Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Cuppa and a Chat Companion, Edenbridge, Kent)

We support a gentleman in his 60s who would really appreciate a friendly visitor to drop by for a chat. He enjoys watching TV, keeping up with current events, and has a keen interest in nice cars and birdwatching. Conversation is something he values, though he can be quite reserved at first, so patience and a gentle approach are key as he gets to know you. Visits will take place in his home, and as trust builds, there may be opportunities to go out together, perhaps for a walk, a visit to the pub, or even a trip to the cinema. You’ll never be alone in this role, support staff are always nearby and available to answer any questions you may have.

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.

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.

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]