Current Availability: **4 spaces**
Commitment: Weekly Meetings over 10/16 sessions
The role of a befriender at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service is all about being a caring individual to the people who need support. Befrienders do different things to make people feel better and help them out.
They meet up one-on-one with the people they're supporting. They might go out for coffee and have chats, which is like having a friendly conversation. They also do fun things like taking dogs for walks together. Sometimes, they help with small tasks like filling out forms or going to important appointments. This makes life easier for the people they're helping.
Current Availability: **1 space**
Commitment: Weekly Meetings over 10/16 sessions
The role of a counsellor at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service is really important. These are special people who help others during tough times. Some are learning to become counsellors, and they come here to practice what they're learning. Others are already trained and want to use their skills to help those affected by domestic abuse.
Counsellors spend time talking and listening to the people they're supporting. They create a safe space for them to share their feelings and thoughts. It's like having a heart-to-heart chat with someone who cares and understands. They help people understand their feelings and find ways to cope with challenges.
Befrienders are like superheroes because they're there when things are tough. They're ready to help even at short notice, like going to court to support someone. This is really important because court can be scary, and having a friendly face can make a big difference. So, being a befriender means being a friendly face and helping out with different things. It's like spreading kindness and making people's lives a bit brighter during hard times.
For those in training, this is a chance to learn by doing, and for the experienced ones, it's a way to give back to the community. They might meet regularly with the people they're helping, offering comfort and guidance. It's like being a friendly guide on a tough journey.
Counsellors at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service make a big difference by being there for those who need someone to talk to. They offer support, understanding, and a shoulder to lean on, helping people heal and find strength.
What Happens Next?
What Happens Next?
First reach out to [email protected] to become a TDAS Volunteer, you can see that process here: How to start volunteering with TDAS
Once the paperwork is complete, then we will offer a series of training sessions.
We will then usually offer the chance to join a social group or pattern changing session - this can be to help build some confidence if people feel they might need it.
We will introduce you to the project worker who is working with the person you will be supporting. They will inform you with any relevant information and share their contact details.
You will then meet the person you are supporting with their project worker, or someone within the team, and then you will have 6 weeks of supporting that person (if needed).
After 6 weeks we will do a review meeting and do next steps.
First reach out to [email protected] to become a TDAS Volunteer, you can see that process here: How to start volunteering with TDAS
Once the paperwork is complete, then we will offer a series of training sessions.
We will arrange appointment times, days and locations that is mutually agreed.
We will then send over some details of the person you will be supporting and you will be able to contact the person to arrange the first appointment.
You will then have regular 1 to 1 appointments with that person to have the opportunity to support them.
Throughout the journey of Volunteering you will have access to regular 1 to 1 supervision with the Volunteer Coordinator.
Throughout the journey of Volunteering, you will have access to regular 1 to 1 supervision with the Volunteer Coordinator.
Please be aware this role is for people enrolled in a Level 2 or 3+ counselling course or a trained practitioner. TDAS does not offer clinical supervision at this time.
Current Availability: **0 spaces**
Commitment: Weekly Meetings
Current Availability: **1 space**
Commitment: Weekly Meetings over 11/12 weeks
The social groups at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service have an important role in bringing smiles and connection. These are opportunities for people who want to help create a warm and friendly atmosphere for those we support.
The social group helpers make a big difference by doing all sorts of things. They welcome people with open arms, making them feel comfortable and included. Imagine walking into a room and having friendly faces greet you – it makes a world of difference!
They're like the hosts of a party, making sure everyone has what they need. They might make teas and coffees, creating a cosy and welcoming environment. Chatting is a big part too – these helpers are good listeners and great talkers. They create conversations that help people feel like they belong and have friends.
Overall, the social group helpers play a big role in making sure everyone feels like they're part of something special. They bring the warmth of friendship to these gatherings, turning them into safe and joyful spaces. It's like spreading happiness and building a strong community, one cup of tea and one friendly chat at a time.
The pattern changing support at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service is all about helping people find their power and change their lives for the better. This special role is for those who want to be part of a life-changing journey with the people we support. The pattern changing supporters do many important things. They're like the friendly faces at the door, welcoming everyone with a smile and making them feel safe and valued. They might also make teas and coffees, creating a cosy atmosphere where everyone can relax and connect.
Talking and listening is key too. Pattern changing supporters have conversations that help people learn and grow. They provide encouragement and understanding, showing that change is possible and that they're not alone on this path.
When they're ready, these supporters can even become facilitators. This means they guide the learning sessions and create a space for sharing and growth. They're like the captains of a ship, helping everyone navigate towards a brighter future. Pattern changing support is like being a beacon of hope.
It's about giving strength to those who want to break free from old patterns and embrace new possibilities. By offering support, understanding, and a helping hand, these supporters make a real difference in the lives of those seeking positive change.
What Happens Next?
What Happens Next?
First reach out to [email protected] to become a TDAS Volunteer, you can see that process here: How to start volunteering with TDAS
Once the paperwork is complete, then we will offer a series of training sessions
You will then be invited to join one of the relevant social groups and meet the team.
First reach out to [email protected] to become a TDAS Volunteer, you can see that process here: How to start volunteering with TDAS
Once the paperwork is complete, then we will offer a series of training sessions, including Pattern Changing Training.
We have 3 weekly Pattern Changing sessions running weekly across Paignton, Torquay and Brixham. They run for a series of 10/12 sessions, once space becomes available, we will arrange a session that is mutually agreed.
The sessions will start with basic support, such as setting up, making tea’s & coffees etc, then over time there will be opportunity to help facilitate sessions if wanted.
Throughout the journey of Volunteering you will have access to regular 1 to 1 supervision with the Volunteer Coordinator.
Throughout the journey of Volunteering you will have access to regular 1 to 1 supervision with the Volunteer Coordinator.