Independent Visitor
Coram Voice
, WC1N 1AZ
Job Description
The charity Coram Voice is calling for volunteers in Norfolk to come forward this year to befriend and support children in care across the county.
Coram Voice, a charity that supports children and young people in and around the care system, works in partnership with Norfolk County Council to provide an ‘Independent Visitor’ service for young people aged 5 to 18+ in the care of the local authority. Independent Visitors are volunteers who provide a reliable and consistent point of contact for a child who is isolated and has limited or no family contact.
The volunteers meet with a young person, at least once a month for a couple of hours, undertaking activities and outings to help them build their confidence and self-esteem. They’ll take part in fun activities such as bowling, the cinema or sports, depending on the age and interests of the young person. Volunteers are also there to listen to any issues or concerns the young person wants to discuss.
Through the Independent Visitor service, volunteers enjoy the challenge and rewarding experience of building a lasting friendship with a child in care, and the children benefit greatly from a constant, fun relationship with someone independent from the care system.
Cllr Penny Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said “many young people in care can experience loneliness, and lack the trusted relationships with adults they can turn to when they need help. Becoming an Independent Visitor is great way of supporting children and young people to thrive in difficult circumstances. I’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch with Coram Voice to find out more.”
One current volunteer in the region, Polly, said: “I love volunteering because it is a genuine delight to watch my young person try new things, particularly things she was nervous to do. Over the year we’ve been matched I’ve loved getting to know her and seeing how funny, sweet and caring she is. I really look forward to spending time with her and we always have a really enjoyable visit. I know she loves them too - we both look forward to them all month!”
Another local volunteer, Andy, said: “I love volunteering because for a few hours a month it's just me and my young person. Doing fun things. Giving him the chance to express himself and experience a bit of normality. Talking, listening and learning together. Being there for him no matter what. But mostly doing fun things.”
Steph Walsingham, the Norfolk Independent Visitor Service Manager at Coram Voice, said: “Some children in care have a constant roll of changing social workers and foster carers, and for some, an Independent Visitor is the only non-paid person in their life. It’s an incredibly important and rewarding role.
“With over 1,000 children currently in care in Norfolk, we want to pull out all the stops so that more of these children are matched with a caring, reliable and fun adult befriender. If you’re thinking about making a difference this year by volunteering locally, we’d be eager to speak to you.”
Independent Visiting is a long-term, one to one commitment. Volunteers must be over 18 and will be subject to enhanced police checks. Full training and ongoing support will be given.
Salary
n/a. Out of pocket expenses will be paid for mileage and activities.
Hours
One morning/afternoon per month
How to apply
For more information about the role, please email norfolk@coramvoice.org.uk or visit www.coramvoice.org.uk and select current vacancies.