Independent Visitors give friendship and fun to young people between the ages of 8 and 17 years old who are looked after by the local authority and who will not be returning home.
They are volunteers from our local community who enjoy spending time with young people. They are there to support, listen and advise you, but most importantly to have fun - they are there just for you!
We match someone with you who we think you’ll get on well with. They will visit you once a month, building a friendship and doing things with you which you enjoy. This might include:
- going for a bike ride
- having a chat over a hot chocolate
- watching a film together
- visiting a museum
- doing sports together, like football, swimming or basketball
- doing crafts together.
Most visits take place at weekends or in school holidays when you are free.
How to get an Independent Visitor
If you are a child we care for, aged between 8-17 years old and would like to have an Independent Visitor, talk to your social worker, carer or Conference Reviewing Officer (CRO) and ask them to make a referral (see below). Alternatively, you can contact us by email for more information.
We will try and match you as soon as possible, but you may need to go on a waiting list.
Refer a child or young person for an Independent Visitor
This needs to be authorised by their social worker.
Referral for WSCC Professionals (external link) Referral for Non-WSCC Professionals (external link)Further information
Find out more about Independent Visitors.