Are you passionate about investing in ‘at risk’ young people? Do you want to be part of enabling transformation in the lives of young people who are caught up in crime, violence, and risk-taking behaviour? Could you provide 2 hours a week?

Starting Point is launching a volunteer Navigators scheme within The Royal Berkshire Hospital’s A&E department in Reading.

Navigators provide one-to-one support for young people (13-25) in A&E who are involved in violence or risk-taking behaviour, helping them to access ongoing support within the wider community.

In partnership with the Royal Berkshire Hospital and the Thames Valley Police we are recruiting, training, and equipping volunteers who are able to offer relational, tailored and holistic support in a time of crisis. Providing a friendly face and listening ear, then enabling the young person to access ongoing support in their wider community.

What does being a Navigator involve?

• Outreach support in A&E – Each navigator is put on a weekly rota for 2 hours outreach within A&E, engaging with young people identified by the hospital staff. This is primarily evenings but does also include daytime outreach. – Each volunteer’s availability is taken into account in scheduling the rota.
• Completing assessments and evaluation – Both during and after meeting a young person in A&E there are simple tools and assessments for each Navigator to complete. – Training will be provided.
• Following up with each Young Person – This includes calls and texts and/or meeting up with the young person within the community or at our centrally based Mentoring Hub.
• Sign-Posting – In initial meetings and follow ups, Navigators will sign-post young people to relevant services locally. This may include completing a referral with a young person.
• Completing ongoing paperwork – Along with YP assessments and evaluations, Navigators complete logs on each Young Person met in A&E.

Role requirements and experience:
Essential:

• Able to work within a high intensity environment – A&E
• Good communication skills
• Active listening skills
• Flexibility
• Reliable
• Non-judgmental

Desirable:

• Previous experience of supporting young people with complex needs.
• Understanding of Trauma Informed Practice
• PC literate
• Resourceful – able to find information / access services.

The support Navigators provide has the potential to have a transformational impact on the lives of local young people in Reading, Wokingham and West Berkshire! Could you play a part?