Volunteer Mentoring a Child – (H364)

Volunteer role but could lead to paid position –

Are you interested in giving some quality time & care to children and young people?

Do you have skills to engage with vulnerable children and Young People?

Why not Join Barking and Dagenham Children Care and Support and get involved with ‘Mentoring a Child’

Who is a mentor?

A mentor is somebody who is seen as being a positive role model. In this role, the mentor is an adult volunteer who seeks to encourage, guide and support children who would benefit from a 1:1 intervention and someone they could talk to and enjoy some fun activities.

The Purpose of mentoring a child?

The aim of ‘mentoring a child’ is to give quality time to a child. This could be achieved by going on outings or a home visit. Over a period, you will establish a friendly relationship and be somebody they could turn to for support and be a listening ear. The overall outcome is to assist in making improvements and achievements in many areas of the child’s life.

Children you will be supporting.

You will be supporting children aged 3-18 who have experienced a difficult or traumatic childhood. Some examples are growing in a family involved with drugs or alcohol misuse, domestic violence, or neglect. You may also be allocated to work with who are looked after children may also or in care of a special guardian.

Who can apply?

All volunteers are welcomed, if you are over 21 years old and are willing to make a difference in the life of a child.

Volunteers will be responsible for:

Ø  Respite to families by giving the child quality time through outings or fun activities

Ø  Giving positive advice

Ø  Giving guidance through life practical task by building on the child’s strengths and helping them to discover new skills.

Ø  Be responsible for always safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the child.

Ø  Support with transportation to an appointment

Our expectations are:

Ø  Be non-judgemental

Ø  Have a child friendly approach

Ø  Be creative, inspiring & active

Ø  Have listening skills and be patient

Ø  To be reliable and committed.

Ø  Give written reports/assessment

Ø  Have respect for different ethnic, cultural and social backgrounds.

Ø  Commit to 3 to 4 hours per week (which may include weekends) for a minimum two years.

Ø  Have access to computer (or similar device) and the internet

Mentors will learn how to:

Ø  Engage with children/young people and their families.

Ø  Become a Mentor

 

Benefits of the role:

Mentors will have the opportunity to learn and develop various skills. We will provide:

Ø  In house training depending on the service & the child/young person you will be working directly with

Ø  Mandatory training via council’s i-learning portal.

Ø   For those who are thinking of starting a career in working with children/young people and families, social care this would be an insightful experience.

Travel expenses:

Travel expenses will be reimbursed.