Cars, garden centres, and tea and cake! - Reigate and Redhill)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you passionate about volunteering. Share your experiences and interests that relate to the role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills match what we're looking for. Mention any relevant experience you have with people with learning disabilities or in similar volunteer roles.
Show Your Commitment: We’re looking for reliable and patient volunteers, so make sure to express your commitment to the role. Let us know how you plan to dedicate your time and how you can be a consistent presence in the life of the person you'll be visiting.
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 back to you. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Mencap!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Mencap Society
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of being a Mencap Volunteer Visitor. Understand the importance of companionship and how your role can positively impact someone’s life. Be ready to discuss how your skills and interests align with the needs of the person you’ll be visiting.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your genuine enthusiasm for supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference. This will help convey your dedication to the role and the values of Mencap.
✨Be Patient and Understanding
Since the individual you’ll be visiting is non-verbal, it’s crucial to demonstrate your patience and ability to communicate through body language. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully interacted with people in similar situations, showcasing your adaptability and empathy.
✨Plan Fun Activities
Think about potential outings or activities that align with the interests of the person you’ll be visiting, like trips to garden centres or car museums. Bring ideas to the interview to show your proactive approach and willingness to engage in meaningful experiences together.
