Mencap Volunteer Visitor - (Warm, Quiet Connection - Leytonstone, London)

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 and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We’re looking for a kind hearted volunteer befriender to visit a man in his 70s who enjoys calm, friendly company. He lives in a warm and welcoming shared home with three other people and is supported by a team of kind and helpful staff who will be on hand to guide you. Your visits will take place in his home and may start off short and simple; a friendly check in, a shared moment, a reassuring presence. As your connection develops, your time together may naturally grow. Although he is non verbal, he communicates beautifully through gestures, facial expressions, and the quiet joy he shows when someone is truly present with him. One of his favourite things is looking at pictures and videos of horses, and sharing these moments can be a wonderful way to bond. If you’re someone who enjoys gentle companionship, noticing the small things, and offering kindness simply by being there, this role could be a deeply meaningful opportunity to make a difference.

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit: • Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing • You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit. • Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

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
• 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]

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.