Sense Virtual Buddy Volunteer
You and your buddy choose a time that suits you, and you can decide what activities you’d like to do together.
Here’s what Bethany has to say about volunteering as a Virtual Buddy: “I just know that on a Thursday I’m going to be laughing at the end of my day. It’s a really positive part of my week.”
Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests to ensure you’ll have lots of fun together. Once matched with a buddy, you will get to know each other remotely via video calls or phone calls.
You’ll arrange weekly sessions and plan fun things to do together – what this looks like will be inspired by your mutual interests. You could be gaming, doing arts and crafts, playing music, seed planting – there are so many possibilities! We will provide you with weekly themed activities to help to support you in planning your interactions with your buddy.
We’ll also keep in touch with you to ensure you have all the support you need.
The programme is open to all volunteers who are 16 and over. You don't need to have previous experience volunteering or caring for disabled people. We welcome people from all backgrounds and with all interests.
Before you start your volunteering role, we’ll make sure that you’ve had the training you need to feel confident. This will be delivered online and via video call.
Volunteering as a Sense Virtual Buddy is a great opportunity to develop new skills and get to know new people whilst making a real difference to a person’s life.
While you’re volunteering with us as a Virtual Buddy, you’ll get:
- A written account of your volunteering and references if required
- Access to additional communication courses such as Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language
- Reimbursement of pre-agreed expenses
Training includes:
Safeguarding
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Confidentiality & Data Protection
Training is also tailored specifically to support you in your role as a Virtual Buddy. We are also able to offer you additional e-learning to gain an understanding of different methods of communication (this is optional).
Employability skills = Communication skills: verbal and non-verbal, interpersonal skills, organisation.
We need positive, empathetic volunteers who are passionate about supporting people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. We are looking for volunteers who are great communicators and who are friendly, enthusiastic, positive and ready to have fun!