Peer Buddy Volunteer - Staffordshire

Older People Taking Control

Do you have personal experience or knowledge of supporting people with sight loss? Can you spare a few hours a week to provide short term support and advice to blind and partially sighted people?

We are looking for friendly and caring volunteers who can help older people manage the challenges of everyday activities by sharing experiences and providing advice on services that can help them.

This role requires an enhanced DBS check

What will I be doing?

• Providing a friendly voice and face

• Accompanying a person with sight loss as their sighted guide on an agreed activity outside the home, such as a shopping trip, public transport or attending a local event
• Supporting your customer to gain confidence in completing activities themselves,
• Working as part of a wider team of support volunteers

What skills and qualities can I bring to this role?

• Understanding the importance of independence for people with sight loss

• Enthusiasm for supporting people with sight loss
• Willingness to be trained to act as a sighted guide
• Excellent listening skills and a clear speaker
• Ability to respond with empathy and to relate to a wide cross section of people
• A positive and friendly disposition

When will I be needed?

This role is on an as-and-when basis. Buddy sessions will be agreed with the project coordinator to suit you and the person you are buddying.

Where will I be volunteering?

Out and about in venues across Staffordshire

What will I gain from the role?

• Gain satisfaction through helping people with sight loss and increase their independence

• Meet new people
• Gain experience of sighted guiding

What support will I be given?

Induction, including how to act as a sighted guide
Understanding Sight Loss pack
Expenses out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed including any expenses to attend training
Supervision and support from Project coordinator

How do I apply?

To apply for this role, please complete and return the Application form (Word 79KB) to volunteering@rnib.org.uk.

If you would like the application form in a different format (such as standard print, large print, braille or audio) or if you have any general enquiries, please contact the Volunteering Team on: 0845 603 0575 or 01733 375 450 or email volunteering@rnib.org.uk

• East Midlands and East Anglia
• London and South East
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• West Midlands
• Yorkshire and Humber

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• England
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