Age UK Islington
Age UK Islington is a charity which uses innovative techniques to provide support to Islington residents over the age of 16, enabling them to use self-help approaches to manage their own health and wellbeing. We focus on prevention: identifying those in need facilitating support before situations escalate. This, in turn, reduces over reliance on or inappropriate use of public funded services -…
Description
Purpose of the role
To offer emotional support and companionship to those experiencing social isolation and loneliness.
The aim of these relationships is to decrease social isolation and loneliness, increase quality of life and wellbeing and develop self-confidence and resilience through a positive and trusting relationship. This role is ideal for compassionate, patient and reliable individuals who enjoy making a difference in people’s lives.
Duties
What’s involved
- Regularly communicate with your befriendee through agreed methods (phone calls, in person visits or group meetings)
- Provide a friendly ear, offering conversation, empathy and encouragement
- Build a trusting and supportive relationship, helping your befriendee to feel less isolated
- Engage in any other reasonable activities that may enhance the person's quality of life – You will not be required to provide any personal care or give medical advice
- Escalating and de-escalating to other forms of support as required
- Encourage the befriendee to attend other social groups or take up new hobbies where appropriate
- Report on each interaction with your Befriendee to the Befriending Coordinator to help updating accurate client records
- Report any concerns regarding your befriendee’s wellbeing to the Befriending Coordinator
- Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times
- Participate in relevant training, complete records of the visits and conduct regular reviews with the Befriending Coordinator
Training
We will provide general and role specific training.
Time commitment
A minimum of one hour a week for a period of at least 6 months. This can be in the evenings or at weekends.
Application deadline