Independent visitor for looked after children

Volunteering to support young people in care

An Independent Visitor is a volunteer who gives some of their time each month to support and befriend a child or young person in care who has little to no contact with their birth family or where it is considered to be in the child’s best interests.

As an Independent Visitor you will meet with a child or young person once a month to go out for social visits, share hobbies and interests and try new activities. You will befriend, mentor and provide continuity in the life of a child in care and above all, have fun together! 

“The young person values having someone who is constant and consistent, who takes them at face value and doesn't judge. Someone who won't let them down or leave them after a short time but commits to being a friend through many years.” (Independent Visitor)

“My visitor is great, he really supports me  and has helped me gain the confidence to try new things” (Young Person)

To express your interest in this opportunity or for more information please contact the Independent Visitor Coordinator on 01223 729074 or email IV.service@cambridgeshire.gov.uk 

Ideally you would visit the child or young person once a month, initially for a couple of hours which could be built up as the friendship develops to a time that suits both yourself and the child or young person.  We ask that anyone interested in the opportunity is able to commit to at least one year. 

All volunteers will attend a training session to cover all aspects of the role. You’ll then have access for support from the Independent Visitor Coordinator as needed and quarterly support groups.

Volunteers are provided with a small monthly budget to cover the cost of activities and travel expenses.

No formal education is needed but some personal qualities are essential for the role such as an active interest in the welfare of children, Independent Visitors must be flexible and resilient. Above anything else the volunteer must be committed to visiting the young person once a month and be reliable.  

To make sure all volunteers are suitable for the role they will be expected to undergo an interview, reference checks, training and an enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly CRB).

The ability to drive is desirable, but not essential, some Independent Visitors are able to undertake the role using public transport.