Volunteer Support Worker

We are a local charity based in Redhill providing practical solutions and emotional support to the homeless, vulnerable, and isolated of East Surrey

Volunteer mentors will work with our staff to provide tailored support to individual guests. You will be buddied up with one particular guest or house resident and guide them through their specific challenges. Time commitment 2 hours per fortnight and appointment will be subject to a successful DBS check and signing a confidentiality agreement.

You will be working closely with our Support & Recovery Worker and Project Co-ordinator to prioritise the needs of the individual and support you in working with the person. Contact with the individual will be restricted to Drop-In or via a member of staff to maintain an appropriate boundary and your privacy.

You will be given the opportunity to attend regular peer support sessions with staff and fellow mentors.

The role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and lone-working practices will be adhered to.

What skills do I need?

• Experience working in a support worker role, either voluntary or paid.
• Ability to work one-to-one with a vulnerable person while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Ability to listen without taking judgement of their situation.
• Have knowledge and appreciation of the challenges experienced by vulnerable adults eg poor mental health, unemployment, inadequate housing.
• Lived experience is useful, however you need to be fully recovered from your experience before volunteering in this role.
• Previous experience in any of the following would be an advantage, but not essential: work coaching, budgeting, CV writing, counselling, knowledge of benefits or the housing system, challenges surrounding addiction.