Nepacs Independent Visitor Service

Nepacs Independent Visitor (IV) Service is a befriending scheme for children and young people aged 8 to 17 years who are looked after by the local authority.

The role of an Independent Visitor (IV)

Independent visitors are adult volunteers that visit and befriend a child or young person that are currently 'looked after' by the local authority. They are not paid and are choosing to spend time and build up a relationship with the child or young person they are matched with. All volunteers will be subject to enhanced DBS checks.

Children and young people in care have often experienced trauma and a lack of consistent adult relationships. The IV may be one of the constant positive adults they have in their life.

The IV is a unique role as the adult is matched with a particular child or young person to visit them once a month, build a positive relationship, spend time together doing things which the child or young person enjoys. This can be going for a bike ride, having a chat over a hot chocolate, watching a film together, visiting a museum - whatever the child is interested in and wants to do. Most visits naturally take place at weekends or in school holidays when children are free.

Contact Nepacs

To find out more about the Independent Visitor Service please contact the freephone helpline on:

0800 012 1539
Email [email protected] or [email protected]

www.nepacs.co.uk (opens new window)

About Nepacs

Nepacs is a north east charity with over 140 years of history. It supports children and young people in the care system or those affected by adverse childhood experiences. Their mission is to ensure a positive future for families in need of support.