Volunteer Befriender

Activity Overview

Level of Study

Undergraduate, Postgraduate Taught/Masters, Postgraduate Research

Award Type

Combined Route

The Independent Visitor (IV) Scheme is a befriending project for care experienced young people aged 11-18 in the Belfast and South Eastern Trust areas. Volunteers meet with their young person once a fortnight to enjoy a fun activity or excursion. Volunteers are reimbursed for their travel expenses and are given a small budget for activities. 

Becoming an IV volunteer is a particularly exciting opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience of working with young people. It’s also a great opportunity for those who are considering a career change, as well as for those who just wish to support a young person in need. 

We provide full training and continuous support to all volunteers. In NIACRO, we are proud to have recently renewed our Investors in Volunteer (IiV) Award - which is the UK quality standard for all organisations which involve volunteers in their work. 

We have volunteers from all walks of life and varying ages and backgrounds - we particularly welcome volunteers from ethnic minority groups, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those with a disability. 

Further Information

The contact for student enquiries is Lynsey.buick@niacro.co.uk