What is an Ally?
CSV works in partnership with local authority social services departments to provide independent visitors for looked after children. We call them ‘Allies’. Projects currently exist in Islington, Hounslow, Bristol and Derby with more projects in the pipeline.
'Looked after children' are children currently in the care of the local authority because their own family cannot look after them. They may be in foster care or accommodated in a children's home. Some of these children lose all contact with their family and have no special adult in their life who can spend time with them individually. Allies act as friends, informal mentors, advisors and role models.
They spend a few hours each week with a looked after child or young person, taking them out, talking to them, introducing them to new activities and having fun. They also help the young person to speak up for him/herself.
Who can be an Ally?
An Ally is no ordinary volunteer! You need exceptional staying power - the demands are considerable but the rewards can be immense.
Allies are people of all ages from 18 up and from all walks of life.
To become an Ally you must be committed and reliable and prepared to accept a young person as he or she is. You must be able to understand the difficulties faced by looked after children and have the ability to nurture a trusting and respectful relationship with a vulnerable young person.
How much time does it take?
Allies usually meet up with their young person for a few hours each week for at least a year but the frequency of visits needs to fit in with the young person’s circumstances.
Some volunteers meet up with their young person over many years and provide a very special source of friendship and support. We also ask Allies to attend support group meetings every four to six weeks. Here they can meet up with other volunteers and exchange ideas and concerns.
How can I get involved?
If you are interested in becoming an Ally, contact any of the Project Coordinators listed. If it seems right for you, you will be invited to an interview and then, if appropriate, to a training programme.
Checks are made with the Criminal Records Bureau and with local authority records. All this can take some time so if you want to be an Ally you may need to be patient but the wait can be well worthwhile.