Do you want to help a young person in care? Can you spare a few hours each month? Can you be a long-term role model?
We need volunteers to be Independent Visitors (IV). An Independent Visitor is a volunteer who supports a young person (aged 5 to 18) who is cared for by the local authority.
As an Independent Visitor, you will be matched with a young person in Portsmouth and nearby areas. You will meet them once or twice a month to do fun activities. Young people in care often face many changes, like new social workers, foster homes, and moving schools. The Independent Visitor service aims to give them a long-term and consistent adult who can be a mentor, role model, and friend. This can be very rewarding for both you and the young person.
You will get to know them, take them out on activities each month, and listen if they need advice or support. We cover all approved expenses and mileage costs for activities with your young person, so you don’t have to worry about that. Independent Visitors are independent of social services.
If you are over 18 and can commit to a few hours each month for the long term, we want to hear from you. We will organise enhanced DBS checks and references as part of the recruitment process. You will also need to complete some training sessions, which are usually arranged to fit around your existing commitments. As a volunteer, you will receive ongoing support and training through group support sessions and one-on-one catch-up sessions.
Once you are accredited, you will be carefully matched with a young person based on where you live, your availability, and your interests and hobbies.
Being an independent visitor is an important and valuable role that can make a positive difference in a child’s life. You can help a child in care feel safe, supported, and listened to.
Contact us
We welcome people from all walks of life to join our wonderful team.
Email independentvisitors@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call 07920 087560.
Video: Independent visitor service
This short video will show you key information about the independent visitor service.
Watch time: 2 mins