Enthusiastic buddies wanted!

One-size-fits-all?

Michelle aged 17 is looking for a buddy to go shopping and grab a terrace with. Ayla, 26, would like to do fun things with someone her own age. Yara aged 42 is looking for a buddy to teach her the Dutch language. Evelien aged 18 would like to go motorcycling or work on the farm with someone.

Unfortunately, we don't just pull out a can of buddies for clients who need one. A buddy is not a one-size-fits-all either: every client has different needs when it comes to a buddy, but they have one thing in common: they would like to gain healthy contacts, something Fier's target group can be helped with. That is why we are always looking for people who want to do this special kind of voluntary work: one-to-one contact with people who have been victims of violence in dependency relationships.

So what does it mean to be a buddy? Basically, it just means that you are there for someone, just as you are there for your own friends. You go out together to do something, from walking to horse riding to shopping. In that, you are also matched with a client: if you like going out on a terrace and there is a client looking for someone to do something like that with, you will be matched.

Or are you crazy about language? Then there are also clients who would like to improve their Dutch while doing fun things. 100 per cent match!

WE OFFER YOU:

• You can join Fier's staff association, which organises fun activities once in a while.
• You will receive support from the mentors.
• You get a Christmas package.
• You get a gift on your birthday.
• You will be given a volunteer contract for an indefinite period of time.

Fier is the national expertise and treatment centre in the field of violence in dependency relationships. We offer help to victims, witnesses and perpetrators of violence that takes place in relationships. Fier combines specialised care in a safe/protective environment with a knowledge function (development, innovation and research function). Our areas of expertise are domestic violence, child abuse, honour-related violence, human trafficking and loverboy problems, (early childhood) traumatisation, sexual violence, fighting divorce/high-risk divorce and elder abuse.

What is really important to know if you want to work for Fier and what do you need to consider when connecting with Fier?

Vulnerable target group

Fier's clients are a very vulnerable target group. They are often severely traumatised by violence in one or several dependency relationships. This can be domestic violence, loverboys, forced prostitution, emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Often all kinds of issues have been in play for a long time, since childhood, and clients are therefore trapped in a circle of violence and dependency. This requires a great deal of understanding and empathy from you as a volunteer, but also the ability to be able to protect yourself emotionally and leave things that may come up with the other person.

Keeping commitments/being reliable

Fier's clients have faced disappointment, broken promises, unfulfilled agreements, being let down many times in their lives. You as a volunteer can mean a lot by keeping the agreements you make with a client. Saying what you do and doing what you say. That creates trust and is the basis of every relationship, which is incredibly valuable for these girls and women. Being able to count on someone and thereby learning for yourself how that works in a relationship.

Role of volunteer

At Fier, we have many specialised practitioners and social workers, who work together in teams to support and guide our clients in dealing with their traumas. Therefore, we do not expect this role from you as a volunteer. However, as a volunteer, you can spot things and give feedback to the client's mentor, with whom you are in direct contact. You can also always contact the volunteer coordinator with concerns or questions.

Empowerment

Fier's most important mission is to empower our clients. Helping them take a step further in their development and self-confidence each time, so that they can eventually stand on their own two feet and fulfil their role in society as powerful people. And can thus pass this on to the next generation! All therapists and supervisors within Fier work very hard on this and the volunteers also play a crucial role in this. You are there to help the client grow and flourish, in whatever way that is shaped. Every little step towards independence helps!

Recognisable?

Do you recognise yourself as a person in this? Would you like to contribute to breaking the circle of violence and dependency by helping Fier's clients develop and grow towards their own greatest strength with your support, knowledge and talents? Then sign up as a volunteer!