North Lincolnshire Council is asking people to #DoOneThing this Volunteers Week and make a difference to a young person’s life by becoming an Independent Visitor.
Independent Visitors are matched with young people who are in the care of the Local Authority who have little or no contact with members of their own family. They build up relationship by spending regular time together, which could be anything from taking trips to the cinema, kicking a football around, or just meeting for a coffee and chat.
As an Independent Visitor you will be different from most of the other adults they know – you will be there just for them, as a friend and mentor, and stay with them regardless of other changes in their life.
It is an immensely rewarding role, as this Independent Visitor says:
“It’s a wonderful feeling to realise how the relationship has grown and developed, when he remembers funny things that we have done together and giggles happily when recounting them, and informs me that he believes I am much better at football now than two years ago – but still lots of room for improvement!”
Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to be an Independent Visitor – no experience is needed as training is given.
References will be needed and a Disclosure and Barring check will be made.
For more information, go to the Independent Visitor Service page on our website or contact the Independent Visitors Co-ordinator on 01724 297000.
