Volunteer Befriender

Befriending is the simple act of giving your time to someone who needs support and companionship, to be someone they know is there for them without expecting payment or a return favour. Volunteers do not replace professional carers and only provide occasional assistance with tasks such as accessing appointments, making transport arrangements, contacting the Housing Department, utilities or Community Furniture Project.WBAR has been befriending refugees and asylum seekers since 2015. All our volunteers receive an induction, training and ongoing support. Our aim is to minimise the impact of isolation, loneliness, anxiety and living in poverty for those who may be in this position, circumstances which could cause significant stress or mental health issues. The role involves:

1. listening and chatting 

2. taking part in leisure activities 

3. attending supervision sessions as required 

4. undertaking essential training 

5. observing WBAR's policies and procedures 

6. maintaining boundaries 

7. Visiting at the home of the client, at a community centre or the charity's venues as mutually agreed.

8. Sourcing information needed by the befriendee

9. Assisting the befriendee to access the help they needBefriending is the simple act of giving your time to someone who needs support and companionship, to be someone they know is there for them without expecting payment or a return favour. Volunteers do not replace professional carers and only provide occasional assistance with tasks such as accessing appointments, making transport arrangements, contacting the Housing Department, utilities or Community Furniture Project.WBAR has been befriending refugees and asylum seekers since 2015. All our volunteers receive an induction, training and ongoing support. Our aim is to minimise the impact of isolation, loneliness, anxiety and living in poverty for those who may be in this position, circumstances which could cause significant stress or mental health issues. The role involves:

1. listening and chatting

2. taking part in leisure activities

3. attending supervision sessions as required

4. undertaking essential training

5. observing WBAR's policies and procedures

6. maintaining boundaries

7. Visiting at the home of the client, at a community centre or the charity's venues as mutually agreed.

8. Sourcing information needed by the befriendee

9. Assisting the befriendee to access the help they need

About West Berkshire Action for Refugees

West Berkshire Action for Refugees (WBAR) helps refugees, both new arrivals and settled families, as well as asylum seekers, to rebuild their lives by providing English classes, social activities, one to one support and general advice. It is our aim to make people feel safe and welcome in West Berkshire and to encourage local people to welcome refugees and asylum seekers.

What skills do I need?

1. caring nature and non-judgemental 

2. respectful 

3. good listening skills 

4. reliable 

5. good communication skills 

6. able to maintain confidentiality. 

7. knowledge of issues affecting refugees and asylum seekers or willing to learn

When is this role available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Ability to commit to at least 1 or 2 hours weekly. There is a regular drop in for refugees and asylum seekers on Thursday afternoons (2.00 to 3.30) in Newbury, supported by our Case Worker and one or two volunteers when they are available. To prepare a short diary record and report to Volunteer Team Leader regularly. Attend occasional training in person, on line or self directed reading. Support available for the volunteer includes induction, training, supervision, volunteer get-togethers, reimbursement of expenses

Where does this role take place?