At a Glance
- Tasks: Mentor and befriend young people in care through fun monthly activities.
- Company: A compassionate organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable youth.
- Benefits: Make a real difference, gain valuable experience, and receive training.
- Other info: Ongoing support and training provided; travel expenses covered.
- Why this job: Be a consistent, caring adult and change a young person's life.
- Qualifications: Friendly, patient, and committed individuals who can listen and support.
About the Role
Are you looking for a meaningful, long-term volunteering role where you can make a positive difference in a young person's life?
If yes, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
We're seeking compassionate, reliable adults to become Independent Visitors – volunteer mentors and trusted friends to children and young people in care.
What is an Independent Visitor?
An Independent Visitor (IV) is a volunteer befriender and mentor who visits a young person in care once a month, usually on weekends, to enjoy fun, supportive activities together.
As an IV, you'll be a consistent, caring adult outside their professional network – someone who chooses to be there, just for them.
This is a long‑term role, and we ask volunteers to commit to at least two years to help build a strong, stable relationship.
We're especially keen to hear from volunteers based in or near London, Croydon and Kent, where many of our young people live.
Why it matters
Young people in care often face instability and frequent change. Having a consistent adult who listens, encourages and simply spends time with them can be life changing.
Responsibilities
- Meet your young person once a month for activities such as going to the cinema, bowling, exploring parks or just having a chat.
- Suggest age‑appropriate outings based on their interests.
- Keep in touch between visits with a weekly call or message (if they'd like).
- Occasionally join in on group events.
- Create meaningful, lasting memories.
- Travel and activity expenses will be covered.
- Training & Ongoing Support
- Full initial training.
- Ongoing support and one‑to‑one supervision.
- Access to additional training through Southwark's volunteer resources.
Qualifications & Commitment
- Friendly and approachable.
- Patient, empathetic and consistent.
- A good listener.
- Committed to visiting once a month for at least two years.
- Willing to complete training and safeguarding checks.
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