Volunteer Befriender

Looking for a volunteering opportunity? See the latest Scotland-wide volunteering opportunities at Volunteer Scotland. We also regularly update our website with the latest opportunities within West Lothian.

To find the right opportunity for you, use keywords and your postcode (e.g., EH48 1AX) to refine your search.

Time Commitment: We offer support which can last up to 9 months and ask volunteers to commit to a few hours per week/fortnight for a minimum of 6 months.

Location: West Lothian wide

You will be carefully matched with a client and will encourage and support them to take part in activities they wish to focus on to reach their goals. Your support and encouragement could help them to:

• Remain independent at home, socially connected, and engaged
• Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation
• Increase self-confidence
• Create links with the local community
• Develop informal local support networks

Examples of activities include:

• Taking up a new hobby or interest
• Joining a local club or group (e.g., activity groups, walking groups, dementia cafes)
• Visiting a library, church, local gallery, or exhibition
• Attending events (e.g., galas, open days, taster sessions, tea dances)
• Going for short walks

Experience required

Skills we’re looking for:

• Good listening and communication skills
• Friendly personality / approachable
• Reliable with good timekeeping
• Patience and empathy
• Non-judgemental
• Respectful of confidentiality
• Able to work within set boundaries
• Keep accurate visit records and feed back to the team regularly

Support

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

• PVG Scheme Membership (organised by Cyrenians, no fee)

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