Befriender with British Sign Language skills (Chandler's Ford)

Are you a friendly, patient person who enjoys building meaningful connections? We are looking for a volunteer with British Sign Language (BSL) skills to become a befriender for a person we support who is deaf.

By spending a few hours together each week or fortnight, you will help reduce loneliness, build confidence, and create opportunities for fun and friendship. Every person we support is unique, so you will get to know their interests and plan activities they will enjoy together.

You could be:

•Having a chat over a cup of tea.

•Going for a walk or enjoying time outdoors.

•Playing board games or video games.

•Reading together.

•Taking part in sports or hobbies.

•Visiting local cafés, parks, or community activities.

•Simply spending quality time together and building a genuine friendship.

Our volunteer team and local staff will provide support throughout your volunteering journey.

The difference you'll make

A few hours of your time can have a lasting impact.

By volunteering as a befriender, you will help someone who is deaf and has learning disabilities, autism and/or sight loss feel more connected to their community, develop confidence, and enjoy new experiences. Your companionship can reduce isolation, encourage independence, and create opportunities for laughter, conversation, and shared memories.

You will also become part of a passionate charity that believes everyone deserves the chance to live an ambitious and fulfilling life.

About SeeAbility

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the UK's oldest disability charities. Since 1799, we have been supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, and sight loss to live ambitious lives.

Today, we provide specialist supported living and residential services, expert eye care, and employment support, helping people achieve their goals, gain independence, and enjoy the opportunities that matter most to them.

Everything we do is centred around empowering people to live the lives they choose.

Benefits of volunteering

•Make a real difference to someone's life through friendship and companionship.

•Gain valuable experience supporting people with disabilities.

•Receive training, guidance and ongoing support from SeeAbility.

•Develop your communication and interpersonal skills.

•Meet new people and become part of a welcoming volunteer community.

•Receive reimbursement of agreed travel expenses.

What skills do I need?

We are looking for someone who is:-

•Friendly, kind, and compassionate

•Confident using British Sign Language (BSL)

•A good listener with excellent communication skills

•Reliable, punctual and committed

•Patient, positive and encouraging

•Happy to volunteer for 1–3 hours each week or fortnight

•Able to maintain confidentiality and follow our data protection policies

Experience of working in health & social care beneficial, but not essential.

Location

This opportunity has no specific location e.g. can be carried out anywhere.