Volunteer Befriender for young person

Supporting people in Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Moodiesburn.

Quarriers Cumbernauld Project provides a range of support services for adults and children with learning or physical Disabilities and acquired brain injuries in the North Lanarkshire area. Predominately the Cumbernauld, Kilsyth, Moodiesburn and Chryston areas.

R is a young lady, 17 years old with a learning disability who is leaving school and looking to expand her social network and participate in community activities. A volunteer befriender will engage, support and build up a friendship with R in the activities she enjoys doing, possibly in her home and local community.

This will give R the opportunity to meet new people. A chance for R to form other supports in her local community. For R to be able to participate in the activities she has an interest in.

Accompany and provide support to R in the activities she enjoys (gym, swimming, cinema, musicals, baking). Help her explore new opportunities (zumba, working with animals, horse riding, horticulture, IT, gym, etc).

Outgoing, patient, empathy skills, good sense of humour, friendly, caring, good manners, energetic, active and enthusiastic person required.

Ideally volunteering once or twice a week, for between 2 and 4 hours depending on what R would like to do. Times negotiable but generally at the weekend or after 6pm.

Would be beneficial (for R) if person who volunteers can drive. R has her own vehicle which volunteer and staff could access.

Volunteer (if suited) would have to commit to volunteering for a 12 month period.

Support provided from existing staff, team leader and manager for volunteer. Expectation that volunteer would work alongside Quarriers staff or R,s family for a period of time to get to know R. Volunteer induction and review procedures followed.

Possible relevant mandatory course to be completed.

Induction to Quarriers

Emergency First Aid

Fire safety Awareness

Basic food Hygiene (work book)

Safer Handling

Administration of Medication

SCIP

Epilepsy and Rescue medication

Other training courses may be available.

Volunteers need to be able to participate in activities that R may choose to do such as swimming, Zumba, gym, etc.

Female applicants only.

Non smokers only.

Drivers preferred.

Process is through volunteer application form, references and disclosure.  Meet with R and her family for a chat as well as Quarriers Project Manager and Team Leader.

Expenses provided either through Quarriers or R. Can be discussed at initial meeting.