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Home Support Together

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Home Support Together is a homelessness prevention programme delivered by us. It supports residents who may be at risk of losing their tenancy to keep their home, build confidence, and stay connected to their community.

Volunteer Mentors play a vital role by offering friendly, practical, and emotional support that helps prevent tenancy breakdowns.

What Volunteer Mentors do

Volunteer Mentors are matched with a resident who may need a bit of extra support to manage day-to-day life and stay in their home. Support is non-judgemental, relationship-based and tailored to the individual.

As a Volunteer Mentor, you may:

  • offer regular, friendly check‑ins (in person or by phone)
  • help residents understand their tenancy responsibilities
  • support simple budgeting, bill management and household routines
  • encourage attendance at appointments and engagement with services
  • help reduce loneliness and isolation by signposting to local activities
  • support confidence, motivation and problem‑solving skills

You will work with clear boundaries and safeguarding guidance, with ongoing support from a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator.

Who can volunteer

We are looking for people who are:

  • friendly, patient and non-judgemental
  • good listeners and reliable
  • respectful of confidentiality and diversity
  • willing to learn and follow safeguarding guidance

You do not need housing or support work experience to volunteer.

You must be:

  • aged 18 or over
  • willing to complete an enhanced DBS check (provided free of charge)

Time commitment

The time commitment is around 2 to 4 hours per week, with a minimum commitment of 6 months to provide consistency. Support usually takes place on a weekly basis, at a time agreed between the resident and the Volunteer Mentor.

What we provide

As a Volunteer Mentor, you will receive:

  • full induction and safeguarding training
  • ongoing learning opportunities
  • regular supervision and support from a Volunteer Coordinator
  • travel expenses paid, where appropriate
  • peer support with other volunteers
  • the opportunity to gain valuable experience and references

Why volunteer for Home Support Together

Volunteer Mentors help to:

  • support tenancy sustainment
  • reduce loneliness and isolation
  • improve wellbeing and confidence
  • strengthen local communities
  • prevent homelessness

Your time and support can make a lasting difference to someone's ability to stay safely housed.

How to get involved

If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Mentor with Home Support Together, complete the application form and send it to volunteering@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.

Alternatively, you can call us on 01202 093 315.

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