Befriender - Refugee & Migrant Services
HopeWorks
The Volunteer Befriender will be matched with an existing client/family from the Refugee & Migrant Services Team team to provide weekly visits to support the client with a range of activities, primarily of a social nature. These could include; practising English 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 R&MS Team
HopeWorks tackles homelessness, displacement, and isolation in Bedford and central Beds. We provide professional advice, innovative solutions and person-centred support, accommodation, and opportunities for growth and community. The Refugee & Migrant Services was developed in 2015 in response to the conflict in Syria and consequent refugee crisis. Since then, the R&MS Team has helped over 80 refugee families integrate into Bedfordshire, providing them with accommodation and holistic, trauma informed support. The following points are a guide to help with role definition. Some examples of activities that the Volunteer Befriender could do with the client(s) are: • English practice • Getting to know the clients and building rapport to help them feel safe and welcome. • Discussing family, food, hobbies, goals, and interests. • Supporting clients to understand British culture, history and geography e.g. showing them photos of different places in the UK and famous sites. • Exploring their local area e.g. going to the park or local library. • Discussing the customs and culture of the client’s home country. • Commit to regular contact with the individual client or family once a week for a minimum 6-month period. • Promptly inform the family’s Caseworker or Casework Team Manager of any developments and / or required actions. • Respect the privacy of the clients, i.e. Arrange visits in advance and as much notice as possible. • Agree with the client the types of activities they wish to undertake, ensuring that these comply with HopeWorks’ safety requirements and insurance cover. It is important to understand there are certain roles that a Volunteer Befriender must NOT undertake - these include: • Advising on; benefits, immigration, housing, health. • Counselling or any other work of a healthcare professional. • Any work that is usually done by a skilled professional, e.g. taking responsibility for someone’s financial OR legal affairs. • Pro-actively discussing faith with clients. This role is subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check. Repeat checks are initiated every three years. Volunteeers will be required to complete online training modules; Prevent and Safeguarding Everyone (Level 1)
Advice, Information & Support,Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Counselling,General & Helping
Basic IT skills - internet & email, Counselling, Organising & Planning, Reading & Writing
We are seeking volunteers with the following skills/qualities; A genuine desire to support refugees, and willingness to learn more about the issues they face Experience of working with vulnerable people in a similar capacity An understanding for and ability to maintain client confidentiality and the need to maintain professional boundaries Calm under pressure, reliable and trustworthy. Excellent listening, communication, and interpersonal skills. Good time management, organisational and planning skills. Able to empower others and encourage their growth in self-worth, confidence, and skills. Have an understanding for people struggling with mental health issues. Able to form and promote positive, supportive, non-judgemental relationships with clients which acknowledges their right to make autonomous decisions and supports the individual to achieve their goals. Be self-aware and able to reflect on how situations may affect you and the client.
HopeWorks will invest in you personally. We do so through supervisions, and on-going training. We will encourage volunteers to attend our professional training courses when possible, free of charge. Volunteer roles are unpaid, but we can reimburse volunteers for travel costs
1 session per week for a minimum 6 months
N/A
Primarily south of the county; Luton, LU1, LU2, LU3, LU4, LU5, SG18
This role is primarily South of the county. However, HopeWorks main office (where you will be required to attend an interview) is located in Bedford town centre. 5-10 minutes walk from the bus station, 15-20mins from the train station. Nearest parking is at Queen Street (2 hours free) or Allhallows
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