Calderdale Council is looking for volunteers to support its work with children and young people in care.
Volunteers are needed for the Council’s Independent Visitors scheme. Independent Visitors are adult role models for children in care, who meet with them once a month to help with their personal and social development. This could be something as simple as taking them bowling after school or to the cinema at the weekend.
No formal qualifications are required to volunteer as an Independent Visitor, but it is necessary that you have had some experience and contact with children and young people. This is a long term volunteering opportunity, so we ask that volunteers are able to support a child or young person for at least 12 months.
Most people can be an Independent Visitor. We are seeking adults aged 21 or over who:
• Get on well with children and young people
• Have lots of patience and enthusiasm
• Can communicate easily with children and young people
Training will be provided, and will start in September this year. Volunteers need an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, and the Council will cover the cost of this.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, Cllr Megan Swift, said:
“We’re looking for patient and caring adult volunteers who can spare a few hours a month to be role models for children in care.
“An Independent Visitor is an adult volunteer who, in the short term, provides time and space for a child to try new experiences and develop different skills. In the long term an Independent Visitor can help a child increase their self-esteem and confidence, encourage social interaction and raise their aspirations.
“By dedicating a few hours each month, you will spend quality time, one to one, with a child in care and become a positive role model for them.”
If you’re interested in giving your time to help a young person, there will be information sessions held in August and full training starts in September.
To find out more about these sessions, or for more information please the website: www.calderdale.gov.uk/independent-visitor, email sarah.maligranda@calderdale.gov.uk or call the team on 01422 288251.