Volunteers come from all walks of life and age groups. They are people who like talking to others and are also able to listen. They are willing to share their time and experience. Volunteers receive appropriate training, ongoing support, out of pocket expenses and opportunities to meet with other volunteers.

 
  

Not everyone has a family or friend support network that they can rely on for guidance and advice to help them through difficult times. Volunteers can help to fill this gap by offering their free time and providing support.

Befriending

Befriending is a one-to-one, non-judgemental relationship where you can volunteer your time to support and encourage someone. Many people will seek the support of a befriender at a time of change in their life. For example, illness, loneliness or isolation. Many volunteers will provide assistance over a long time-scale helping to build trust and a relationship.

Boomerang are always seeking volunteers who can offer a listening ear and a kind word or two for the befriending service.

Volunteers would be good listeners and have an hour or two per week, on a regular basis, to spare to someone within the local community.

An interest in older people would help and this may help someone who is looking to do other voluntary work or paid work to gain some experience.

Anyone interested will need to provide references and undergo a police check to ensure suitability.

What you can gain from volunteering

As a volunteer you will be giving your time to help charities and community groups improve lives, but volunteering can provide you with many benefits including:

  • The chance to have fun doing something you have never tried before.
  • Increased confidence.
  • A sense of setisfaction and achievement.
  • The opportunity to make new friends and contacts with diverse backgrounds and experience.
  • Increased job and career prospects and new skills - over 70% of employers would hire a candidate with volunteering experience over someone who has never volunteered.