Do you know anybody who would like to do voluntary work for 2 or 3 hours a week with perhaps one of the most rewarding groups of people around - adults with learning disabilites? If so - or if you would simply like to find out more about such opportunities - you might like to come along to an informative talk by the FALCON Project on Wednesday 19 July, Volunteering Highland, Millburn Road, Inverness, at 7pm.

Ultimately we are keen to meet anyone who would like to give 2 or 3 hours a week to helping out as a volunteer, however you might know somebody who would just like to have a think about it to begin with?

Initially we are looking for "volunteer buddies" - who work one-to-one with the person with learning disabilities on a work/volunteering placement.  (See below for more details about one-to-one buddying.)

However we also have some very lively evening activities - a drama group, an art group, a music group and a keep fit group.

If you're interested to know more, or if anyone would like to ask a bit more about it then please feel free to ring 01463 710411 (Helen) or 01463 711393 (and ask for the FALCON Project).

NB - all travel expenses for volunteers will be re-imbursed

WHAT DOES BEING A BUDDY INVOLVE?

The F.A.L.C.O.N. project aims to assist adults with special needs into meaningful volunteering roles with guidance and supervisions provided by a buddy.

The buddy is a person who volunteers to assist the supported volunteer on their volunteer placement.

These placements occur Monday to Friday over the hours of 9 to 5 so the buddy must be available at these times.

The supported volunteer may have learning, physical or sensory difficulties.

The buddy undertakes the volunteering role alongside the supported volunteer, or trainee.

The buddy also undertakes the training and support of that volunteer. The buddy stays with the trainee until both the placement provider and the buddy are satisfied.

This arrangement remains regardless of time and the buddy will also be available for some time after if the trainee requires further help.

Being a buddy is not a laborious task, but it does require patience, thought and understanding to enable the supported volunteer to receive the full benefits from their volunteering role.

The buddy is given full support and training in areas such as first aid, listening skills, befriending techniques and also extensive boundary training.

The buddy will be reimbursed for any out of pocket expenses.

As a buddy life experiences are the most important thing. If you bring these along we can train you to pass these skills onto a supported volunteer.