What difference can a volunteer make within the Learning Disability Service? 

People with a learning disability can often feel socially isolated and find it difficult to get involved in everyday leisure and social activities such as going to the cinema, going out for a meal, participating in sport, going to the local pub or becoming involved in their local community. 

A “Friendship Scheme” volunteer befriender can make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life of a person who has a learning disability by providing them with ongoing support and giving them encouragement to participate in social and leisure activities of particular interest to them. 

There may be a range of other opportunities to volunteer with adults who have a learning disability.  These could include working within a day service or helping with a group activity.  For information about other opportunities please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator on 0191 566 2391 for an informal discussion about current opportunities. 

Who is referred to the Friendship Scheme?

Adults who have a learning disability and who have little opportunity to become involved in local social and leisure activities. 

Where do referrals to the Friendship Scheme come from? 

Referrals may be made from any of our day and residential services and also from social workers and outreach teams. 

How are Friendship Scheme volunteers matched? 

It is important when a match is set up that all parties feel comfortable and that the right match is made.  A person centred approach is used and matches will be made based on hobbies, interests, age and geographical location to establish the best possible “fit” between a service user and a volunteer.  Please read our frequently asked questions ( pdf 63 kb) for more information about volunteering. 

Apply to be a volunteer             

The application process:  A potential volunteer will complete an initial application form and they will be invited for an informal interview.  Two references are required and a Criminal Records Bureau check is undertaken for all volunteers.  

Find out more about the Criminal Records Bureau www.crb.gov.uk/ 

All volunteers are required to complete an Occupational Health form which is sent to Occupational Health for clearance.  Volunteers will be required to satisfactorily complete a six month probationary period.  

Apply Now 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer you can either download an application pack ( pdf 91 kb) and return it by post or contact us to request a pack. You should also read and complete the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form ( pdf 72 kb).  

Please return completed forms to: 

Volunteer Co-ordinator 
Learning Disability Service 
Broadway House 
Springwell Road 
Sunderland 
SR4 8NW 

Useful website links: 
British Institute of Learning Disabilities www.bild.org.uk 
Criminal Records Bureau www.crb.gov.uk 
Community Service Volunteers www.csv.org.uk 
Job Centre Plus www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk 
MENCAP www.mencap.org.uk 
Volunteering Uk www.volunteering.org.uk
Sunderland People First  www.sunderlandpeoplefirst.org.uk