MySight York
Befriending Service
About MySight York
MySight York’s free befriending service can be accessed either over the phone (Keeping in Touch) or in person (Home Visiting). Visits and calls are either weekly or fortnightly. The aim is to bring joy and positivity to those living with sight loss in York, helping to reduce loneliness, isolation and providing practical support. The aim of the home visiting service is to support individuals living with sight loss to remain as independent as is appropriate to their circumstances. The service provides volunteers on a long-term and is about doing with rather than for. This can involve going for a walk, participating in a hobby together, helping with correspondence, or sharing a chat over a cuppa. Please note that volunteers do not carry out any personal care or undertake cleaning, food shopping or household chores.
14 Merchants Place, Merchantgate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9TU
Service Eligibility
Our befriending services are open to people over 18 who are living with sight loss. The Home Visiting service is open to residents within the City of York Council boundary whilst the telephone befriending service is open to people living in York and the surrounding area. People can self refer to the befriending service and referrals can be made on behalf of someone else. Please make sure you have the permission of the person you are referring. Professionals must complete the Professional Referral form on our website.
Information for Volunteers
The role will involve either ringing or visiting a client weekly or fortnightly. Home visitors can help with post, go for a walk, help clients take part in activities hobbies, or sit and have a chat and a cuppa. Volunteers will usually visit clients in their own homes which can be anywhere within the City of York. MySight York will meet reasonable travel costs.
No previous experience of working with blind or partially sighted people is necessary as full training will be given. A friendly nature, empathy and an interest in people, especially older people, is a must. You would also be a good listener and have a non-judgemental attitude. We ask for two references and you’ll be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting. Training and induction is provided.
More InformationAge Groups
Young People (18-25), Adults (25-65)Themes
Disability, Older PeopleRegions
Country: England
Yorkshire and the HumberOther Information
Type of Befriending: Distance befriending including telephone, video call, letter writing or other means, Face to face befriending which takes place in the home or community
Who can refer: Self Referrals Accepted, Friends & Family Referrals Accepted, Professional Referrals Accepted