NYAS is a leading rights-based charity who provide advocacy and legal representation to children and vulnerable adults when important decisions are being made about them. Since 1979, we have been ...
Side by Side Volunteer
Contact person
Elizabeth Lyman
#112131
Scan me or visit www.govolherts.org.uk/o/NYAS1/opportunities/Side-by-Side-Volunteer/112131 to join
Summary
Our Side by Side care leavers programme aims to reduce feelings of isolation for care leavers, to bridge the gap between leaving care and independence.
Detailed description
Our Side by Side care leavers programme aims to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness for care leavers and to bridge the gap between leaving care and finding their own way in the world by embarking on their journey ‘side by side’ with them when they need it.
Every child taken into care and every young person who leaves it should expect the very best care alongside the support and love they need to thrive.
Sadly, far too many young care leavers are thrust into the adult world before they are ready, facing a life without the support of family and friends that so many of us take for granted.
Young people tell us they are missing the skills and trusted people they need to help them navigate this new chapter in their lives. While some lack a positive adult role model, others are struggling to access education, employment, health services and maintain financial security.
Most just need someone to talk to; someone they can trust.
The impact of care experience does not end at 18, 21 or even 25. It is a continuous lifetime experience that can have lasting effects. Young people are at risk of falling into debt, becoming mentally or physically ill, vulnerable to exploitation and discriminated against as they leave care.
What they need is a bit of extra support to help.
How can you help?
Come and join us in volunteering to support a care leaver.
You do not need any specific skills or experience, just enthusiasm and a willingness to support a care leaver with their practical and emotional needs.
We just ask that you commit to the programme for a minimum of 12 months.
You will receive all the support and training you need to make the most of your role, including:
- Support from your line manager
- Access to a range of training opportunities
- Reimbursement of all reasonable expenses
An interview and selection process including an enhanced DBS check, references and a digital risk assessment are required for this role.
Expectations
- Accepting applicants over the age of 25
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of relevant training
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
What volunteers need
😇 Disclosure and Barring Service
What we will provide to volunteers
💸 Reimbursement of costs
🤝 Extra support
About NYAS
NYAS is a leading rights-based charity who provide advocacy and legal representation to children and vulnerable adults when important decisions are being made about them. Since 1979, we have been delivering services to support and empower vulnerable children and adults.
In Hertfordshire we are looking to recruit Independent Visitors (IVs) who are adult volunteers who befriends a young person in care. Often, an IV is the only adult who is not paid to spend time with the young person, which often leads to long lasting friendships.
Activities can involve developing new skills or practising new hobbies, or outings such as bowling, cinema trips or a walk in the park.
Each volunteer is carefully matched with a child or young person in care in their local area who shares similar interests.