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We’re seeking compassionate, reliable adults to become Independent Visitors - volunteer mentors and trusted friends to children and young people in care.

What is an Independent Visitor?

An Independent Visitor (IV) is a volunteer befriender and mentor who visits a young person in care once a month, usually on weekends, to enjoy fun, supportive activities together. As an IV, you’ll be a consistent, caring adult outside their professional network - someone who chooses to be there, just for them.

This is a long-term role, and we ask volunteers to commit to at least two years to help build a strong, stable relationship.

We’re especially keen to hear from volunteers based in or near London, Croydon and Kent, where many of our young people live.

Why it matters

Young people in care often face instability and frequent change. Having a consistent adult who listens, encourages and simply spends time with them can be life changing.

“My IV is the one person who’s always there for me. They make me feel like I matter.” Young Person in Care.

Who can volunteer?

You don’t need previous experience - just the right values and commitment. We’re looking for caring people who are:

Friendly and approachable
Patient, empathetic and consistent
A good listener
Committed to visiting once a month for at least two years
Willing to complete training and safeguarding checks

We particularly welcome applications from male volunteers and individuals from Black, Asian and other underrepresented communities.

What will you be doing?

As an Independent Visitor, you’ll:

Meet your young person once a month for activities like going to the cinema, bowling, exploring parks or just having a chat
Suggest age-appropriate outings based on their interests
Keep in touch between visits with a weekly call or message (if they’d like)
Occasionally join in on group events
Create meaningful, lasting memories

Please note that all travel and activity expenses will be covered.

Training & ongoing support

Before you start, we’ll provide:

Full initial training
Ongoing support and one-to-one supervision
Access to additional training through Southwark’s volunteer resources

Contact information

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Sav D’Souza via email at Sav.D'Souza@southwark.gov.uk

Recruitment timeline

Applications reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Interviews: To be confirmed.

The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. We strongly advise you to complete your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re looking for a rewarding, long-term volunteering opportunity where you can support a young person one to one and help them thrive, we’d love to receive an application from you today!

Additional Information

Southwark Council will only contact candidates through official Council recruitment channels. We will not ask you to provide passport details, proof of address, National Insurance number, bank details or payment at application stage. These checks are only requested at the onboarding process – once an offer of employment has been made. If you’re unsure whether a communication you’ve received is genuine, please contact the Resourcing team directly on recruitment@southwark.gov.uk before sharing any personal information.