Frequently asked questions
Who is VSS for?
Life can deal us all sorts of blows like illness, relationship breakdown, bereavement or job loss. When any of us experience emotional distress we can lose our confidence in our ability to make relationships, mix with other people socially, or take up old hobbies or activities. As a consequence we can become lonely and isolated and have fewer opportunities to enjoy everyday life.
The people helped are over 18 years of age and live in the areas around Tiverton and Cullompton, Mid Devon.
How does this work?
Our volunteers visit for an hour a week. They listen and help people to explore what steps they want to take to change the way life currently seems. Just having someone listen to you (without judging you) when life seems a bit of a muddle can help you to work out what you want to do next. It is easy to put off doing something when no-one seems to care, but knowing your volunteer will be coming back next week and asking how things have gone can prompt you to make that 'phone call or book that appointment. And when life seems bleak having a volunteer who has noticed the little steps that you have been able to make can encourage you and help you to begin to see yourself differently. We do not expect volunteers to offer counselling - just every day common sense, good humour and tolerance.
Who are the volunteers?
Our volunteers come from all walks of life. The most important thing they bring to the work is being a good listener with the ability to stay alongside someone who is struggling and to encourage them to take their own steps without the urge to offer advice or to do it for them. Often our volunteers have been through some rough patch in their own lives and are able to understand when someone is feeling totally isolated and lacking in self-esteem because of what life has thrown at them. However it is really important for volunteers that any rough patch they have experienced is now well in the past because doing this work can be very demanding in itself.
Where will we meet?
Volunteers usually visit you in your own home. Sometimes that might not be possible, for instance if you can't have privacy there. Then you might meet in a local café or go for a walk. Sometimes, as part of your plans to change things, you might ask your volunteer to come with you to find out what the local college has to offer or to go to the CAB for advice.
Do I have to pay?
We receive grants to pay for the administration needed and the volunteers' travel expenses. The only cost to you will be if the volunteer takes you somewhere in their car. That part of the mileage is then your responsibility.
How long will I have my volunteer for?
The VSS was set up for people who want a helping hand to change the way their life currently is. While you are linked to a volunteer the Co-ordinator will regularly contact you to make sure that the Scheme is still helping you. There is no set time limit. While it is still working your volunteer will still visit (although it may, occasionally, be necessary to swap to another volunteer if your volunteer needs to move on).
Will what I say to my volunteer be private?
What you say to your volunteer is totally private to the two of you, with the exception that the volunteer is at liberty to discuss anything with the Co-ordinator. If we are really concerned about something we will ask you to contact your GP or whoever is appropriate. Only if you refuse to do that and we are still seriously worried will we then talk to someone outside the Scheme, having told you that is what we are going to do.
How can I get a volunteer?
Contact us by ringing 01884 258507 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri), e-mailing voluntary.supportscheme@virgin.net or write to us at VSS, Beck House, Beck's Square, Tiverton, EX16 5EQ. The Co-ordinator will ask you for the name of someone they can talk to to check that the VSS is the right service for you (that might be your GP or someone else who is involved in helping you from a health visitor to another voluntary scheme). They will then arrange to meet you to talk over how the Scheme works and whether it would help you.
How could I become a volunteer?
Our volunteers come from all walks of life. The most important thing they bring to the work is being a good listener with the ability to stay alongside someone who is struggling and to encourage them to take their own steps without the urge to offer advice or to do it for them.
Often our volunteers have been through some rough patch in their own lives and are able to understand when someone is feeling totally isolated and lacking in self-esteem because of what life has thrown at them. However it is really important for volunteers that any rough patch they have experienced is now well in the past because doing this work can be very demanding in itself.
If you think this describes you we would love to hear from you.
Contact us by ringing 01884 258507 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri),
e-mailing voluntary.supportscheme@virgin.net
or write to us at
VSS, Beck House, Beck's Square, Tiverton, EX16 5EQ.
What do you offer volunteers?
Volunteers are offered all the support, information and training they need. Through the Support Group meetings volunteers gain confidence in their own skills and develop new ones becoming a valued part of a supportive team. Volunteers are covered by our insurance and have their travel costs and any out of pocket expenses reimbursed.