Become a visitor

• Attend medical and other appointments
• Get the right legal advice
• Find his or her way around local transport and facilities
• Find a class to learn English, or link with a SWVG teacher
• Apply for educational grants

or accompanying them, for example to court hearings.

Although the role can be a demanding and sometimes daunting , many find it hugely fulfilling. It requires:

• About an hour a week with the client, plus time for preparation, follow-up, seeking advice and support meetings – usually about 4 hours a week
• The ability to work both as a member of a team and also on your own initiative
• Good communication skills
• Practical problem-solving skills
• The ability to maintain confidentiality
• A degree of emotional resilience

To become a Visitor you have to undertake our training. We offer a wealth of support including:

• Comprehensive initial training
• Web-site material for ongoing reference
• Support and advice from the Coordinators and from an experienced colleague who acts as mentor and backup visitor
• Regular visitors’ support meetings for problem-solving and sharing knowledge and experiences
• SWVG meetings on topical issues approximately every two months
• Opportunities for ongoing training and to attend conferences as required

If you’d like to apply to be a volunteer visitor, here’s the SWVG Volunteer Application Form. Fill it in and send it to info@SWVG-refugees.org.uk

Read about the experience of some of our visitors

 Pages in this section:

Get involved

Become a visitor

Join one of our groups

Become a friend

Make a donation