Hours:- Around 1 hour per week

Location: - by mutual agreement

​

​

​

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

​

As a volunteer befriender you will provide companionship to a person with a long term mental health problem who may have a variety of health conditions. The befriending relationship provides the client with additional social support by developing an affirming relationship supporting the client to feel less isolated and more connected to the community. Befriending complements medical, social and domestic support but does not replace it. Befriending is not therapy, befrienders do not provide personal care but offer regular contact and a link to the wider community.

​

​

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

​

Activities will vary as they are tailor-made for each individual person (client) but may include:

 

• Visiting clients at home on a pre-arranged day, time and duration.

 

• Providing companionship by listening, talking, reading or sharing activities.

 

• Offering support whilst respecting a person’s independence and dignity

 

• Facilitating opportunities for engagement in social activities within the community

 

• Where appropriate working with the client’s family and carer, communicating with them when necessary.

 

• Assisting where appropriate with trips to garden centre, library etc.

 

• Maintaining accurate notes and records of your visit or communication ie telephone calls with client. Family/carer.

 

• Work with Outreach Worker to formulate a structured goal focussed programme for the client.

 

• Attending supervision, training, team meetings and any induction

​

​

 

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS:

​

> Excellent Communication skills

> Excellent listening skills

> Good literacy skills

> A genuine interest in the well-being of isolated people with mental/physical health problems

> Patient, adaptability, flexibility and a willingness to help others

> Reliable, honest, and able to commit to regular ongoing visits

> A commitment to working in a manner which safeguards befriender and client

> A willingness to learn about any condition with affects your client.

> Able to work on your own while remaining part of a team

> Able to monitor and maintain your own well-being whilst supporting your client

> A commitment to accessing regular support from supervisor and Outreach Worker

> A commitment to undertake any necessary training

> An ability to work within the policies and guidelines of Neshomo

​

​

​

HOW DO WE SUPPORT YOU?

​

> You will be allocated to a same gender Outreach Worker who will be available to answer queries and provide support to you.

> You will be allocated to a same gender Supervisor who will be support you as an individual

> You will be able to network with other Befrienders for support and guidance.

 

 

 

BENEFITS TO THE BEFRIENDER:

​

> Experience the satisfaction and fulfilment that is derived from making a positive contribution to the well-being of someone with an enduring mental health condition.

> Getting to know fellow befrienders and being part of a team that makes a difference to lives of others.

> Access to training and ongoing support

​

To become a befriender CLICK HERE

​

If you would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer befriender please contact us.