Mencap - Fresh Air Visiting Volunteer

Fresh Air Visiting Volunteer

Are you a kind and patient person who enjoys getting out into nature? Do you think you could spare some time every other month to visit a person with a learning disability in their home, and perhaps once you had built a relationship to go out for a short walk? Perhaps in the woods or to a pub or cafe?

We support a 65-year-old year old gentleman just South of Truro who would like a volunteer to do just this. He loves nature and animals and as such really enjoys getting out into the fresh air. Any trips out would be accompanied by members of his care team, who know him extremely well and are always available.

This gentleman has complex learning disabilities, so experience related to this field would be helpful, but not essential. He does not communicate verbally, but will let you know how he is feeling through gestures, facial expressions, and leading you to what he wants.

You will need to have strong communication skills, and to be patient with those for whom communication can be a challenge.

Our volunteers are kind and passionate people. They are keen to challenge themselves and others for the best possible outcomes, and they are inclusive of everyone, regardless of disability.

Does this describe you? If so, please get in touch.

The Mencap visiting service was launched in 1963 and was designed to be a befriending service to adults with a learning disability for after their parents pass away. Typically it constitutes 6 visits per year.

His parents wanted to make sure that somebody would be able to visit him when they were no longer able.

Mencap are strongly encouraging all our colleagues to have the Covid-19 vaccine as a way to help protect each other and the people we support.  This is becoming increasingly important as evidence is starting to grow that the vaccine could help stop the spread of the virus, as well as protecting the person vaccinated from getting very ill. In addition, you maybe asked to take a lateral flow test or wear PPE when you volunteer.

To apply, you will first need to register to use the Mencap recruitment system. Once logged in, you will then need to click the "apply" button, and fill in our 1 page application form.

Please email dominic.mellor@mencap.org.uk with any questions.

Benefits

• Relevant training
• Induction to the service and volunteer role
• A settling in period to make sure this is the right role for me
• To feel fully supported in your role
• Agreed out-of-pocket expenses to be reimbursed (e.g. travel)
• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team
• The opportunity to learn new skills
• To feel appreciated and valued for my contribution
• Ongoing support from Volunteer Services Coordinator and Service Manager

About Mencap

Mencap is the leading voice of learning disability. We want to see a world where people with a learning disability are valued equally, listened to and included.

We are determined to achieve this by changing attitudes, providing services and influencing those who can help us change the lives of people with a learning disability.

For more information about what is a learning disability click here. 

Volunteering with Mencap is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

Apply