A group child/young person befriender/mentor is someone who makes a commitment to children or young People facing significant challenges in their lives. This could include experiences of social isolation, disengagement from education, caring responsibilities at home and issues relating to physical and mental wellbeing.

As a volunteer you will attend a weekly group and spend around 2-3 hours engaging in activities that promote wellbeing, including but not limited to arts/crafts, baking, and employability support. Working with a Facilitator and other Volunteers you will help the Children/Young People develop confidence, resilience and communication skills, equipping them to lead a more fulfilled life.

Your volunteer relationship with Children/Young People may fluctuate depending on circumstance. You might find yourself acting as a Befriender (offering connection and companionship), a Mentor (supporting goal setting and achievement through sharing advice), and/or a Peer Mentor (considered a mix of both, using your lived experience and shared interests to support the Participant towards setting and achieving their goals).

Which COVEY Projects need these volunteers?

A number of our projects across both North and South Lanarkshire need group volunteers for children/young people. Use the buttons below to learn more about these projects.

What does COVEY expect of a Volunteer?

• To offer time to Children/Young People on a weekly basis for around 2-3 hours, engaging them in outings and activities.

• To build a trusting supportive relationship (understanding & non-judgemental) with Children/Young People

• To establish and maintain appropriate boundaries within the volunteering relationship.

• [For Drivers] To provide transport for designated young people to Group no more than 30mins from home.

• To be reliable and maintain close communication with COVEY staff where your availability changes or something disrupts your planned volunteering.

• To inform COVEY Staff promptly of any issues/concerns/safeguarding about a Child/Young Person.

• To be aware of and work within COVEY policy, procedure and best practice. Including respecting confidentiality and supporting with an anti-discriminatory approach.

• To submit expense claims monthly.

What can I expect from COVEY as a Volunteer?

• The opportunity to make a truly positive impact on a Child/Young Person’s life.

• The opportunity to learn and develop skills in working with Children/Young People.

• Foundation Training to support your role at COVEY.

• Additional training opportunities as they arise.

• A designated staff member who will ensure you feel supported, valued, and confident in your role through effective training, supervision and open communication.

• All reasonable expenses incurred in the course of your volunteering reimbursed.

• The opportunity to meet other volunteers in your local area at regular Peer Support/Celebration Events.

• To have a safe working environment & be covered by the appropriate insurance to undertake approved voluntary work in accordance with COVEY’s policies.

• A reference for your future job prospects (if required).

What are the requirements for this role?

• The ability to get to various Group locations each week (a full driver’s licence and access to a car for volunteering use is advantageous in supporting Participants accessing groups where travel is otherwise limited).

• Regular availability of around 2-3 hours a week (weekdays only)

• Active Listening skills

• Empathy for Children/Young People facing significant challenges in their lives

• Two positive character references

• PVG Disclosure check

How do I apply to volunteer with COVEY?

Use the button below to submit a short enquiry form. You can also contact COVEY’s Volunteering Team at volunteering@coveybefriending.org.uk or 07502 929076