We support a man in his 60s who would like a volunteer visitor to pop in for a chat. He likes watching TV and is up to date on the latest news. He likes nice cars, birdwatching and a having a chat . He can be quite reserved and will need time and your patience for him to get to know you. If you are someone with experience of supporting people with autism this could be a good role for you. Visits will be in his home but with time you might be able to go out for walks to the pub or even a trip to the cinema. There are always support staff around if you have any questions.
We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.
This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you. The person you visit might choose to take part in simple activities or watch you doing the activities. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.
In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:
- Sitting and having a chat
- Checking in on their well- being
- A craft activity at home
- Reading a book/magazine together
As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:
- Friendly and approachable
- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
- Reliable and patient
- Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.
If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us: [email protected]
Apply here: https://volunteering.mencap.org.uk/opportunities/91139-mencap-volunteer-visitor-mencap-volunteer-visitor-cuppa-and-a-chat-edenbridge-kent-2025-06-12