'Mencap Volunteer Visitor (Comforts and cuppas in Woodley)

We are looking for a patient and chatty volunteer to visit a lovely lady in Woodley, Reading. She loves soft, cuddly toys and rainmakers, and is known to enjoy a nursey rhyme or two! She is non-verbal, but understands everything you say to her, so a friendly and understanding approach is key. She would love to have you stop by for a cup of tea and a chit chat, and perhaps over time venture out for walks and shopping in the local community. 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. Watch a video about this role https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4cDUov2esI 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. 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