At a Glance
- Tasks: Be a positive influence for young people, supporting their personal and social development.
- Company: Join a dedicated team making a real difference in the lives of young people.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and reimbursement for expenses.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop advocacy and mentoring skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable skills and experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for youth support and strong communication skills.
Location: Newtownards, BT23, UK
Hours: Flexible – hours based on your availability and other factors.
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 the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts. It supports those who have infrequent or poor‑quality contact with a parent or guardian, are experiencing isolation, or face a significant transition in their lives. Each young person is matched with a volunteer for up to one year, with the possibility of extension that will be formally reviewed with their social worker.
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Meet and befriend a young person aged up to 21 years who is looked after by Health & Social Services Trusts.
- Act as a positive adult influence, aiding their personal and social development through regular meetings and encouraging involvement in agreed shared activities.
- Keep brief records of visits with young people and report to the Project Worker.
- Provide regular feedback to the Senior Practitioner, prioritising safeguarding matters.
- Occasionally attend group activity days.
- Operate as an IV/IR volunteer in line with Niacro’s policies.
- Visit agreed public locations such as parks, sports centres and appropriate entertainment venues on a one‑to‑one basis.
- Commit to a maximum of 2‑3 hours once a fortnight, depending on the needs and wishes of the children/young people on the project.
- Attend training, group supervision and any other scheduled required events as they arise.
- Work with the young people to develop their agency and act as an advocate and positive influence in their lives.
- Attend “Looked After Children” (LAC) review meetings at various locations, if requested by the young person.
- Volunteers will be reimbursed for 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
Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newtownards employer: Volunteer Now
As a Youth Befriender with the Independent Visitor Scheme in Newtownards, you will be part of a compassionate and supportive community dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Our flexible hours allow you to balance your commitments while engaging in rewarding work that fosters personal growth and development for both you and the youth you support. Join us in creating positive change and enjoy the unique opportunity to advocate for vulnerable young individuals in a nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newtownards
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, and even acquaintances who might know someone in the field. A personal connection can often get your foot in the door faster than any application.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; contact organisations directly. Express your interest in volunteering or working with them, and you might uncover opportunities that aren’t advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 3
Show up! Attend local events, workshops, or community gatherings related to youth services. It’s a great way to meet people in the industry and learn more about what they’re looking for in candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for passionate individuals like you. Plus, it’s a straightforward process that gets your application directly into our hands.
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Befriender - Independent Visitor Scheme - Newtownards
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about supporting young people.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We love seeing applicants who take the time to connect their background to what we do at StudySmarter!
Show Your Commitment:Since this role involves regular meetings and a commitment to the young people, it’s important to express your dedication in your application. Let us know why you’re excited about making a difference in their lives!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer Now
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Youth Befriender. Familiarise yourself with the Independent Visitor Scheme and think about how your experiences align with the tasks, like supporting young people and attending meetings.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express why you want to be a positive influence in a young person's life. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to youth support and advocacy.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can best contribute to the team and the young people you'll be working with.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Be ready to discuss your skills in communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how these skills will help you succeed as a Youth Befriender.
