Young Person's Activity Buddy/Befriender

• Aberlour Scotland's Children's Charity

• VO105680

Dundee's Outreach service help whole families, offering personalised support for both children and their parents. We offer support to families with children in Dundee experiencing a range of challenges, including poverty, isolation, mental health and wellbeing, self-esteem and anxiety.
We are looking for befrienders to befriend a child or young person.  As a volunteer befriender you would be matched with a child, who you would spend regular time with on a 1:1 basis, building a trusting relationship and having fun. You would take part in activities that a child enjoys such as playing football/going to the park or to introduce them to new activities or hobbies that they may not have the opportunity to take part in normally.
At this time, because of feedback from the young people we support, we are particularly keen to hear from potential male volunteers; and whilst we are happy to accept applications from males and females of all ages we are keen to hear from potential volunteers in their 20s or 30s as our young people are often looking to share activities and experiences with people within this age range. It may also be useful, though not essential, if a potential volunteer has access to a car as some travel may be involved.
Volunteers are a very important in helping to support children and young people deal with issues such as social isolation, confidence building and in promoting positive social development.  
What will I be doing? 
·       Making a difference in a child or young person’s life
·       Spending regular time with a child or young person
·       Supporting them when difficulties arise
·       Sharing an activity/hobby
·       Attending activities
·       Completing a diary after each visit
·       Attending regular support sessions
What will I gain from the role? 
·       Befriending training
·       Make new friends and meet new people
·       Get out and about
·       Be young again
·       Have FUN!
·       Attend social events.

Experience required

·       A genuine interest in the well-being of children and young people
·       A few hours to spare each week
·       Reliability and discretion
·       Friendly and approachable
·       Non-judgemental attitude
·       Good communication and listening skills
·       Responsible and dependable 
What qualities do I need? 
·       To have a non-judgemental attitude and approach to working with children and young people
·       To be empathetic
·       To be able to treat all information in a confidential manner
·       Be friendly, helpful and understanding
·       Be enthusiastic, flexible, committed and patient. 

Travel details

Car would be useful but not essential

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