Volunteering
Independent Visitor
Do you have a big heart and a bit of free time? We're on the lookout for volunteers to make a difference in the lives of children and care experienced young people in Sunderland.
Together for Children supports over 380 children and young people aged up to 18 years old. Some of them need a friendly face and a fun companion outside of school and care. That's where the role of an Independent Visitor comes in.
What does being an Independent Visitor involve?
- Be a mentor and friend to a young person.
- Meet up at least once a month for fun activities like movies, museum trips, bike rides, hot chocolate chats, or a game of football.
- Help them discover new interests, learn skills, and boost their confidence.
- You are provided a small budget to spend during time spent with a young person.
- You will undertake introductory training and will need a DBS check before starting working with a young person.
- You will also be asked to provide feedback after your time together.
We encourage you to commit to at least two years to spending time with your young person. This commitment offers them the stability and opportunity to build the relationships they need to thrive.
Why you could be a great Independent Visitor
We believe that everyone has something unique to offer. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, with diverse experiences and backgrounds, just as interesting and varied as the young people we support. We know that everyone clicks differently, so we'll match you with someone we think you'll get along with.
We have a waiting list of children in Sunderland eager to meet someone just like you. Your life experiences and interests could be the perfect match for a young person looking for a mentor and friend.
What support is available?
As an Independent Visitor for Together for Children you would undertake free training on things that might come your way as an Independent Visitor.
You will also have a contact within our volunteering team should you have any questions or concerns.
What do our young people have to say about their Independent Visitor?
"What it will mean to me is that I have someone to talk to and it will make me go out more and explore more too and meet new people and get to know them".
"My IV is good to talk to, he listens to me and plans things I like to do. I feel safe and happy with my IV".
What do our Independent Visitor think of the programme?
"My young person will talk to me more openly than staff in his home and social workers. He doesn't see me as a member of staff like everyone else which he really likes".
"I asked my young person what she felt she gained from my involvement with her and she said that she would not go out so much and experience different things if she did not have me doing what I do".
Find out more about becoming and Independent Visitor
If you'd like to find out more about becoming an Independent Visitor, please email volunteering@togetherforchildren.org.uk
