Befriender

• SupportED Scotland (Linda Tremble Foundation)

• VO100055

Our Befriending service aims to support individuals towards recovery through weekly phone calls or meet ups with a trained volunteer. The service is for both individuals affected by an eating disorder, and those who care for them.

Befrienders offer one to one support, signposting and a safe space to talk. The sessions take place on a weekly basis for an initial period of eight weeks, at which point the situation is assessed. The support may then continue for up to a year.

Experience required

Volunteers need to be good listeners and able of offer support and encouragement in a non-judgemental manner. A good knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with mental health issues, particularly eating disorders would be advantageous. We welcome applicants with lived experience of an eating disorder.

We are specifically looking for your ability to be:
● Open and honest – people others can relate to
● Articulate, with a good telephone manner and able to communicate in a warm and welcoming way
● Able to show evidence of genuine trust and hope for the future
● Good listeners and encourage people to share; it is more important to hear their story than to share your own
● Patience – don’t hurry people onto the next stage of their journey
● Committed to attending regular training when required

Travel details

Remotely (over the phone or video chat) or at a mutually beneficial location

Travel expenses

Any reasonable costs incurred during in-person support (e.g. travel) would be reimbursed in line with SupportED’s expense policy.

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