About
Peer befriending and support groups for people affected by Stroke, Aphasia and other long term health conditions, and their carers across Gloucestershire.
Home Befriender within Cheltenham Area
Scan me or visit www.govolunteerglos.org/o/ReConnect-Gloucestershire-CIC/opportunities/Home-Befriender-within-Cheltenham-Area/68368 to join
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Summary
Can you offer face to face company & empathy to someone experiencing a long-term health condition?Detailed description
ReConnect supports people affected by Stroke, Aphasia, and other long term health conditions to connect with each other. We facilitate a peer befriending scheme and peer support groups across Gloucestershire to help to reduce social isolation and build confidence and self-esteem. These services are especially valuable for individuals who may be isolated or lonely, such as the elderly or those with limited mobility.
As a Face to Face Befriender, you will:
- meet people affected by long-term health condition online or in the community.
- offer company, empathy, encouragement, and a chance to share experiences.
- encourage people to achieve personal goals, such as joining a local club or visiting the church or library and, if appropriate, accompanying them.
- share your experiences
This role might be perfect for you, if you are:
- excellent at listening & communicating with people.
- empathetic and non-judgemental.
- willing to try new things and adapt to the Befriendee’s needs.
- happy to be autonomous with guidance from a key staff member.
- experienced in a long-term health condition (yourself, family or friend)
- over 18 years old
- without a diagnosis of a severe mental health condition
- reliable, clean and presentable.
As a volunteer, you will benefit from:
- an induction and on-going training, covering safeguarding, health & safety.
- regular ongoing support from a staff member.
- meeting new people with similar experiences of long-term conditions.
- connection to your local community and support/social groups.
- being a valued member of an incredible and friendly team.
- out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.
Location & time commitment:
- most volunteer commit to 1-2 hours per week for at least three months to provide consistency for the person they support.
- timing and location is flexible depending on your, and our befriendee’s, locality and commitments
Application Process:
- To apply, please complete an application form
- A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at an enhanced level is required for this role. ReConnect will process this with you for free.
- Once we have received your application, references and DBS check we will arrange a time for your training and match you with a person.
WHAT VOLUNTEERS NEED
😇 Disclosure and Barring Service
WHAT WE WILL PROVIDE TO VOLUNTEERS
💸 Reimbursement of costs
🤝 Extra support