What does an Independent Visitor do?

An Independent Visitor is just like any other friend, except they are a fully-fledged responsible adult! You can ask your Independent Visitor to help you with anything, or talk to them about what’s on your mind.

Independent Visitors are people with real-life experiences and can be very interesting people to talk to. Sometimes we call them ‘role models’ because they can inspire and motivate you.

They are not paid to spend time with you, they are there because they want to be.

An Independent Visitor will:

• Listen to you about anything – whether it’s a funny story, or something more serious
• Help you during difficult or confusing times
• Support your hobbies and interests, and help you try out new ones
• Take you out to places, such as to the cinema or for a walk
• Be someone you can trust

Your Independent Visitor will have been carefully matched to you based on their hobbies and interests and your own. The most important thing to remember is that they are completely separate from children’s services and the care system. Whatever you say to them is completely confidential, unless there is a concern for your safety.