Regular Help?

Volunteers are paired with a BS3 resident who is experiencing isolation and loneliness.

You will be paired with someone who shares the same hobbies and interests and will talk weekly over the phone or face-to-face.

The face-to-face meetings could include going for a walk or going to a local café or park.

What's involved?

• Calling or meeting with a BS3 resident on an agreed regular basis for a friendly and supportive chat.
• Providing emotional support, including non-judgmental active listening.
• Keeping us up to date on how your volunteering is going and referring any queries and concerns back to your Volunteer Supervisor.
• Attending the Check-in & Chat and safeguarding training, as well as undergoing a DBS check by BS3 Community.
• Adhering to our safeguarding and Covid-19 policies and boundaries learnt in training sessions to keep you and the resident safe.
• Working with the supervisor to signpost services and groups that might be of benefit.

What skills and qualities will you need?

• Good listening and communication skills.
• Empathy / understanding towards others and an interest in what others have to say.
• A non-judgmental and positive approach and the desire to motivate and encourage others.
• An ability to work independently but also stay within the role’s boundaries – recognising what should and shouldn’t be done and when to seek advice or report concerns.
• A good understanding of confidentiality.
• Reliability.
• Confidence speaking on the telephone.
• You will be required to undertake a DBS check (paid for by BS3 Community).

What are the commitments?

• A half-hour meeting or phone call once a week for 8 weeks. A volunteer can be paired with 2 people max.
• Check in phone calls/emails with your supervisor every few weeks.

Why get involved?

• An opportunity to brighten up the lives of people who have little contact with others.
• You will be making a real contribution to reducing isolation and loneliness in our community.
• We offer full training, ongoing support, DBS check and references on request.

How to get involved?

Please accept the challenge.

For more information please email: carmel.ferguson@bs3community.org.uk or call 0117 9231039.

Many thanks

BS3 Community