Befriending Volunteer at Bramber Bakehouse

What does the opportunity involve doing?

Our Connections 121 Befriending Service is the next stage of support available to graduates on their
journey towards increased health & wellbeing, self-confidence and independence.

We are looking for kind, caring and committed female volunteers to provide weekly 121 distance befriending (via scheduled telephone and/ or online video calls) to matched graduates of Bramber Bakehouse, increasing opportunities for social connection.

Key Responsibilities
-Make weekly 30 minute telephone/ video calls with a matched befriendee for up to 12 sessions
-Engage in friendly, non-judgemental conversation with the befriendee
-Commit to developing a relationship of trust and support with the befriendee
-Submit a befriending contact sheet after each call ensuring any safeguarding concerns are raised
-Participate in built-in mid-way & exit reviews
-Participate in 121 volunteer support & supervision
-Uphold Bramber Bakehouse's vision, culture and values and abide by the policies and procedures provided through our volunteer training & support

-Volunteers must be female aged 18+
-Befriending takes place Monday - Thursday between 9am - 5pm
-Approx. 2 hours per week commitment

For full role description & to apply see: https://bramberbakehouse.co.uk/vacancies/

What induction, training and support is offered?

Training & Support
-All volunteers are required to attend mandatory Volunteer Induction Training prior to commencing
-Ongoing volunteer support will be offered either in person, via telephone or online
-Volunteers will receive regular email updates and access to volunteer resources
-Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses such as phone calls and travel costs (where required and with proof of receipt)

What skills or qualities are needed?

Qualities, Skills & Experience Required

Essential
Must be female aged 18+
Able to build relationships and work positively with team members and other women
Organised and reliable
Good communication skills
A good standard of English at Entry Level 3 and above
Good IT skills (for emails, completing online forms, basic online searching)
A warm and friendly attitude
An understanding, empathetic and non-judgemental approach
A clear sense of personal & professional boundaries

Desirable
Experience working with women survivors of trauma
Experience of working with ethnically and culturally diverse communities
Knowledge of local area and services

Other Requirements
Able to attend volunteer training, support & supervision sessions
Reliable access to a telephone, laptop/device and internet connection
Access to a private space free from distractions to carry out befriending calls
Willing to commit to support for 12 months
Provide details of a suitable reference
Completed a DBS standard check (carried out by Bramber Bakehouse)