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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a child in care by building a trusting relationship and engaging in fun activities.
- Company: Join Hampshire County Council in making a positive impact on young lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, training, and reimbursement for travel and activity expenses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for helping young people.
- Other info: Volunteers receive comprehensive training and ongoing support throughout their journey.
To be an Independent Visitor (IV) is to be a trusted adult to a child or young person in care, where it is thought that this will be in their best interests to provide opportunities for children and young people to develop meaningful, long term relationships with adults. The IV volunteer scheme is a statutory service for children who are ‘looked after’ by the local authority. It is for those children who would benefit from having an IV in their life. This scheme is voluntary for the young person, which means that they can choose to have an IV at any time from age 8 years old up until they turn 21.
IVs need to be consistent and reliable, so that children can build a trusting, positive relationship with them over time. The child will have the opportunity to try new activities and spend time with their IV away from their placement. The IV will endeavor to become and remain a consistent adult in the child’s life, who does not change when placements or social workers do. IVs begin by supporting the young person fortnightly for the first 3 months, and then continue on a monthly basis. IVs can meet with young people Monday – Sunday between 9am and 8pm.
Skills
- Attend training sessions.
- Work with the Volunteer Coordinator to agree a match with a child/young person.
- Attend an initial meeting with the child/young person to agree the ongoing support.
- Meet with the child/young person and deliver the ongoing support agreed.
- Keep and submit brief records about your contact/visits with the child/young person you are matched with.
- Endeavor to provide support for a minimum of a year.
- Attend regular supervision/support sessions.
As an organisation we will:
- Offer training relevant to the role.
- Provide you with ongoing, high quality and timely support.
- Pay mileage expenses at 45p per mile plus any additional expenses that may be incurred.
Expenses
All volunteering expenses including mileage and parking will be paid. The volunteer will also be able to access a £25 budget per session. This is to be used by the volunteer and the child/young person to enhance the visit.
Health and Safety Policy
Ongoing support Training provided: Volunteers will receive full training consisting of one in-person induction day, an online safeguarding course, and a further day and a half of training in relation to supporting a child/young person. Volunteers will be supported during their time with Hampshire County Council by one of Hampshire’s locally based volunteer coordinators. Volunteers covered by insurance. Written role description will be provided once interest has been expressed.
When can I volunteer?
Availability: Morning: Yes Afternoon: Yes Evening: Yes
Location: This opportunity is available Countywide.
Independent Visitors (IV) employer: Volunteer First
Contact Detail:
Volunteer First Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Visitors (IV)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the needs of children in care. Understanding their backgrounds and challenges will help you connect better during your interactions, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your commitment to building long-term relationships. Highlight any previous experience where you've supported individuals over time, as this demonstrates reliability and consistency, which are key for an Independent Visitor.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with local community groups or organisations that work with children in care. Networking with these groups can provide insights and connections that may strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your availability and flexibility. Since the role requires meeting young people at various times, showing that you can adapt your schedule will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Visitors (IV)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand what being an Independent Visitor entails. Read through the job description carefully and reflect on how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities outlined.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly any work or volunteer roles that demonstrate your ability to build relationships with children or young people. Emphasise your reliability and commitment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting children in care. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate your dedication and suitability for the role of an Independent Visitor.
Highlight Your Availability: Clearly state your availability in your application. Since the role requires consistent support, mention your flexibility and willingness to meet with the child or young person during the specified times.
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer First
✨Show Your Passion for Supporting Young People
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children and young people in care. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to become an Independent Visitor, as this role requires a deep commitment to building meaningful relationships.
✨Demonstrate Reliability and Consistency
Since the role involves being a consistent adult in a child's life, highlight your reliability in previous roles or commitments. Discuss how you plan to maintain regular contact and support for the young person over time.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully navigated difficult circumstances, especially in relation to supporting others.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the training and support provided by the organisation. This shows your eagerness to learn and ensures you understand the expectations and resources available to you as an Independent Visitor.
