"Our Independent Visitor scheme is an excellent programme that offers our young people in care the opportunity to form a meaningful bond with a responsible adult."
A call has been issued by Leicestershire County Council for volunteers to help children and young people in care.
Independent Visitors spend a few hours a month with vulnerable young people participating in activities such as walking in the park, going to the cinema or eating at a restaurant.
These meetings allow young people in care to connect with a responsible adult outside their immediate circle of foster carers, social workers and teachers.
Leicestershire resident Neil began volunteering as an Independent Visitor over a year ago, he said: “The broad range of experiences we do has let me and my young person get to know each other quite well, an experience I’ve really enjoyed.
“I was worried that we wouldn’t click but I needn’t have. When you spend time with a young person, you can easily find common ground.”
Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families, said: "Our Independent Visitor scheme is an excellent programme that offers our young people in care the opportunity to form a meaningful bond with a responsible adult.
“We see great results from this scheme as young people can form a supportive and positive friendship with someone ready to listen and support whilst they’re in care.
“If you have just a few hours a month that you can spare and are keen to make a true and lasting impact on one of our looked after young people, I’d encourage you to get in touch with our team.”
Anyone interested in becoming an independent visitor can find out more, and watch a video from volunteers about the role on the webpage, or call 0116 305 0505
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