A MAN from Chard has explained why he decided to volunteer for a role in the Route1 advocacy service.

Allan from Chard, who completed his Route 1 Independent Visitor and Advocate training in 2018, said: "Volunteering as an Independent Visitor (IV) and an Advocate has always left me feeling I have received more than I have given.

“With the support of excellent initial training, I have found it possible to play at least a small part in assisting young people; enabling them to find new confidences, methods of expression, and an increased sense of self-worth.

“They have been able to better express their own ‘wishes and feelings’ in an often adult-dominated arena and sometimes develop a relationship with a voluntary ‘Independent Other’ which might not otherwise be available, in a world of ever-changing professional support.

“Volunteering as an IV or as an Advocate involves different roles, yet both have proved to be really rewarding, reminding me that for some, life's journeys are not always easy, but all deserve an opportunity to be assisted; listened to, and enabled; to not only think aspirationally but clarify for themselves what those aspirations actually are.

“Sometimes, these things can be better achieved by a volunteer than by an employee, and can certainly result in periods of fun as well as deep joy and a sense of achievement by and for all involved in the process; that's why I find volunteering in this capacity so rewarding."

The IV and young person undertake a variety of activities together, this can range from going for a coffee and chat, visiting the theatre or football match to exploring new opportunities, skills, hobbies, and experiences.

It is recognised that such activities are fundamental in helping to build resilience and life skills. It is also important for children to be looked after to take part in life outside of the care system.

IVs can also attend a young person’s review meeting as long as the young person agrees with this. Route 1 Advocacy has 68 trained Independent Visitors matched to provide a highly valued service which can be life changing for a vulnerable young person and even for the volunteers themselves.

Building trust, supportive relationships, and friendship sometimes can last many years.

There are children who are waiting for a match with a long-term commitment (visiting twice a month for two years).

A bank of volunteer 126 Route 1 advocates support short-term commitment to a particular child. From April 1 to December 31 2021 advocacy services were offered to 415 children in Somerset.

Additionally, Advocates might help write a letter, make a phone call, or go to a meeting by providing ‘the fast lane to the child’s voice’. Independent Visiting and Advocacy is available to ‘looked after children’ and advocacy is available to all children and young people receiving services from social care in Somerset.

Full training is provided by Route1 Advocacy. Use your life skills and experience to help children & young people whilst receiving high-quality training, making new friends, and becoming part of the Route1 family.

If you would like to consider becoming a volunteer contact route1advocacy@somerset. gov.uk, or call 01749 822 801 to arrange a meeting to explain both roles.