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- Tasks: Spend quality time providing calm companionship to a man in his 60s.
- Company: Join Mencap, the leading charity for learning disabilities in the UK.
- Benefits: Receive training, support, and reimbursement for expenses while making a difference.
- Why this job: Create meaningful connections and bring joy through simple acts of kindness.
- Qualifications: Be friendly, patient, and passionate about supporting individuals with learning disabilities.
- Other info: Enjoy a rewarding experience while developing your skills and meeting new people.
The predicted salary is between 10 - 13 £ per hour.
We’re looking for a kind and patient volunteer befriender to spend time with a man in his 60s whom we support and who thrives on calm, reassuring company. Some of his happiest moments are spent sitting in his favourite armchair, listening to soothing classical music. As his visitor, you’d share these peaceful moments with him, perhaps offering a gentle hand massage while you relax together and enjoy the music.
As your connection grows, there may be opportunities to join him on one of his regular local walks, take a short bus ride, or visit his much loved local curry house. He communicates using single words and will often echo words spoken to him, so spending time together is less about conversation and more about companionship, warmth and presence. The essence of this role is simply being alongside him in a quiet, gentle and reassuring way.
He lives in a shared home with three other people and is supported by a team of kind and helpful staff who will welcome you and help you feel at ease. If you enjoy creating calm moments, building trust slowly, and making a difference through simple acts of kindness, this could be a deeply rewarding role for you.
This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you. The person you visit might choose to take part in simple activities or watch you doing the activities. 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 half an hour to an hour long.
In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:
- Being friendly and approachable
- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
- Being reliable and patient
- Being passionate about supporting people with a learning disability
As a Mencap visitor you will:
- 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.
Mencap Volunteer Visitor - (Relaxed Companionship, Leytonstone, London) 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 - (Relaxed Companionship, Leytonstone, London)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role and the person you'll be visiting. Spend some time researching Mencap and understanding 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
Practice your listening skills! Since communication might be limited, focus on being present and attentive. Use body language and facial expressions to convey warmth and reassurance, which is key in building trust with the person you'll be supporting.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for flexibility. Each visit can be different, so be open to adapting your activities based on the person's mood and preferences. Whether it's a quiet moment or a short walk, your ability to go with the flow will make your time together more enjoyable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to get started on this rewarding journey. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Mencap Volunteer Visitor - (Relaxed Companionship, Leytonstone, London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for companionship and kindness.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to highlight your relevant experiences that align with the role. Mention any previous volunteering or experiences that showcase your patience and ability to connect with others.
Keep It Simple: Remember, this role is all about calm and gentle companionship. Use clear and straightforward language in your application to reflect the essence of the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Mencap Society
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, take some time to really understand what being a Mencap Volunteer Visitor entails. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, like providing calm companionship and engaging in simple activities. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the role.
✨Show Your Kindness
During the interview, let your genuine kindness and patience shine through. Share personal experiences where you've supported someone or created a calming environment. This will demonstrate that you embody the qualities Mencap is looking for in a volunteer.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer about the role and the person you'll be visiting. This shows your interest and commitment to making a positive impact. For example, you could ask about the types of activities that have worked well in the past.
✨Be Yourself
Remember, this role is all about companionship and connection. Be authentic during your interview; let them see the real you. Mencap values individuals who are approachable and accepting, so don’t hesitate to express your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities.
