Our Befriending service provide empathetic, non-judgemental support to those whom have a loved one in prison or who have been affected by the criminal justice system. Contact with a befriendee takes place over the phone at a time mutually convenient with both the befriender and befriendee.
Purpose of this role
To provide 1-1 telephone based befriending support to someone who has been affected by imprisonment, providing emotional support and assisting with additional queries where required by carrying out research and signposting where required.
Time commitment & location
The role can be carried out from any location where there is a good phone signal, however this should be a location where there is a degree of privacy and minimal disruption in order for an effective service to be provided.
We ask volunteers to commit to a minimum of 1 hour every week, for a minimum of 6 months.
What you will be doing
- Providing support to the families of individuals imprisoned, on trial or in the process of being sentenced
- Research and provide information concerning the judicial, prison and state benefit systems to support the befriendee
- Research and signpost to other local agencies relevant to the needs of the befriendee
- Offer support in identifying and achieving goals and aspirations
- Act as an advocate for the befriendee in their dealings with official bodies and support them in becoming a more effective self-advocate
- Report to the Service Manager on the progress of the befriending relationship – a laptop/computer will be required to complete case reports
The type of person we are looking for
Experience
Skills / Abilities
Attitudes
Experience of working with members of the public / customer service experience
Previous experience of supporting service users would be desirable.
Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to respect confidentiality
Ability to work alone or in a team
Listening skills
Good IT skills
Non-judgemental, empathetic attitude towards prisoners and their families
Honesty and reliability
Warm and friendly approach to working with people
Be able to treat all staff, prisoners and their families with respect, dignity and courtesy
What we offer
Training
Training for this role includes Safeguarding and Professional Boundaries, and we will be providing online (zoom) role related training (approx. 2.5 hours). Additional in-house and e-learning training will be available also.
Expenses
Training for this role includes Safeguarding and Professional Boundaries, and we will be providing online (zoom) role related training (approx. 2.5 hours). Additional in-house and e-learning training will be available also.
Checks
This role will be subject to:
- 5 years of employment history or other activities (e.g., travelling or studying)
- Enhanced DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service)
Please be aware that these necessary checks need to be completed before you can start and can take several weeks to process
Support and Supervision
We will provide a full induction and regular supervision to support you in the role.
Benefits to you
- You’ll be able to reduce the risk and stress placed upon a family affected by imprisonment through the support you will provide
- Gain knowledge about the criminal justice system and processes
- Gain practical skills and experience
- Develop skills and enhance your CV for further volunteering employment opportunities
- Join a great, welcoming and helpful team of volunteers
To apply, see here