Volunteers needed to support local children and young people

City of York Council is appealing for volunteers to support local children and young people in variety of roles across the city.

There is a range of different voluntary roles available in York, including mentoring; work with York Youth Justice Service; Community Youth Support and Independent Visitors, (IV), who support a young person each month over a number of years.

Cllr Andrew Waller, the council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Volunteers really can help to shape a young person’s life, especially if they have the opportunity to build a relationship over a number of years.

“There are so many different types of volunteering available and while some roles do require previous experience of working with children and young people, many simply need someone who’s willing to give a couple of hours of their time each week or month to support a young person.

“I’d urge anyone who’s considering volunteering in 2023 to get in touch and find out more about the positive impact they could make.”

A local volunteer explained why they got involved: “I started volunteering for a children’s charity around a year ago. I had a couple of spare hours a week and I wanted to use that time to give something back to the community where I lived. Volunteering can be really flexible, and because of this it easily fits into my busy family and day-to-day life.

“I know even giving an hour or two means so much to the young person I support. It’s something they look forward to every week without fail, it gives them the chance to have fun, gain confidence in meeting new people and try new things. The charity I volunteer with has been so supportive too. I recommend to anyone to give it a go.”

Full training and on going support is provided. The level of commitment required depends on the role ranging from three-four hours per week for a year for a young person’s mentor, to around four hours a month over two years, for an Independent Visitor.

To find out more about local volunteering opportunities visit www.york.gov.uk/WorkingWithYoungPeople