About Children Rights Team Mentoring

The Independent Visitors Service works with children and young people who are looked after by Derbyshire County Council. The aim is to offer the children and young people an independent visitor who will agree to meet with them about once a fortnight for at least a year. The scheme encourages the befriending of this young person and helping them participate in social, educational and leisure activities. Being an independent visitor is both challenging and rewarding, it should be fun for both parties! It is a great opportunity to support children and young people and make an emotional and personal commitment to them through activities, listening and offering advice. Some of the young people will have disabilities and have experienced loss and separation therefore empathy and a willingness to get to know the young person is essential.

The scheme works with vulnerable young people therefore a successful police check is required. The role is voluntary but mileage expenses and an allowance per visit is provided for snacks and activities etc. Training and supervision are provided. As it is an independent service we are unable to accept applications from people who currently work for Derbyshire County Council and have direct contact with children and young people.