supporting, developing and representing community groups, voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteering


Volunteering Opportunity: VO47168

  • Befriending Volunteer
    with Families First St Andrews.

    Created/last updated: 15/10/2024


    About this opportunity:Volunteers can become one-to-one befrienders for 2 hour sessions on a weekly or fortnightly basis
     •  Befrienders support children and young people; engaging with them in activities such as baking, swimming, arts and crafts, games or walks along the beach, depending on the interests of the child
     •  Befriending generally takes place between 3
     • 30 and 6 pm on weekdays, after school
     •  Our befriending service places value on the individual child and gives them the opportunity to form positive relationships and build up self-esteem
     •  Parents have witnessed the benefits to their children
     •  One parent commented that - 'this service is second to none
     •  It has opened up so many opportunities for my son and has made a huge difference to him'
     • 
    Takes place:
    morningsafternoonsevenings
    Mondays
    Tuesdays
    Wednesdays
    Thursdays
    Fridays
    Saturdays
    Sundays
    Minimum age:18
    Maximum age:no upper age limit has been specified
    Training provided:Mandatory training includes one day of training and one induction evening. The All-Day training includes modules such as Child and Adult Protection and Managing Behaviour, and the induction evening introduces relevant policies and procedures, such as Health and Safety. Volunteers will have a supervisor available during sessions to provide support, answer any queries and conduct briefs and debriefs before and after sessions. All volunteers meet with the Volunteer Coordinator for formal supervision, and this is their regular contact. Regular training opportunities from external agencies are also advertised to all volunteers.
    Out of pocket expenses paid?
    Yes - If you take public transport to go to their centre to undertake your volunteering role, fares are reimbursed. Mileage is reimbursed at 45p per mile.

    Experience required:Volunteers need to have very good listening skills and be able to follow a child's lead. However, no experience is necessary, as training is provided.

    Restrictions on who can volunteer
    No restrictions were specified.

    Application process:Application Form; Induction/Training; Informal Chat; PVG membership required; References

    Taster available?No, not for this opportunity.

    Travel DetailsBefriending services operates out of Families First premises, Rose Lane, 132 South Street, St Andrews. Children are transported to and from the Centre. Befrienders make their own way to the Centre.

    Saltire AwardThis opportunity is compatible with the Saltire Awards for volunteers aged 12-25.