Volunteer Training
Over the past three weeks we have been holding bespoke training for volunteers engaged on our Befriending Programme. The programme matches a volunteer with one of our clients on a buddy system. The relationship is an extension of our various life-skills programmes where the client is encouraged to develop social skills, that for many leads to re-integration with society and promotes social inclusion.
Many of our clients have suffered with isolation for much of their lives and possibly did not benefit from good role models as they grew up. Although many live in accomodation with other people they can still feel very much alone. A volunteer befriender provides an opportunity for “me time” for a client. Our Project Work Team look after multiple residents on any given day and do not always have the opportunity to sit back and relax with the lads for a chat.
The volunteer befriending team support the project work team by providing this much needed outlet for clients. Activities can include going shopping, having a coffee, a cinema trip, a walk in the park or simply having a chat.
Pictured above are our most recent graduates of our Befriending Certificate Course in March 2015.
If you would be interested in volunteering with NOVAS in any of our roles please return this Volunteer Application Form to chris.oconnor@novas.ie or kathy.carter@novas.ie. To view a full list of our volunteering roles click here.
