Jan Prisic has been volunteering with the former Broomhouse Elderly Befriending Service, now part of Vintage Vibes Edinburgh, since 2014. She tells us why she got involved and how being a volunteer in Edinburgh makes a difference.
Get in touch: hello@vintagevibes.org.uk
Or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!
A: Firstly, have a think about what you can offer: how much time can you realistically give up each week? Would you like to visit on a one-to-one basis, or take someone out and about? Then, get in touch with us at hello@vintagevibes.org.uk or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!
A: We’re looking for anyone between 17 and, well . . . the sky’s the limit!
A: The key aim of Vintage Vibes is to offer long-lasting friendships and create sustainable networks for people who are isolated and/or lonely in Edinburgh. So to volunteer in Edinburgh with Vintage Vibes, we’re asking you to commit to a minimum of six months, and ask that you be able to take part at least once a week for an hour or two during the day time.
A: Yes! We have lots of volunteers who visit their VIP at the weekend or after work (although most VIPs prefer a daytime visit). We are very happy to be flexible to allow you to volunteer around other commitments.
A: We’ll ask you about your interests and general likes, and how you think you might be able to help. Do you have a dog, for example, who could come with you on visits? Or perhaps you’re sporty and could help someone keep active, or reminisce about sport with them. Whatever you have to offer, we want to help match you with someone with shared interests and experiences.
A: As you are volunteering with protected adults, Vintage Vibes will apply for you to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. This is a lifelong membership and is free to join if you are a volunteer through us. If you are an existing member of the PVG scheme, we just have to do an update.
A: Our friendships are about finding the best match for you, and sometimes, if we’re honest, that can take a little time (but it’s worth it!). Whilst we are waiting for your references and PVG to come back, we’ll make sure you’re invited to our training sessions and you are more than welcome to come along to the volunteer social events that we hold every 2 months so you can get to know other wonderful volunteers.
A: Absolutely! Volunteers are the cornerstone of Vintage Vibes, so we’re committed to ensuring you’re valued and supported. We hold a volunteer induction session with other volunteers, as well as regular check-ins with your Friendships Coordinator.
A: Yes! As a Vintage Vibes volunteer in Edinburgh, we cover reasonable travel expenses to and from your volunteering, as well as teas/coffees and ticket costs whilst volunteering.
Or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!
OUR GOAL
Our goal is to tackle isolation and loneliness and to encourage VIPs to become more active in their local communities.
YOUR ROLE WILL INCLUDE:
YOUR AVAILABILITY TO VOLUNTEER IN EDINBURGH
VOLUNTEER EXPENSES
No previous skills or experience are necessary. You just need to have an open and friendly approach!
Interested? Give us a call on 0131 343 0955 or email hello@vintagevibes.org.uk
Download the Volunteer Role Description here.
Or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!
(If you are having trouble with our online form you can also access a paper copy here: Download the Vintage Vibes Volunteer Application Form)
