Volunteer Befriender at MHA Communities East Surrey

At MHA Communities East Surrey we support older people to live independently in their own homes and communities. We offer a variety of social activities and services for people aged 55 and over. We currently need Befrienders in Reigate, Horley, Banstead, Redhill and surrounding areas.

Some of our MHA community members are socially isolated and feeling lonely. As a Befriender you’ll be matched with a member and visit them regularly in their own home to bring friendship, company, and a chance to chat. You may also offer practical support such as; reading a newspaper or their favourite book or accompany the member shopping or to a recreational activity.

Benefits for you:

• Help improve the quality of life for older people
• Help reduce loneliness and isolation
• Support your community
• Keep socially active
• Be part of a friendly team

Skills and qualities are needed:

• Good communication and people skills
• Enthusiasm
• Patience, empathy and understanding of the needs of older people
• Reliable and punctual
• Clear sense of personal boundaries and maintain confidentiality
• A willingness to engage with training and development
• A good understanding of your personal strengths and limitations

Times and Commitment:

• Days and times are flexible and are based on your availability and the needs of the member.
• Each visit last around 1-2 hours
• We ask you to be able to commit on a regular basis
• We ask that you make a minimum of six months commitment to this role

Training, support and requirements:

• You need to be aged 18 or over
• A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and two character references are required
• We will provide you with a full induction for the role
• Training on safeguarding, health and safety and other training and updating of skills and knowledge relevant to the role as appropriate
• Ongoing support from a named contact
• Out of pocket expenses in accordance with MHA’s Expenses Policy

*Please note- we can only accept applications from volunteers who currently live in the UK