BBASS is always pleased to welcome new volunteers. The Co-ordinator will explain to you how the service works and discuss with you the time and skills you have to offer.

If you wish to proceed as a volunteer you will be asked to complete an application form. Following this an interview will be arranged, references sought and a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check requested.

Once you have been accepted as a volunteer, you will spend time with your Co-ordinator learning the processes for Befriending or Advocacy and getting a feel for the role. When the time is right your Co-ordinator will match you to a client in your local area and introduce you.

What is an Advocate? The advocate will help you to access information and services, explore choices and options, while respecting your views and wishes. They will provide you with practical support when you are about to or have recently suffered a bereavement.

• Engaging with you to build trust and resilience
• Providing information to help you to administer various aspects in relation to the death
• Communicate, monitoring, review and report progress
• Working on a one to one basis
• Help you to write letters or speaking on your behalf
• Empowering you to speak for yourself
• Informing you of your rights

What is a Befriender? The Befriender will support you to achieve positive outcomes.  Initially the role is to  develop a  relationship through social activities in order to establish a level of trust on which positive outcome can be achieved. Due to your changing circumstances, outcomes may take time to achieve and may be low key.

• Engaging with you to build trust and resilience
• Reducing your isolation and build your confidence
• Provide support to help you to come to terms with changes in your life
• Communicate, monitor, review, and report  progress