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Befriender

HostNation

HostNation believes every refugee deserves a friend. We connect those offering friendship with those needing it.

Befriending is a chance to reach out as willing volunteers to give marginalised refugees and asylum seekers a more positive experience of our cities and towns and everything they have to offer. It is a chance for refugees to practise their English with a native (or at least fluent) English speaker, to learn more about British culture and traditions and to participate in English life.

A good way to look at it is to see your befriendee as your city or town's "guest" and you as their local "host". Even people who have been in the UK a decade or more have experienced very little of what Britain has to offer.

If you are interested please complete our online application process https://www.hostnation.org.uk/befriend

What skills do I need?

We are looking for open-minded, welcoming individuals with a desire to promote social inclusion. Experience supporting vulnerable people or refugees is a bonus, but is not mandatory. The most important thing is a friendly character and enthusiasm to share the city and region with a new friend.


You can apply for this role at https://www.hostnation.org.uk/befriend

About HostNation

HostNation believes every refugee deserves a friend. We connect those offering friendship with those needing it. Befriending is a chance to reach out as willing volunteers to give marginalised refugees and asylum seekers a more positive experience of our cities and towns and everything they have to offer. It is a chance for refugees to practise their English with a native (or at least fluent) English speaker, to learn more about British culture and traditions and to participate in English life. A good way to look at it is to see your befriendee as your city or town’s ‘guest’ and you as their local ‘host’. Even people who have been in the UK a decade or more have experienced very little of what Britain has to offer.

When do I need to be available?

Morning Afternoon Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Details

As a befriender, you commit to meet your friend weekly for 3 months.

Register your interest
  • Ideal for people interested in
  • Black and Minority Ethnic Communities
  • Civic Responsibility and Communities
  • Ideal for people who like
  • Supporting People and Befriending
  • Details
  • Accessibility
  • Age restrictions
    18 plus
  • DBS check required
  • Equal Opportunities Policy
  • Expenses reimbursed
    We offer refugees travel expenses such as a Metro Card. Our befrienders are not expected to provide financial support towards their friendship.
  • Ongoing support
    Monthly check-ins with hub manager, who can also be contacted by email.
  • Training provided
    Training call covering safeguarding issues.
  • Volunteer induction
    There will be an initial training zoom session to introduce you to the overall process. We also provide a Volunteer Handbook.
  • Volunteer Policy
  • Volunteers covered by insurance
    Volunteers are not covered by insurance.
  • Written role description
  • Application Process
  • Application Form
  • Informal Discussion
  • Interview
  • References

Are you looking for support and guidance on volunteering?

The North Tyneside Volunteer Centre is here to help! Whether you're considering volunteering or an existing volunteer, or if you are an organisation in North Tyneside that involves volunteers, we offer comprehensive advice and resources. For detailed information and to explore our services, please visit the Volunteering section of VODA's website.

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