Opportunity

Sense Virtual Buddy Northern Ireland

Could you become a Virtual Buddy for Sense Northern Ireland?

Sense Virtual Buddy is a befriending service is for disabled people of any age in the UK. The programme helps people connect, create new friendships and build confidence. Sense NI want to recruit volunteers here to match with and make a difference to people with a disability who live in Northern Ireland.  The Sense Virtual Buddy team matches each volunteer based on age, personality, interests and availability to make sure you have a good time together.

What we’d like from you

This is about fun and friendship; get to know each other, discover some activities that you both enjoy, try new things, chat, laugh and have fun together.  We will help you find, arrange or suggest activities to get you started; try art, music, cooking, singing or whatever suits you both! 

We’ll support you by providing training, resources, guidance and ongoing support.

We want people who are kind and committed, friendly and reliable, and who are willing to adapt and learn from their buddy.  Friendships are important, we’d like you to commit for six months.

Your one hour per week volunteering as a Virtual Buddy will make a real difference, help reduce the isolation and loneliness many people with disabilities experience.  

The programme is open to volunteers who are 16 and over.  You don’t need to have experience volunteering or caring for disabled people.  We welcome people from all background’s and with all interests.

What’s in it for you?

We’re offering you the opportunity to meet new people, gain experience working with people with disability and gain new skills which we know can and will help you in your career.

Virtual Buddying is flexible and works around you. You and your buddy choose a time that suits and decide what activities you’ll do.

We offer training and support from the dedicated VB team and the chance to make a real difference, to learn and develop new communication skills.

Join us, together we make memories, make connections and make a difference.

What we’ll do to support you

Once you send your application a member of the team will be in touch to learn more about you and the things you enjoy.  They will discuss the training, answer your questions and work out your availability.  

This will help us find the right match for you. 

We’ll invite you to an online training session and afterwards send you a short training package, so you’re prepared. 

The VB team join you for the first few sessions as you get to know your buddy and will keep in touch with you to offer any guidance or support you need.       

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