At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and befriend young people, helping them grow and thrive.
- Company: Volunteer Now and Be Collective, dedicated to connecting volunteers with meaningful opportunities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, make a difference, and have your expenses covered.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training provided, and a chance to develop your social CV.
- Why this job: Be a positive influence in a young person's life and help them navigate challenges.
- Qualifications: Passion for youth support and commitment to regular meetings.
Volunteer Now has partnered with Be Collective to bring a dedicated online platform for volunteering to Northern Ireland. The platform supports volunteers through the volunteering process and helps connect more people with a wider range of opportunities.
WHAT IS THE INDEPENDENT VISITOR SCHEME?
Independent Visitors is a volunteer-led befriending and support service for young people with care experience in Belfast and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts, who have infrequent or poor-quality contact with a parent or guardian, are experiencing isolation or a significant transition in their lives. Each young person is matched with a volunteer for up to one year, with the possibility of extension which will be formally reviewed with your social worker.
Tasks and responsibilities:
- To meet and befriend a young person aged up to 21 years, looked after by Health & Social Services Trusts.
- To act as a positive adult influence in the life of the young person, aiding their personal and social development through meeting them regularly and encouraging involvement in agreed shared activities.
- To keep brief records on visits with young people and return to the Project Worker.
- To feedback regularly to Senior Practitioner, giving priority to safeguarding children issues.
- Occasional attendance at group activity days.
- To operate as IV/IR volunteer in line with Niacro’s policies.
- To meet with the young person on a one-to-one basis and visit agreed public locations such as parks, sports centres and appropriate entertainment venues.
- The role will be a maximum commitment of 2-3 hours once a fortnight depending on the needs and wishes of the children/young people on the project.
- Must commit to attending training, group supervision and other scheduled required events as/when required.
- Be able to work with these young people to develop their agency and act as an advocate and positive influence in their lives.
- To attend “Looked After Children” (LAC) review meetings at various locations, if requested by the young person.
- Volunteers will be reimbursed out of pocket expenses incurred during their voluntary work.
Skills and experience gained:
- Adaptability
- Advice & Guidance
- Advocacy
- Child Welfare
- Childcare
- Children's Support
- Communication Skills
- Community Development
- Mentoring
- Problem Solving
- Resilience
- Time Management
- Youth Services
Location & Hours:
NIACRO Newcastle, UK. Flexible - hours are based on your availability and other factors.
Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newcastle in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Volunteer Now
Volunteer Now is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people in Newcastle through the Independent Visitor Scheme. With a strong commitment to volunteer support and development, the organisation fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, providing training and resources that empower volunteers to grow personally and professionally. By joining this initiative, you will not only gain valuable skills but also become part of a community dedicated to positive change and advocacy for vulnerable youth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newcastle in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before you step into that interview, do a bit of homework on NIACRO and their Independent Visitor Scheme. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect better during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for youth work! When you're talking about your experiences, highlight any relevant volunteering or mentoring roles you've had. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in young people's lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready with examples! Think of specific situations where you've demonstrated skills like communication, problem-solving, or adaptability. This will help us see how you'd handle the challenges of being a Youth Befriender.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, show your interest by asking about the training and support you'll receive as a volunteer. It shows you're committed and eager to learn!
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newcastle in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 what makes you tick. Share your experiences and why you’re passionate about supporting young people.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Youth Befriender role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the tasks and responsibilities mentioned in the job description. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible and avoid jargon. This helps us quickly see your strengths and suitability for the role.
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can check out other opportunities while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer Now
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the Youth Befriender role inside out. Familiarise yourself with the Independent Visitor Scheme and think about how your experiences align with the tasks and responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Show Your Passion for Volunteering
During the interview, express your genuine enthusiasm for working with young people and making a positive impact in their lives. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to volunteering and supporting those in need.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving and communication skills. Think of specific examples from your past where you've successfully navigated challenges or supported someone in need, especially in a mentoring or befriending context.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the role, the team, or the training provided. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you and the young people you'll be working with.
