Big Buddy
Volunteer with Kingston’s Big Buddy scheme
Kingston’s Big Buddy scheme is looking for people who have good communication skills, enjoy working with young people and have a great sense of fun.
The Big Buddy scheme trains volunteers to work with young people in the Royal Borough, aged 8 to 12 years, who have additional needs.
Volunteers develop a one to one mentoring relationship with the young person, meeting up for a couple of hours twice each month, with a budget to spend on activities and resources. Volunteers provide the young people with a positive role model, helping them to set and achieve personal goals and make links with their local community.
To become a volunteer you will need to fill in an application form, provide references, complete a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check and attend a comprehensive training course of about 20 hours. You will be provided with regular supervisions, peer support meetings, and telephone/email support from the Big Buddy Coordinator.
For the details and dates of the next course please contact:
Brad Coupar
Ground Floor
Guildhall 1
Kingston upon Thames
KT1 1BB
Telephone: 020 8547 6930
Email: brad.coupar@rbk.kingston.gov.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Buddy all about?
We want to make a difference to the lives of young people with additional needs by offering them one to one mentoring to help with specific issues, over a set period.
Do I need any qualifications or experience?
Experience of working or dealing with young people is desirable but not essential. Volunteers must attend and pass an in-house training course, supply two good references and complete a Criminal Records Bureau check.
How old do I have to be?
All mentors must be over 18 years of age. We don’t have an upper age limit - it’s about being friendly, fun, supportive and a good role model!
How much time will I need to give?
Volunteers meet their mentee twice a month for at least two hours. Mentors also need to communicate with Big Buddy weekly and fill in monthly recording forms.
How much commitment do I need to give?
We require volunteers to commit for a set period (9 months) after training.
Will it cost me anything?
No. Big Buddy gives volunteers a monthly budget and reimburses travel expenses.
What are the young people like?
All referred young people are aged 8 to 12. They would benefit from a mentor for a variety of reasons; from issues at home or at school to having mild learning difficulties or low self esteem. We take care to match young people to the right volunteer so that both get the most out of the mentoring experience.
What kind of volunteer is Big Buddy looking for?
A large percentage of our referrals are young men who need a positive male role model to help them achieve their goals and improve their self esteem – so we welcome more male volunteers, and enthusiastic women too! The scheme welcomes anyone with enthusiasm and a genuine passion for working with young people.