Befrienders Leatherhead

At SeeAbility we specialise in supporting people with learning disabilities and autism, who may also have sight loss, to realise their goals each and every day. We encourage people with disabilities to challenge what they expect from life, from themselves and from wider society. Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK and has pioneered specialist support for over 220 years.

We are looking for several In Home Befrienders to provide companionship to someone we support and spend time with them doing activities they enjoy within their home. These might include reading books, listening to music, chatting over a cup of tea, etc. Many of our residents are very active and like to go out and about in the community and make new friends. We are also looking for Out and About Befrienders to play an important role in the lives of the people we support by being a reliable companion to attend activities they enjoy taking part in.

These might include going for a walk to a pub or café, attending a concert, going to the cinema, etc. The use of a car might help with this role but is not essential as you can use taxi or public transport.

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a direct impact upon the lives of others.

Befriending is a great way to keep active and meet new people. SeeAbility provides training and this can help you to develop new skills.

What skills do I need?

We don't require any formal qualifications. However some experience of working with or volunteering with people with disabilities would be of assistance. You need to be kind and friendly, empathic and patient with a good sense of humour.