‘A few hours each month’ could make a difference to children in care in West Sussex
Volunteers across Sussex are being urged to come forward, to support children and young people in care, through a county council befriending scheme.
The West Sussex County Council Independent Visitor Scheme is looking for adults willing to spend a few hours each month building a friendship with a child or young person, who is looked after by the local authority.
The scheme matches trained adult volunteers with children and young people who may have little or no contact with their birth families, or who could benefit from having a trusted adult outside their professional network.
Independent Visitor team manager Kerry Wood said: “The scheme matches trained volunteer Independent Visitors with children and young people who may have little or no contact with their birth families, or who would benefit from a trusted adult outside of their professional network.”
Volunteers are matched with an individual child or young person and typically meet once a month, with activities based around their interests.
The council says this could include going for a bike ride, having a chat over a hot chocolate, watching a film or visiting a museum.
Most visits take place at weekends or during school holidays when children are free.
Ms Wood said: “A few hours each month can have a significant impact on a young person's life.
“Whether it is going for a walk, visiting a local attraction, playing sport, or simply spending time together, Independent Visitors help children feel valued, listened to, and supported.”
The scheme is open to children and young people aged between eight and 21. Young people are matched with a visitor while they are under 18, and can choose to continue the relationship until they turn 21.
Independent Visitors are volunteers rather than professional care workers.
To apply, volunteers must be at least 21 and must be able to commit to the role for a minimum of two years.
The council says applicants, or their partners, cannot work in children's social care in West Sussex or be elected members, to ensure the visitor remains independent.
Volunteers receive comprehensive training, ongoing professional support and supervision, as well as reimbursement of agreed expenses.
The recruitment process includes checks and references, training and an in-depth assessment.
The council is currently seeking volunteers across West Sussex, East Sussex and neighbouring areas, particularly where children are waiting to be matched with an Independent Visitor.
Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more about the scheme, can contact West Sussex County Council via [email protected].