Home Buddy Scheme Procedure for Becoming a CheckIn Buddy
Steps to Becoming a CheckIn Works Volunteer Buddy
  1. The interested individual will be given an information leaflet and an opportunity to arrange an informal discussion (informal interview) about Buddying, expectations, volunteer role and skills required with the CheckIn manager.
  2. If they are still interested they will be asked to complete and return a Buddy application form. At this stage the requirement of an Enhanced Disclosure will be discussed. The prospective Buddy will be encouraged to raise and discuss any questions and concerns he/she may have about this.
  3. On the basis of the information in the completed application form and any concerns that are raised by this, the CheckIn manager will, if necessary, invite the candidate for a more formal ‘pre-training’ interview where any questions about the candidate’s motivation, expectations, suitability and/or experience can be discussed. If necessary, a second interviewer will be invited to participate at this stage.
  4. If at this early stage (after steps 1-3 above) the candidate is deemed to be a potentially suitable individual for Buddying, they will be advised of the start date of the next Buddy preparation programme. A letter of invitation will be issued with details of the course and its content.
  5. On successful completion of the preparation programme (appropriate participation, demonstration of sound value base and regular attendance) the individual will be invited attend an interview (with the CheckIn manager and, if necessary, a second interviewer such as a Trustee).
  6. If successful the new Buddy will receive a welcome to CheckIn Works and be presented with a Certificate of Achievement.
  7. New Buddies will, at this stage, undergo the Enhanced Disclosure check, and will not be asked to undertake support activities until a satisfactory result has been established and two satisfactory references received by the charity.
  8. The new Buddy will now be offered an induction with CheckIn Works and suitable opportunities for Buddying will be explored.
  9. Supervision, support and training will be offered to the Buddy on an ongoing basis
  10. In 2010, it became the policy of CheckIn Works to require all Buddies to undergo additional training (within 12 months of the induction) in Health & Safety, Basic First Aid, Equality & Diversity, and Protection of Vulnerable Individuals.
  11. Buddies will be encouraged to attend ongoing training sessions in mental health and disability awareness, understanding challenging behaviour, risk assessment, and recording client progress.