A one-to-one child/young person befriender/mentor is someone who makes a commitment to a child or young person 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 spend between 1-3 hours a week (the length of sessions being flexible) with a child/young Person doing activities that promote wellbeing, such as bowling, going for a walk or visiting the cinema. By engaging a child/young person in these activities, you will help them develop confidence, resilience and communication skills, equipping them to lead a more fulfilled life.

Your volunteer relationship with a child/young person 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 one-to-one 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 a Child/Young Person on a weekly basis for between 1-3 hours, engaging them in outings and activities.

• To build a trusting supportive relationship (understanding & non-judgemental) with a Child/Young Person.

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

• To be reliable/consistent 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 Volunteer 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?

• Full driving licence with access to a car for volunteering use

• Regular availability of 1-3 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