To support a person with sight loss to safely navigate the environment, building self-confidence and increasing social interaction; whilst maintaining dignity and promoting independence

What does the role involve? 

* Provide sighted guide assistance on a regular basis to people living with sight loss to help them achieve their goals (commonly weekly)

* The lengths of partnerships vary, from 6 weeks to 12months+, your availability will be matched with a suitable customer

* Undertake all elements of My Guide training (approximately 2 days)

* Support access to local services and facilities in their local community

* Provide regular feedback on progress and any issues that arise to your line manager

* Provide the My Guide role at agreed times/location based on the mutually agreed activity plan

* Maintaining professional boundaries and adhering to safeguarding procedures 

Location: Your local community / possible travel to support people out of area

What skills or experience are required?

* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

* Patience and flexibility

* Able to undertake your role safely and effectively

* Act in a non-judgemental way, without discrimination

What will I get out of it?

* Make a life-changing difference to someone in need in your community

* Opportunity to meet and interact with other Guide dogs’ volunteers

* An opportunity to build experience and knowledge of sight loss and

develop your existing skills

* Gain skills and experience whilst doing something that you enjoy

* Build experience and skills while growing your confidence

* Meet people, have fun and be part of your community

* Help a charity do more while you learn what you are good at

* Become a valued and integral part of the Guide Dogs team

* Increasing the independence, dignity and wellbeing of people living

with sight loss through the delivery of the My Guide service 

What support / training will I get?

* 1 day Sighted Guide Training and certificate upon completion of training

* Guide Dogs safeguarding training

* Payment of out of pocket expenses in line with Guide Dogs policy

* An opportunity to take part in any general Guide Dogs volunteer training that is available

* Support, information, training and resources to enable you to undertake your role safely and effectively

Will I need to do a Disclosure check? 

Yes, this role requires that you have an Enhanced Disclosure

This role is managed by: My Guide Ambassador/ My Guide

Volunteer officer/ My Guide Service officer

For more information please contact the North West Volunteer Centre