Avid gardener? Amateur chef? Dedicated crafter? Do you love true crime or sci-fi? Are you always up to date on the soaps or TV shows? Do you follow sports? Are you looking for a way to give back and connect with new people?

Whatever your interests you could be a telefriender.

We are looking for volunteers to make weekly calls to members of our community for 12 weeks. The role involves making friendly conversation based on shared interests, lending a supportive ear and signposting to services as required.

WECIL's Check in and Chat service supports disabled adults or those with long term health conditions who are feeling isolated and would like someone to talk to.

The service was originally set up in in October 2020 in response to the Covid-19 crisis due to its success we secured an additional 2 years of funding, enabling befriending to become a core WECIL service.

What will I be doing?

• Making weekly telephone calls to two or more member of the WECIL community, for 12 weeks per person.
• Treating what you hear as confidential and sensitive.
• Reporting any concerns or worries to your supervisor.
• Signposting to a wide range of community and statutory services for disabled people (with support).
• Recording information on a log and other monitoring forms.
• Reading and following WECIL policies and procedures, including GDPR, Safeguarding and Disability Equality.
• Attending training sessions and volunteer meetings as appropriate.
• Representing WECIL to the wider community.

We are looking for a volunteers who have: 

• Enthusiasm and ability to attend a 2-3 hour online training session prior to starting the role. 
• Availability and commitment to volunteer for a minimum of 2 hours (2 calls) a week for 6 months+.
• Good telephone communication and listening skills. 
• A non-judgemental and respectful manner.
• An understanding of and/or a willingness to learn about GDPR and the Social Model of Disability and how they apply to this role.

We will provide you with:

• Bespoke training before you start your role
• Opportunities to attend additional training throughout your time at WECIL
• Regular supervision and the chance to connect with other volunteers
• The opportunity to give back to your community
• Role recognition
• References for future employment or volunteer applications

Please apply via this link - https://forms.office.com/r/HRdGdJ9eUJ

After applying:

* The Befriending Project Worker will contact the applicant to conduct an informal interview and find out more about them. This information will then be used to match volunteers to telefriendees. 

* Please note this position is not subject to a DBS application, but requires the volunteer to provide 2 references and a form of ID.

* If you require further support, have any questions or want to request an alternative application format please email: checkin@wecil.co.uk