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Outings Companion (Edinburgh)

Blind Veterans UK
VO101015

Can you spare a couple of hours a week or fortnight to brighten someone’s day?

We are committed to supporting our blind veterans no matter where they are. Our community volunteers provide crucial social interaction for our veterans who can’t reach our centres, and can often feel isolated or lonely.

Outings Volunteers are there to support our veterans to get involved in activities and trips out and about and to ensure it all runs smoothly. This could be helping on and off transport, guiding a veteran to help them orientate themselves or providing descriptions of things or events where they may not be able to see. For this role, we are looking for volunteers who aren’t afraid to get stuck in, and even learn new skills themselves. You will never be asked to do any personal care.

Our blind veteran in Edinburgh would like a volunteer to be their guide so that they can enjoy all that the city has to offer - particularly going to the cinema, trips out to local cafes and to enjoy some of Edinburgh's cultural attractions. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss this interesting volunteering opportunity in more detail.

Volunteers must be over the age of 18 and understand the importance of relationship boundaries. The role can be flexible around your other commitments, but we ask that you are reliable and punctual for our veterans. You will be fully trained and supported so you feel comfortable and confident in your volunteering.

Experience required

*Friendly & welcoming
*Great communicator
*Patient & attentive
*Willing to attend a variety of outings
*Happy to work in a team

Travel details

There is good public transport. The volunteering will start and end at the home of the blind veteran and involve travel to various locations in Edinburgh.

Travel expenses

Mileage (45p per mile)
Refreshments up to the value of £10 (to be pre-agreed with the Volunteer Coordinator)

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Training details

Volunteers will complete Induction Training before starting in the role and also face to face Sighted Guide training. There is also a requirement for volunteers to complete some online training modules - additional support is available where required.