Volunteer Accommodation Befriender
HopeWorks
The Volunteer Befriender will be matched with an existing client from the Accommodation team to provide weekly visits to support the client with a range of activities, primarily of a social nature. These could include; meeting for coffee, going to the shops, parks or library, etc. You may be required to visit your matched client in their own home or in a community setting. You will be required to report back progress and/or concerns to the Accommodation team.
HopeWorks (formerly known as Kings Arms Project) was started over 30 years ago, as a response to seeing people sleeping rough on the streets of Bedford. We now tackle homelessness, displacement and isolation in Bedford and beyond. We provide professional advice, innovative solutions and person-centred support, accommodation, and opportunities for growth and community. The Supported Accommodation Service offers housing, a high level of autonomy and independence, and tenancy support for a wide variety of people who have experienced homelessness and are moving toward independent living. The Volunteer Befriender will be matched with a client from the Accommodation Team and will help the team support the client with: • Planning and organising weekly visits/sessions (these could take place at the matched client's accommodation or in the community) • Accompanying the matched client to shops, library, parks, community groups etc • Research and inform the matched client of events, activities and facilities in the local area and help them access these • Working with, and reporting back to the matched client's support worker • Practising English (where applicable) • Providing advice and information on cultural awareness & life skills • Providing assistance with integration into the local area and community
Advice, Information & Support,Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring
Evaluating & Reviewing, Organising & Planning
You will need to be; empathetic, calm under pressure, reliable and trustworthy You must be able to demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to reflect on how situations may affect you and your matched client You will need to have; excellent listening, communication, and interpersonal skills Good time management, organisational and planning skills The ability to empower others and encourage their growth in self-worth, confidence, and skills An understanding for people struggling with chaotic lifestyles or mental health issues The ability to form and promote positive, supportive, non-judgemental relationships with clients which recognise their autonomy An understanding of safeguarding, boundaries and client confidentiality A commitment to HopeWorks Equality & Diversity, Health & Safety and Safeguarding policies and procedures Due to the nature of our client group. this role is subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check. Repeat checks are initiated every three years Volunteers will be required to complete online training modules; Safeguarding (level 1) and Prevent
HopeWorks is committed to investing our volunteers. We do so through supervisions, and on-going training. We will provide access to professional training courses, where applicable. Volunteer roles are unpaid, but we can reimburse some travel costs
Weekly visits for 1-2+ hours for a minimum of 6 months
N/A
56 Harpur Street, Bedford (head office). The role may involve visiting clients in their accommodation or meeting in the community
Our head office is based in Bedford town centre; 15 minutes walk from the train station, 5-10 minutes walk from the bus station. Nearest parking is Queen Street (2 hours free parking) or Allhallows
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