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- Tasks: Visit and befriend adults with learning disabilities, providing companionship and support.
- Company: Mencap, a leading charity for learning disabilities in the UK.
- Benefits: Personalised training, reimbursement of expenses, and ongoing support.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in someone's life through gentle companionship.
- Qualifications: Kind-hearted, reliable, and passionate about supporting those with learning disabilities.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team and develop your skills while making an impact.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Mencap offers 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 are expected to visit six times a year, and in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.
We’re looking for a kind-hearted volunteer befriender to visit a man in his 70s who enjoys calm, friendly company. He lives in a warm and welcoming shared home with three other people and is supported by a team of kind and helpful staff who will be on hand to guide you. Your visits will take place in his home and may start off short and simple; a friendly check-in, a shared moment, a reassuring presence. As your connection develops, your time together may naturally grow.
Although he is non-verbal, he communicates beautifully through gestures, facial expressions, and the quiet joy he shows when someone is truly present with him. One of his favourite things is looking at pictures and videos of horses, and sharing these moments can be a wonderful way to bond. If you’re someone who enjoys gentle companionship, noticing the small things, and offering kindness simply by being there, this role could be a deeply meaningful opportunity to make a difference.
This is a Check-in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit:
- Checking in on their well-being and speaking to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing.
- You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit.
- Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences, so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit.
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
- 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
If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us: volunteering@mencap.org.uk
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 - (Warm, Quiet Connection - 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 - (Warm, Quiet Connection - Leytonstone, London)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your visit, do a bit of research on Mencap and their mission. This will help you connect better with the person you're visiting and show that you genuinely care about their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Be present and patient. When you meet the person, focus on being there for them. Sometimes, just sitting quietly and sharing a moment can mean the world to someone who may not communicate verbally.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring along something special! Whether it’s a treat or a sensory item, having something to share can create a lovely connection. It shows thoughtfulness and can spark joy during your visit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to reach out! If you have questions or need support, contact Mencap. They’re there to help you make the most of your volunteering experience, so don’t be shy!
We think you need these skills to ace Mencap Volunteer Visitor - (Warm, Quiet Connection - Leytonstone, London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your genuine passion for supporting others.
Show Your Kindness: This role is all about warmth and connection. Make sure to highlight any experiences where you've shown kindness or compassion, whether in volunteering or everyday life.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Mention specific skills or experiences that relate to befriending and supporting individuals with learning disabilities.
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, so we can get back to you as soon as possible!
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 specific needs of the person you’ll be visiting and think about how your skills and experiences can contribute to making a meaningful connection.
✨Show Your Kindness
During the interview, let your warm personality shine through. Share examples of how you've shown kindness or patience in previous roles or situations. This role is all about gentle companionship, so demonstrating your ability to connect with others is key.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the types of activities you might do with the person you’ll be visiting or how the support staff can assist you. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the people you’ll be working with.
✨Be Open About Your Availability
Since this role involves regular visits, be clear about your availability during the interview. Discuss how you can commit to the six visits a year and any flexibility you might have. Reliability is crucial, so showing that you’re dependable will work in your favour.
