How to become an independent visitor

The gift of time is precious. Can you help us by investing some of your time in Building Brighter Futures for children in need? We need another 50 volunteers to help us meet the growing demand for adults willing to offer support to children. Have you the time to help a young person achieve their potential by offering a few hours a month, taking an interest in their welfare and having fun?

This incredibly rewarding role involves visiting, advising and befriending a young person and taking a long term interest in their well-being. We expect volunteers to share in regular social activities, assist with problems and concerns and become a positive adult role model.
The young people may be in foster homes or residential care but feel they would like to have someone special of their own. Many young people in care lack a consistent adult relationship and miss out on the experiences that this can offer. This is especially the case for young people who live a long way from their families and for unaccompanied minors.
Volunteers are independent of the care system which allows the young people to discuss a wider range of topics and share any concerns openly. Volunteers are expected to maintain contact by visiting the young person at least twice a month and having regular telephone contact. It is helpful if independent visitors have use of a car and are available on weekends.
The role of an independent visitor is statutory and included in the 1989 Children Act. This allows the visitor to have a say in the young person's care plan and accompany the young people to meetings and to speak on their behalf.
Training and on-going support are provided and all authorised expenses are reimbursed.
If you are interested in finding out more please use the form provided on this site or contact us for an informal discussion.