Befriender for Young Refugees & Asylum Seekers
Jewish Council For Racial Equality
SW7 1BX
20 positions available
Enhanced DBS check required
Description
HIAS+JCORE is inviting compassionate and reliable individuals to become volunteer befrienders as part of their JUMP project, a unique initiative that pairs unaccompanied young asylum seekers and refugees with trained adult volunteers. The project is rooted in the power of meaningful connection, aiming to build sincere, supportive friendships that can make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. As a volunteer, you’ll meet with a young person approximately every two weeks for a year, offering informal support and companionship. Each friendship is shaped by the interests and personalities of those involved—some might explore new places together, while others might simply enjoy a regular chat over coffee. The aim is to offer a consistent, friendly presence during a time that can feel uncertain and isolating. As part of the JUMP community, you’ll: -Build a genuine friendship with a young asylum seeker or refugee. -Offer encouragement, informal guidance, and social connection. -Take part in occasional events and activities with the wider JUMP network. -Receive full training and safeguarding checks to support you in your role. This opportunity is ideal for anyone who believes in the importance of inclusion, friendship, and human connection. If you're interested in making a meaningful impact in someone’s life while learning from a new perspective, HIAS+JCORE would love to hear from you. Register your interest today to become part of the JUMP community.
Once we receive your application form (https://www.hiasjcore.org/become-befriender-jump/) we will contact you for an informal online interview. Following this we will ask for 2 professional references and initiate an Enhanced DBS check. Finally there will be an in person training (3 hours) before pairing you with a young person.
Multiple Specific Addresses
Need to be over 18
Ongoing
- Application form
- Interview
- References
- Online application
- Need own phone
- Need own computer / access to internet
- Access to group meetings / socials / team events
- Access to telephone / online support
- Day to day support
- Training period
- Peer support / buddying system in place
Befrienders meet young people at a mutually convenient location.
● Able to establish good relationships with young people. ● Able to use a non-judgemental, non-directive approach to working with young people. ● Empathy, sensitivity and patience ● Strong communication and listening skills. ● Reliable in making and keeping commitments, including arrangements to meet up. ● Aware of the needs of young people. ● Sympathy for the difficulties that asylum seeking/refugee children and young people face. ● Willing to enhance own awareness of the issues facing asylum-seeking and refugee children/young people through training. ● Aware of safeguarding and child protection issues, and: Willing to enhance this through JUMP training. Willing to follow JCORE’s safeguarding policy and procedures. ● Willing to ask for help when uncertain when befriending and to discuss the experience of befriending through regular updates and supervision.
This role requires an Enhanced DBS check
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