At a Glance
- Tasks: Visit and befriend an older gentleman, sharing treats and meaningful conversations.
- Company: Join Mencap, a leading charity supporting people with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have your expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enjoying chocolate and companionship.
- Qualifications: Be friendly, reliable, and passionate about supporting others.
- Other info: Flexible visiting hours and ongoing support from the volunteer manager.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
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 and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.
This role will involve visiting an older gentleman in his home in Epsom. He absolutely loves Maltesers, so bringing him this special treat is a special part of the visit for him! This visit will involve sitting with him and chatting to him and his staff to see how he is doing, either in the living room or outside in the garden in the summertime.
He visits a day centre or goes out for activities on Monday afternoons, Tuesday mornings, and Friday afternoons, but otherwise is flexible around what time you can visit. 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. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.
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.
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.
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 (Chocolate lovers in Epsom!) in Woolwich 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 (Chocolate lovers in Epsom!) in Woolwich
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role and the people 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 you're visiting, let your personality shine through. A friendly smile and a warm approach can make all the difference, especially for someone who may not have many visitors.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring along some treats or sensory items that you think they might enjoy. Whether it's Maltesers or something else, these little gestures can create a lovely connection and brighten their day!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to reach out for support! Your volunteer manager is there to help you with ideas and suggestions. Plus, connecting with other volunteers can provide you with tips and encouragement as you embark on this rewarding journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Chocolate lovers in Epsom!) in Woolwich
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 why you're passionate about volunteering with Mencap. Share your love for chocolate and how you connect with others.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've got any experience working with people with learning disabilities or in a similar role, make sure to mention it! Even if it's just chatting with friends or family, every bit counts and shows us your commitment.
Show Your Passion: We’re looking for volunteers who are genuinely excited about making a difference. In your application, express why you want to be a Mencap Volunteer Visitor and how you plan to bring joy to 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, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Mencap Society
✨Know Your Chocolate!
Since the role involves visiting a gentleman who loves Maltesers, it’s a great idea to brush up on your knowledge of his favourite treats. Bring some along to the interview to show your enthusiasm and understanding of what makes the visits special.
✨Show Your Friendly Side
This role is all about being approachable and friendly. During the interview, make sure to smile and engage warmly with your interviewer. Share any experiences you have that demonstrate your ability to connect with people, especially those who may be different from you.
✨Be Prepared to Listen
Listening is key in this role, especially since some individuals may not communicate verbally. In your interview, highlight your listening skills and any relevant experiences where you’ve had to be patient and attentive to others’ needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Mencap is looking for volunteers who are passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities. Be ready to share why this cause matters to you and how you can contribute positively to the lives of those you’ll be visiting.