It is Volunteering Week (2nd – 8th June)! We want to take a moment to celebrate and recognise the incredible contributions of our Route1 Advocacy and Independent Visitor Service volunteers.
Route1 is a small, dedicated team within Somerset Council that recruits, trains and supports volunteers to become Independent Visitors (IVs) or advocates for children and young people. Some staff also volunteer themselves, and being part of the Quality Assurance team helps ensure their independence.
IVs are trusted adult friends for children who are Looked After—often the only adult in their life not paid to be there. These relationships can last for years and offer consistency and care. Advocacy is available to any child with a social worker and is usually short-term, helping ensure their voice is heard when important decisions are made. We are always looking for more volunteers to join our team!
David’s Experience
“Hi, I’m David (on the left of the photo—not the gorgeous blond dog 😊), and being a Route1 Volunteer has been the most rewarding, life-affirming adventure I’ve undertaken. Such a modest commitment for such massive personal gains—jump in, try it. Helping others helps ourselves—so I guess I’m selfish, huh?!”
Suzanne’s Story
“There were two main reasons I applied to be an Independent Volunteer. One, as my own children were becoming adults, I felt I could still contribute to young people’s lives. And two, I had given up my employment in education and missed the interactions with children. The training was over consecutive weekends and, although informative, the fun activities and chatter with new friends made it enjoyable. Even though I’m a couple of years ‘long in the tooth’ as a volunteer, I continue to receive support from my Route1 Coordinator and can always reach out for advice.”
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer or supporting Route1 visit http://www.route1advocacy.co.uk or call 01749 822801. You can also find more about advocacy on Somerset’s SEND Local Offer: http://www.somerset.gov.uk/advice-and-advocacy.
