Independent Visitor

This role is often referred to as a ‘professional friendship’. Looked after children often lack the presence of consistent, stable adults. The mentor role – which is also known as the ‘Independent Visitor’ involves the volunteer meeting with the child/young person on a consistent and regular monthly basis for a period of two years. The meetings take place in the local community and include leisure based activities such as: going for something to eat, bowling, walking in the park, playing a sport together, going to the cinema. The role is informal, relaxed and fun.

Volunteers who carry out this role have the opportunity to make a difference in a child/young person’s life. Volunteers often say that they have learnt new skills through their communication with the young person. It can be a good career development opportunity for those wanting to gain experience of working with children/young people, a really interesting way to spend some of your retirement time or if you simply want to make an important contribution to your local community.

NYAS works under contract to the local authority who refer children/young people to the service. We have young people being referred on an ongoing basis and some (particularly young males) waiting for match. We are really keen to recruit male volunteers but females are equally encouraged to apply. You will always have a choice in who you are matched with and will receive training to prepare you for the role. The role is special and young people are endlessly impressed by people who choose to volunteer with them.

Skills

Whilst NYAS does not require volunteers to have the same levels of formal qualifications as salaried staff, volunteers must not be a local councillor or an employee of the children’s services of the local authority for whom NYAS provides volunteer services.

Experience & Knowledge:

 Good measure of life skills

 An understanding of children and young people in our society

 An understanding of the impact of discrimination on individuals

Skills and Abilities

 Good communication particularly with children and young people

 Ability to promote the safety and welfare of children and young people

 Ability to recognise and understand the values and behaviours of children and young people

 Ability to receive and accept support and guidance

 Ability to understand the circumstances of children looked after (in care) and children ‘in need’

Personal Qualities

 Sensitivity to the needs and wishes of the child (or young person)

 A commitment to children’s rights and welfare

 Non judgemental approach

 Reliability and punctuality

 Sense of humour

 A good level of physical and emotional health, so that you are able to meet the needs of the child appropriately