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- Tasks: Provide support and friendship to children in care through fun activities.
- Company: Surrey County Council's Independent Visitor Service.
- Benefits: Personal satisfaction, training, support, and expense reimbursement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while enjoying quality time together.
- Qualifications: Must be over 21, with energy and passion for helping young people.
- Other info: Commit to one visit per month for at least two years.
Salary: This is an unpaid volunteering role
Working hours: 1 day per month for 2 years
Location: Surrey
Description
Are you ready to make a difference in a child or young person's life? If you're someone who loves fun activities and cherishes one-to-one time, then becoming a volunteer with our Independent Visitor Service might be the perfect fit for you!
But what exactly is an independent visitor? Imagine providing support and friendship for children and young people in care, those who are looked after by Surrey County Council and reside in foster care or children's homes. That's the essence of an independent visitor - a dedicated volunteer aged over 21 who visits, supports, and advises these children and young people.
Who could benefit from an independent visitor, you ask? Children and young people typically aged 10 to 17, who lack regular contact with family members or simply crave the joy of a regular visitor. Our children come from diverse cultures and backgrounds, each with their unique needs waiting to be fulfilled.
What's in it for you?
- Enjoyment from spending quality time with a child.
- Immense personal satisfaction from making a positive impact.
- Comprehensive initial and ongoing training.
- Dedicated support and backup every step of the way.
- Reimbursement of agreed expenses to ensure your commitment is sustainable.
What do we ask of you in return?
- Just one visit per month, usually over the weekend.
- A commitment to volunteer for at least two years, providing continuity and stability for the child.
- Your energy, time, and passion to enrich a young person's life.
- Active participation in independent visitor support groups and training sessions.
- Your consent for an enhanced criminal record check (DBS) and personal references, ensuring the safety and security of the children we serve.
Ready to embark on this rewarding journey?
Surrey Volunteer Companion for Children in Care employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Surrey Volunteer Companion for Children in Care
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their values and mission so you can show how your passion aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out when you chat with them.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers to get the inside scoop on what it’s really like. They might even give you tips on how to impress during your meet-up.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself during interviews! They want to see your genuine enthusiasm for making a difference in a child’s life. Share personal stories that highlight your commitment and energy.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and how to prepare for your volunteering journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Surrey Volunteer Companion for Children in Care
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passions and what makes you tick.
Show Your Commitment: Since this role requires a two-year commitment, make sure to highlight your dedication. Share any previous volunteering experiences or long-term commitments that demonstrate your reliability and passion for helping others.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills and experiences with what we’re looking for. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in making a difference.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, think about how your presence can positively influence a child's life. Be ready to share personal experiences or stories that highlight your passion for making a difference.
✨Show Your Fun Side
This role is all about engaging with children through fun activities. Prepare to discuss your favourite games or hobbies that you could share with a child. Let your enthusiasm shine!
✨Commitment is Key
Since this role requires a two-year commitment, be prepared to talk about your dedication and reliability. Share examples of how you've committed to long-term projects or relationships in the past.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with what an independent visitor does. Research the needs of children in care and be ready to discuss how you can provide support and companionship tailored to their unique backgrounds.
