Volunteer Children's and Young People's Independent Visitor
Commitment: 2–4 hours per month
About the Role
As a Volunteer Independent Visitor with ASIST, you will provide regular support, guidance, and friendship to a young person who is part of the care system. The young person you are matched with may live in foster care, residential care, or with their birth family, and may have experienced difficult or challenging circumstances.
You will be an independent adult who is not part of the care system and will offer a consistent, reliable presence in the young person’s life. The role focuses on building a positive and trusting relationship, offering encouragement, listening, and acting as a positive role model.
Key Responsibilities
-Meet with your matched young person regularly for approximately 2–4 hours per month, at times and locations agreed by both parties.
-Engage positively with the young person, helping them to develop skills and interests, build confidence, and work towards personal goals.
-Attend required training, supervision, and support sessions, and provide feedback on visits.
-Maintain accurate records of visits and report any concerns promptly to the Volunteer Coordinator.
-Represent ASIST positively at all times and maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
-Follow ASIST policies and procedures and comply with safeguarding and child protection legislation.
Skills and Experience
-Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships with young people.
-Empathy, patience, and a non‑judgemental approach.
-Good organisational and time‑management skills, including record‑keeping.
-A commitment to the welfare and protection of young people.
-Willingness to undertake training and ongoing supervision.
-Previous experience working with young people is desirable but not essential.
-Ability to drive and access to a car is essential; however, reasonable accommodations may be made for those unable to drive due to medical reasons.
Benefits of Volunteering
-The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
-Experience and skill development within the care and voluntary sectors.
-Full training, supervision, and ongoing support from the ASIST staff team.
-Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.
Interested?
This role offers a unique opportunity to provide stability, encouragement, and positive influence to a young person who needs additional support. If you are passionate about helping young people and can offer consistency, understanding, and commitment, we would love to hear from you.