Independent Visitor

at Bury Childrens Rights

Role Description

An Independent Visitor is a volunteer who provides support and companionship to children in care. Here are some key aspects of their role:

Befriending and Mentoring: Independent Visitors build a trusting relationship with the child, offering friendship and guidance. They spend time together doing activities the child enjoys, such as going to the cinema or for a walk.

Emotional Support: They listen to the child’s concerns, whether it's something serious or just a funny story. This helps the child feel heard and valued.

Stability and Consistency: For children who have experienced instability, an Independent Visitor can be a reliable and consistent presence in their lives.

Encouraging Interests: They support the child’s hobbies and interests, and help them try out new activities.

Advocacy: Independent Visitors can also help children navigate difficult or confusing times, providing advice and support when needed.

Overall, the role of an Independent Visitor is to be a positive, stable influence in the life of a child in care, helping them to thrive and feel supported.

Type of Activity: Ongoing, Suitable for individuals to apply, In person volunteering

Suitability: Suitable for 18 year olds and over

Time commitment

A few hours once a fortnight

Availability: Monday Morning, Monday Afternoon, Monday Evening, Tuesday Morning, Tuesday Afternoon, Tuesday Evening, Wednesday Morning, Wednesday Afternoon, Wednesday Evening, Thursday Morning, Thursday Afternoon, Thursday Evening, Friday Morning, Friday Afternoon, Friday Evening, Saturday Morning, Saturday Afternoon, Saturday Evening, Sunday Morning, Sunday Afternoon, Sunday Evening, Ad-Hoc
Is this role available at multiple locations? Yes
Role Location: Central Bury
Ward: Boroughwide

Benefit to the volunteer

Volunteering as an Independent Visitor offers numerous benefits, both for the volunteer and the child in care. Here are some key advantages:

Personal Fulfillment: Knowing that you are making a positive impact on a young person's life can be incredibly rewarding. Many volunteers find a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction in their role.

Building Relationships: You get to form a meaningful, long-term relationship with a child who may have experienced instability. This bond can be enriching and fulfilling for both you and the child.

Skill Development: Volunteering helps you develop valuable skills such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving. These skills can be beneficial in both personal and professional contexts.

Community Connection: Being an Independent Visitor allows you to connect with your community and contribute to its well-being. It fosters a sense of belonging and engagement.

Emotional Growth: The experience can enhance your emotional intelligence and resilience as you navigate various situations and support the child through their challenges.

Positive Distraction: For the child, having an Independent Visitor provides a positive distraction from their daily struggles and offers them new experiences and opportunities.

Advocacy and Support: You can help the child develop social skills, pursue hobbies, and participate in community activities, which can be crucial for their personal and cultural development.

Overall, volunteering as an Independent Visitor is a mutually beneficial experience that can lead to personal growth, stronger community ties, and a lasting positive impact on a young person's life.

You will receive

Induction and training, Regular support supervision, Volunteer Handbook, Travel expenses, Food expenses, Volunteer policy

Inclusion Statement: At Bury Children's Rights, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We believe that diversity in all its forms—race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, and more—enriches our community and enhances our ability to innovate and grow.

We strive to create a culture where differences are celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Our policies and practices are designed to promote equity and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and all contributions are recognised.

We are dedicated to continuous learning and improvement, actively seeking out diverse perspectives and challenging ourselves to be better allies and advocates. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Volunteers are asked to complete or provide: Application form, ID Check, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, Reference(s), Informal discussion (may include an interview)
Activities: Administration, Advice, Information and Support, Art and Design, Befriending, Buddying and Mentoring, Caring, Catering, Community Hub/work, Counselling, Digital/IT support, Entertainment, Environment/Gardening, Music, Practical work and DIY, Primary School Age Work (5 to 11 year olds), Sports and Coaching, Support Work, Teaching and Training, Youth Work, Youth Work (12 to 25 year olds), Other (please specify), We are led by the young person, any experience is welcome. Activities can vary depending on their needs. Please inquire for a more detailed chat.
Skills: Admin, Arts and Crafts, Basic IT, Bookkeeping and Finance, Building and Maintenance, Cleaning and Tidying, Conservation, Counselling, Creative and Design, Evaluating & Reviewing, Gardening, Good IT Skills, Language Skills, Managing People, Maths, Negotiating, Organising and Planning, Photography, Reading and Writing, Research, Web Design, UK Driving Licence, Other (please specify), All Skills are welcome.