Job Description

Job Overview

We are launching a brand new Befriending Project and we are looking for a dedicated individual who can offer 16 hours a week over 4 days (not Wed) to support older people who are at risk of social isolation. This will be an hourly paid role and will be paid weekly each Thursday @ 12.60 per hour.

This will include a minimum of 10 hours per week befriending along with administration one day per month at Head Office in St Ann's Square.

As a Befriender you will visit older people in their own homes' who may be experiencing isolation, ill-health, reduced mobility and loneliness to offer support and companionship.

What's involved?

Help older people feel less lonely by providing a listening ear, engaging them in conversation and to listen with interest

Promote ageing in a positive way

Helping others to adapt to changes

To refer and signpost an older person to other organisations and agencies that may support their health and well-being

Encourage older people to attend social groups e.g. coffee mornings or one-off events, accompanying them to improve their self confidence

Any other reasonable activities aimed at enhancing an older person's quality of life e.g. a walk to a shop, visit a park

Complete and return monthly visit sheets and feed back to the Counselling/Befriending Service Manager

You will not be required to provide personal care (e.g. feeding, washing) or give direct medical advice or medication to clients.

What knowledge do I need?

As a Befriender, it would be beneficial (but not essential) for you to:

Experience of Older people's issues

Have experience or some knowledge of transitional life events e.g. retirement, divorce, ill-health

Understand how life events can impact on physical and mental health/wellbeing

Be willing to find out about local services and how to support individuals to use them

What skills do I need?

As a Befriender, we ask that you:

A passion to make a difference to people's lives

Have good listening and communication skills

Have an interest in and empathy/compassion for older people

Ability to provide non-judgemental support and encouragement to people who struggle with memory or illness

Are able to respect confidentiality even in difficult situations

Are honest, reliable, committed with a flexible approach to meet clients' needs

A full/clean driving licence

What can I gain from this role?

A greater awareness of services and activities in your local area

Be part of a great team within Age Uk Manchester

Training and support in areas such as active listening, understanding the barriers to social isolation and appropriate signposting

Opportunity to meet new people and use and develop your skills

Training You will receive

Full training and support to help you to improve your confidence and understanding for this role. You will be required to complete mandatory training/Induction before you begin your role. This will cover areas such as boundaries, confidentiality, and safeguarding.

Support

You will be supported by the Counselling/Befriending Services Manager who will ensure that your training and development needs are met, and provide ongoing support as needed.

Expenses

We will refund you for any travel costs, the shortest distance in miles will only be paid if claiming mileage @ .40 per mile. (Google Maps shortest distance - postcode to postcode).

Please note an enhanced DBS will be required and completed by Age Uk Manchester prior to starting.

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 9 months

Pay: 12.60 per hour

Expected hours: 16 per week

Benefits:

Referral programme Store discount
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 21/03/2025
Reference ID: BefrAUK25