Independent Visitor (CSVA)

Do you want to make a difference to a young person's life?

This role involves befriending children and young people, usually ages 10-18 years old, who do not have regular contact with a family member or who would benefit from the service. The commitment required is to visit them once a month for at least 4 hours.

This is an opportunity to take out a young person on a fun activity and give them a person who can be consistent in their lives. These children have suffered a lot of disruption and have often been let down by adults. In the role, by being in regular monthly contact with them, you could make a significant difference to their lives doing ordinary things with a smile.  Current volunteers have identified that two of the benefits that they get as a volunteer is that they have made a new friend and gained immense personal satisfaction.  

There are monthly support meetings for all volunteers. Where possible, visits are arranged as near to the volunteer's home as possible. Reimbursement of agreed expenses will be provided.

If you are not sure if this role is for you - come along to an Open Evening where you will be given an insight into what it would be like to be an Independent Visitor. Some existing Independent Visitors will be there, sharing their experiences, and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. During the course of the evening the assessment and approval process will be explained to you.

Online Open Evenings are to be held in 2024 02/05/2024 16/05/2024 from 19:00 to 20:30. The Introductory Two Day Training Course to become an Independent Visitor will be held on the 08/06/2024 and 22/06/2024 (travel expenses paid).

What skills do I need?

Must be able to commit to volunteer once a month for 2 years and it would be helpful to have have access to a car. Although a car isn’t essential, it may take longer to match you with a child or young person due to some children/young people living in rural locations with limited public transport. It could also limit the activities that you are able to do with a child.