Telephone Befriender
Organisation role · 0–1 hrs/Week · Starting from 1 Dec
From home
Advice & MentoringBefriendingSocial contactSupport workAssistanceOtherAccompanying
People with disabilitiesOlder peopleCommunity & family
I want to build my skills for workReConnect Gloucestershire CIC
#53648
Scan me or visit www.govolunteerglos.org/o/ReConnect-Gloucestershire-CIC/opportunities/Telephone-Befriender/53648 to join
Scan me or visit www.govolunteerglos.org/o/ReConnect-Gloucestershire-CIC/opportunities/Telephone-Befriender/53648 to join
Contact person
Paula NeedhamAsk Paula a question
Summary
A weekly (or fortnightly) telephone call to offer company & empathy to a person feeling isolated or lonely. Fully flexible and training will be given.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.
As a Telephone Befriender, you will do the following:
- Schedule a weekly (or fortnightly) telephone or online call to a person who has been referred to our service
- Offer company, empathy, encouragement, and share experiences.
- Encourage them to achieve personal goals, such as joining a local club or visiting the church or library
- share life experiences
- report back to ReConnect to confirm that a call was made and when.
This role might be perfect for you, if you are:
- also affected by a long term condition or know someone who is (not essential)
- 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.
- over 18 years old
- living within Gloucestershire.
- reliable and attentive
As a volunteer, you will benefit from:
- an induction and on-going training, covering safeguarding, health & safety.
- regular ongoing support from a staff member.
- connection to your local community and support/social groups.
- being a valued member of an incredible and friendly team.
- skills and knowledge to transfer to other areas of your life
- out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.
- DBS clearance (funded by us)
Location & time commitment:
- most volunteer commit to 1 hour per week to provide consistency for the person they support.
- timing and method is flexible depending on your, and our befriendee’s, needs.
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 supportAbout ReConnect Gloucestershire CIC
Peer befriending and support groups for people affected by Stroke, Aphasia and other long term health conditions, and their carers across Gloucestershire.