Independent Visitor

Who we are: 

Bolton Lads and Girls Club is now one of the largest youth clubs in the UK and at our out-of-this-world new home Infinity, we have something for everyone including sports, arts, mentoring and community outreach work as well as some extras for those who need it most.

Our independent visitor (IV) service provides community-based volunteers to support children and young people who live in the Bolton area to access local events and activities and to build on interpersonal skills. But in reality, our mission doesn’t stop in Bolton, because many of our young people equally don’t ‘stop’ in Bolton.

All local authorities have a statutory duty to provide an Independent Visitors service in accordance with The Children's Act 1989 (schedule 2, paragraph 17) and the Children and Young Persons Act (2008). We are looking for volunteers (over the age of 21) to befriend a child or young person in care or leaving care. In order to provide opportunities for them to develop a meaningful. long-term relationship.

What you can expect to be doing:

Meeting with your young person on a regular basis in the community for a couple of hours.

To be a consistent person for them to talk to and carry out activities with.

Activities can include but is not limited to, going for a walk, a milkshake, arts and crafts, baking and many more. Acting as a positive role model for young people.

To keep and submit brief notes about your contact/visits with your young person. 

What are the benefits?

You will receive a thorough induction programme and training to prepare you. 

You will receive quarterly supervisions and ongoing support from a member of the team. 

You will make a real difference to a young person’s life. 

You will have opportunities to meet with other volunteers and young people

We are looking for someone who:

Can establish a positive, stable and long-term befriending relationship with a young person and be a positive role model.

Is reliable, non-judgemental, a good listener and is able to engage with a child/young person. ·

Can promote the child or young persons developmental, social, emotional, educational, cultural and religious needs.

Can value and respect the wishes and feelings of the child or young person and where necessary represent their wishes and interests to other significant persons. ·

Can adhere to policies and procedures at all times with particular emphasis on confidentiality, health and safety, safeguarding and relevant local authority procedures.

Is 21+ years old.

Has a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.