Volunteer Befriender

Bramber Bakehouse is an award-winning charity, supporting women who have experienced abuse, exploitation or displacement with the confidence, knowledge and skills they need for a positive future. We deliver a trauma - informed programme, using baking as a therapeutic tool, in a safe, nurturing, inclusive environment, complemented by wellbeing sessions to equip women with the tools they need to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Connections 121 Befriending is part of Bramber Bakehouse's Progression Programme, and offers participants continued support to improve health and wellbeing through social connection.

We are looking for kind, caring and committed volunteers to provide weekly befriending  (via 30 minute scheduled telephone and /or google meet video calls) to their match over 12. Befrienders provide a consistent relationship of trust and support, providing an opportunity for regular social connection and friendly, non-judgemental conversation.

Please note that the deadline date for applications for this opportunity is midnight Sunday 1st November 2026.

Interviews will be online Tues 10th Nov, or Thurs 12th Nov 2026.

 

Skills

Essential 

• Must be female aged 21+
• A warm and friendly and positive attitude
• An understanding, empathetic and non-judgemental approach 
• A clear sense of personal & professional boundaries 
• Able to build relationships and work positively with team members and other women
• Organised and reliable 
• Good communication skills 
• Good standard of English 
• Good IT skills (i.e. accessing emails, video calls, session forms, virtual training & resources)
• Have a good support system in place for own needs  

Desirable

• Experience working with women survivors of trauma
• Experience of working with ethnically and culturally diverse communities

Benefits

• An opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of other women 
• Ongoing volunteer support is provided by the Programme Lead via telephone, video and email.
• Invitation to attend annual Bramber Bakehouse Team and Community events.
• Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses such as travel costs (with proof of receipt)

Practical Considerations

Other requirements:

• Able to attend Online Training Programme dates: Thurs 26th Nov, Thurs 3rd Dec, Thurs 10th Dec 2026, 10-12.30pm. All 3 training sessions must be completed.
• Able to attend volunteer training, reviews and support meetings as required 
• Access to a telephone, laptop/device and reliable internet connection
• Access to a confidential private space free from distractions to carry out befriending calls 
• Willing to commit to volunteering for 12 months 
• Provide details of a suitable reference
• Complete a basic DBS

Supporting individuals with additional support needs and/or disabilities

This is a home based volunteering opportunity

When do I need to be available?

Details

Volunteering commitment: Approximately 1.5 hours per week (weekly befriending call + related admin & support).Up to 12 sessions per befriending match. Calls may take place Monday - Thursday, between 9am to 4pm for up to 30 minutes. Online training programme dates: Thursday 26th November, Thursday 3rd December & Thursday 10th December 2026, 10am - 12.30pm. Please note all 3 training sessions must be completed.

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Register your Interest