Befriend a Veteran

Are you a social person who enjoys talking to interesting people? Can you spare an hour once a week or even once a fortnight? If so, this role could be for you!

At Blind Veterans UK, our home-visiting befrienders provide crucial social interaction for our veterans, especially veterans who may be struggling to get out independently, as this often leads to them feeling isolated or lonely.

We are currently looking for a volunteer to visit one of our veterans in the Welling area for a chat and perhaps a cup of tea. Our veteran is very social and he has a great personality. If you are a friendly, reliable and trustworthy person, please get in touch - a friendly face and chat can make all the difference to our veterans. It is important to note that you will not be required to provide any personal care in your role as a Blind Veterans UK volunteer.

Volunteers must be over the age of 18 years and understand the importance of confidentiality and the importance of relationship boundaries between volunteer and our member (the veteran). The role can be flexible around your other commitments, but we ask that your visits are planned in advance to meet the veteran's needs and that you are punctual. You do not need to have experience of supporting visually impaired people or of volunteering or of befriending - you will be fully trained and supported so you feel comfortable and confident in your volunteering role.

What skills do I need?

You should be a good communicator, be reliable and committed. You must understand the importance of boundaries between a service-user (the veteran) and a volunteer befriender (you).