1:1 Befriending Volunteer

Families First St Andrews
VO106251

Families First St Andrews work with children and young people who have various additional support needs, and their families. 1:1 Befriending Volunteers build supportive, consistent relationships with a child (usually 5-11 years old) which provides companionship, positive experiences and meets individual needs, by engaging in fortnightly sessions. Volunteers support the young person in managing the challenges they face in life by spending time with them to talk, listen and engage in activities together. This role includes being a positive role model for the young person and building a trusting relationship, through having fun together and engaging in the child's interests and conversations.

Experience required

Befriending Volunteers are kind, compassionate, patient, enthusiastic, reliable and friendly. They communicate well with children and adults. Befriending Volunteers are empathetic towards individuals with additional support needs or adverse childhood experiences and are willing to learn how to manage certain behaviours as needed.

Travel details

Group sessions currently happen in Rose Lane Centre, off South Street, St Andrews. On-street parking is limited.

Travel expenses

Expenses are reimbursed monthly and staff will assist with expense forms. Mileage is reimbursed at 45p per mile.

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Training details

All volunteers participate in our mandatory introductory training. This includes information about being a volunteer for Families First, Child and Adult Protection, and relevant policies and procedures, such as Health and Safety.
Staff are available to provide additional support, during, before and after sessions, as is required. All volunteers meet with the Volunteer Coordinator for 1:1 support and supervision meetings. Regular training opportunities from external agencies are advertised to all volunteers..