25 years of asphaleia; 25 reasons to become an independent visitor for children and young people in care

As part of our 25 years of asphaleia celebrations, we are doing a series of posts related to 25 years and wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate a volunteering role we have had for the past eight years.

what is an Independent Visitor?

Becoming an Independent Visitor (IV) is a truly special volunteering opportunity. Independent Visitors are matched with a child or young person in care to offer friendship, support, and fun — someone just for them, outside the care system.

Many young people in care long for a trusted adult who listens, shows up, and cares about them as a person.

Here are 25 reasons why the Independent Visitor role is one of the most rewarding ways to volunteer:

1. Be a consistent, reliable adult in a young person’s life

Children in care often face many changes. Being someone who always shows up can mean the world.

2. Offer a listening ear without judgment

Your role isn’t to assess or manage — it’s to listen, care, and be there.

3. Help rebuild trust

Through the monthly visits and kindness, you can help a young person learn that adults can be dependable.

4. Create fun, happy memories

Simple days out — a walk, a movie, a milkshake — can become moments of joy they’ll always remember.

5. Boost confidence and self-esteem

When a young person feels valued, they begin to see their own worth too.

6. Be a positive role model

You don’t have to be perfect — just genuine, kind, and respectful. That’s enough to inspire.

7. Experience the joy of real friendship

Independent Visiting is about laughter, listening, and connection — not targets.

8. Make a lasting impact

You might not change the whole world, but you can change someone’s world forever.

9. Learn deep empathy and understanding

You’ll gain insight into the resilience, strength, and individuality of young people in care.

10. Be inspired by their strength

You’ll witness courage and determination that can shift your own perspective on life.

11. Give back to your community

Your time and presence strengthen your local community and show that every child matters.

12. Share new experiences together

Bowling, baking, football, or exploring nature — you’ll build shared memories that last.

13. Build communication and mentoring skills

You’ll develop skills that enrich both your personal and professional life.

14. Join a supportive volunteer network

You’ll receive training, supervision, and ongoing support from a friendly team.

15. Bring joy to someone’s week

Just turning up can make a young person’s day brighter.

16. See the world with fresh eyes

Young people have incredible creativity and curiosity — they’ll help you see things differently too.

17. Promote inclusion and equality

Independent Visitors show that care, friendship, and respect are for everyone.

18. Celebrate small wins and big moments

From birthdays to personal milestones, you’ll be there to cheer them on.

19. Be that “someone who cares”

Many young people dream of having one reliable person who’s there because they want to be.

20. Inspire hope and possibility

Your encouragement can help them believe in their own potential.

21. Grow as a person

You’ll become more patient, compassionate, and grateful through the experience.

22. Challenge misconceptions about care

You’ll see firsthand that young people in care are strong, talented, and full of promise.

23. Offer stability amid change

Your regular visits give structure and comfort in times that might feel uncertain.

24. Be part of a positive story

You’ll play a lasting role in someone’s journey toward independence and confidence.

25. Because every child deserves a trusted friend

At its heart, Independent Visiting is about friendship — the simple, powerful act of being there.

final thoughts

Becoming an Independent Visitor isn’t about fixing someone’s life — it’s about showing up, listening, supporting, and believing in them. If you have a few hours a month and a caring heart, you have what it takes to make a real difference.

Find out more: Contact us to learn how to apply and start your journey as a volunteer befriender today.