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Volunteering Opportunity Details

  • Young Carers Befriender (WEST FIFE)
    with Lead Scotland

    Volunteer Opportunity No. VO92758 - Created/last updated: 27/04/2023



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    Opportunity


    About this opportunity:Make a difference to the life of a young carer (12 - 18 years). Lead Scotland's befriending service offers young carers living in Fife some "me" time away from their caring role, allowing them to have access to more opportunities within their community . A befriender can have a positive impact on someone's life. Activities can include going for a short walk together, meeting for a coffee, finding a hobby, accompanying them to college or assisting them to make connections with their local community. Befrienders carry out a purely social role and do not undertake any personal care or domestic duties.

    "I was very lonely through the pandemic, and I looked forward to talking to my befriender each week" - Young Carer

    "Befriending has really helped Katie, it really helped build her confidence back up. " - Parent

    "Befriending is a rewarding experience where your time is invaluable. With encouragement and support a Young Carer can improve their self-esteem and confidence and re-connect with their community." - Befriending Coordinator.

    When expressing an interest in this volunteering opportunity, please provide your name, email address and a contact telephone number.

    Takes place:
    morningsafternoonsevenings
    Mondays
    Tuesdays
    Wednesdays
    Thursdays
    Fridays
    Saturdays
    Sundays
    Minimum age:18
    Maximum age:100
    Training provided:Induction training, relevant to the role of a befriender with the young carers' project, will take place before the volunteer is matched with a young carer. Other training, including Boundaries and Child Protection, will be available. This opportunity is compatible with the Saltire Awards for volunteers aged 12-25.
    Out of pocket expenses paid?
    Yes - Travel and out of pocket expenses reimbursed. Usually paid monthly but other arrangements can be made.

    Experience required:A warm and friendly personality; kindness, patience, good communication skills; good listening skills, reliability; ability to maintain confidentiality; empathy; understanding; respect for others' life choices, values, and beliefs; ability to volunteer independently with regular contact with the Befriending Coordinator. An interest in Youth Work or a background in this would be beneficial.

    Restrictions on who can volunteer
    No restrictions were specified.

    Application process:Application Form; Informal Chat; Interview; PVG membership required; References; Trial Period

    Taster available?No, not for this opportunity.

    Travel DetailsThere will be a mixture of in person meetings in the local area and online/telephone contact whilst Covid-19 restrictions are in place. You can suggest possible outing locations and your knowledge of the local area will help this.

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

    What Now?

    To enquire/register an interest in this opportunity call us (FVA) on 0800 389 6046, e-mail us, or fill out this form:

    Please tell us what age group you are in:
    Are you looking to improve your employability prospects by volunteering?    

      You can print these opportunity details.

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Other Opportunities

Here are some shortcuts to other, similar opportunities:

Lead Scotland has the following, additional volunteering opportunities:
  - Young Carers Befriender (EAST FIFE)
  - Young Carers Befriender (CENTRAL FIFE)
  - Volunteer Befriender (Adults 1-1)

Type of volunteering: Befriending / Mentoring
Opportunities which benefit Young People


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