Charity Volunteer

Charity Volunteer - Thanet area

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young people? Do you have the energy, creativity, and commitment to inspire the next generation? Can you offer a listening ear and support a young person in need? If so, we invite YOU to join our dedicated team!

Befriending

Befriending is a programme supporting young people in the care system by offering a long-term, consistent and trusted adult that they can turn to. For many young people in care, this is the only stable presence in their life and plays a vital role in building their self-esteem and confidence.

Befrienders are matched with a young person and will meet with them for a few hours each month to do activities in the community, such as bowling, watching a film, or going out for food. These visits give the young person the chance to socialise and find new activities they enjoy.

As a befriender, you will:

1. Be a stable, constant and trusted adult for a young person in care
2. Meet with a young person once a month, for at least two years
3. Provide valuable support and a listening ear
4. Have fun doing a range of activities and outings
5. Be part of a growing community of befrienders who support and encourage each other

Mentoring

At our youth group, we provide a safe, nurturing and engaging space where young people can build meaningful relationships, gain new skills, and stay away from negative influences, such as gangs and other harmful activities. Our focus is on fostering confidence, self-esteem and resilience among our young people through a diverse range of activities and programmes.

If the youth group is not for you, come join our Mentoring team! Let's make a significant difference in the lives of young people. As a mentor, you are a listening ear. You will have the opportunity to support young people on a one-to-one basis. You will talk about their mental health and personal development, their home environment, and school friends. You will spend one hour per week with each young person, either within the community or at their school, helping them navigate the challenges they face. This dedicated time provides a crucial support system, enabling young people to express their feelings and develop coping strategies to enhance their wellbeing. Our sessions take place weekly or fortnightly, with flexible session times to accommodate your availability. We are looking for volunteers who can commit to at least 6 months.

As a volunteer with us, you'll have the opportunity to:

1. Support your local community, being there for young people when there is no one else
2. Gain valuable experience working with young people and develop your leadership skills
3. Be part of a vibrant and dynamic team that is making a real difference in the community
4. Engage in enjoyable activities such as games, sports, arts, and crafts, tailored to the interests of our young participants
5. Support young people in building confidence, self-esteem and resilience
6. Participate in exciting outings and trips, both locally and further afield
7. Optionally work towards a NYA Level 2 Youth Work Qualification (subject to availability)

What We Offer

1. Reimbursement for all travel costs, and role-specific expenses
2. Comprehensive training to equip you for your role
3. A rewarding experience where you can truly make a difference in a young person's life

Who Can Apply?

1. Anyone aged 18+ who wishes to create a positive impact in a young person's life
2. Those looking to gain more experience in working with young people in various fields, such as education, social work, or counselling
3. Individuals who are patient, empathetic and non-judgmental

Ready to Start Your Journey? To apply, please send us your name, email address, and contact number via this advert. We will be in touch to begin your exciting journey with The Young Lives Foundation.

Please Note:

1. This is a voluntary role (unsalaried).
2. All roles are subject to Enhanced DBS checks and suitable references.

Together, we can change lives. We can change Young Lives!