Children and Families Volunteers - Hampshire County Council

Description

Independent Visitor Volunteer

To be an Independent Visitor (IV) is to be a trusted adult to a child or young person in care, where it is thought that this will be in their best interests to provide opportunities for children and young people to develop meaningful, long-term relationships with adults.The IV volunteer scheme is a statutory service for children who are ‘looked after’ by the local authority. It is for those children who would benefit from having an IV in their life. This scheme is voluntary for the young person, which means that they can choose to have an IV at any time from age 8 years old. Up until they turn 21.IV’s need to be consistent and reliable, so that children can build a trusting, positive relationship with them over time. The child will have the opportunity to try new activities and spend time with their IV away from their placement.The IV will endeavour to become and remain a consistent adult in the child’s life, who does not change when placements or social workers do.IVs begin by supporting the young person fortnightly for the first 3 months, and then continue on a monthly basis.

IVs can meet with young people Monday – Sunday between 9am and 8pm.

What particular skills are needed for this role?
Good communication and listening skills; remain calm and impartial; record accurate and timely information; respect differing views and confidentiality

What activities will the volunteer perform or take part in?
Work with the Volunteer Coordinator to agree a match with a child/young person; attend an initial meeting; deliver ongoing support; submit brief records about your visits; deliver support for at least a year