This will be based on:
- Volunteers regularly meet with a matched family member, to build a relationship of friendship and trust and enjoy sociable outings.
- Help to reduce stigma around alcohol and drug use and understand the impact that this can have on the family.
- Encourage engagement and work with successful family support groups to achieve this.
You will be able to help us create a befriending service which supports family members impacted by substance use to improve self-confidence, emotional health and wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
As a befriender, volunteers will be expected to support a Scottish Families service user by providing a listening ear; creating connections built on understanding, trust, and kindness. Volunteers would be expected to commit around 2/3 hours a week/fortnightly to spend time to get to know the family member, create connections and enjoy social outings!
We want befrienders who are reliable, flexible, and understanding of difficult family situations due to substance use. Volunteers will not be asked to pay for anything while they are carrying out their role with Scottish Families.
For our befriending roles with regular outgoings, we operate a float system for all activities and expenses. Volunteers would also be expected to complete a diary sheet after each visit and regularly attend supervision with the volunteer and befriending staff.
They will be able to correspond with staff, detailing where and when meetings will take place and keep staff informed of how the match is going. There will also be regular check-ins and supervision to ensure that this is a positive volunteer experience!
If this sounds like you, please fill in our form here and we will be in touch. You can contact volunteering@sfad.org.uk for more information.