Volunteer Independent Visitors
Job Summary
Contract Type:
Please See Advert Text
Working Pattern:
Please see advert text
Advert Start Date:
15/01/2024
Advert End Date:
31/12/2024 23:59
Employment Location:
An approved team location.
Further Information
Children and Young People's Services Early Help, Inclusion and Vulnerable Children Youth Justice Service
Volunteer Independent Visitors CYPS/24/17
Some children and young people who are in care have little or no contact with their families. They live in a children’s home and may have moved among numerous foster carers, or could be looked after by a family member or friend. The young people see independent visitors as adult friends who support them through difficult times. You may support them to join a sports team, or take them to activities such as the cinema, cycling, bowling or dog walking. You will provide a listening ear and, in many cases, offer a long-term support to the young person.
We are looking for volunteers from all walks of life who have some free time to offer a child or young person.
Requirements: To be an independent visitor you must be over the age of 18. You must be as independent as possible from Social Services, and for this reason you must not work for Durham County Council or be an elected member of the local council.
No formal education or qualifications are needed, although some personal qualities are required. You will need to have an active interest in the welfare of children, a flexible attitude and be resilient. Above all, you need to be reliable and committed to visiting your child or young person regularly.
For more information please contact Mark den Hollander at mark.denhollander@durham.gov.uk or call 07584 345947.
The successful applicants will be required to apply for a Disclosure & Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.
Volunteers undergo a comprehensive induction training package, and an interview before an appointment is offered. Mileage/expenses are paid.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and recognise the value of difference, having a diverse talented workforce brings new ideas and new perspectives, which will facilitate growth and improvements to services. As a Disability Confident Leader, we encourage applications from disabled people and can provide support throughout the recruitment process, for more information please refer to the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion page on our website.