Independent Visitors (sometimes called IVs) are volunteers who spend time with children in care, offering long-term friendship and support. They are not part of the care system and provide a safe and independent space for young people.
Independent Visitors commit to meeting up with a child at least once a month and for two years, planning activities with the young person and their carers.
Visits are led by the young person. Whether it’s going to the cinema, taking a walk, or enjoying a meal, the goal is to create happy memories together.
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- Children in care have the right to an Independent Visitor
- Independent Visitors offer consistency and support
- Volunteering as an Independent Visitor can be life-changing
- Independent Visitors come from all walks of life
- Matching young people with Independent Visitors
- Helping young people in care get an Independent Visitor
- Becoming an Independent Visitor
Children in care have the right to an Independent Visitor
If a child or young person is under 18, living in care, and wants an Independent Visitor, they have the right to one.
Independent Visitor 'Our Legal Right' Animation (youtube.com)
Please click on these links to find out more about other rights and entitlements that children in care have, and what Surrey County Council offers to care experienced young people who are under 18 and over 18.
Independent Visitors offer consistency and support
Young people in care may experience uncertainty and change. An Independent Visitor is a stable presence—someone to talk to, share experiences with, and have fun. Young people say:
"I’ve tried new things and loved them. My IV and I chat a lot and have lots in common."
"Seeing my IV is fun. I’d be sad if I couldn’t. I want the visits to last forever."
Volunteering as an Independent Visitor can be life-changing
Becoming an Independent Visitor means making a meaningful impact on a young person’s life while having fun together. Independent Visitors benefit from:
- A strong support network
- Induction and safeguarding training
- Monthly peer support meetings
- A dedicated staff contact
- Covered travel and activity expenses
Independent Visitors come from all walks of life
No formal qualifications are needed; just commitment and enthusiasm! Volunteers must:
- Be over 21
- Commit to two years
- Complete training and safeguarding checks
Matching young people with Independent Visitors
When a child or young person and an Independent Visitor start meeting, it’s called a ‘match.’ This can happen at any age before 18, though most children and young people are 10 or older.
Each Independent Visitor is matched with a child based on location, interests, and the young person’s needs. If a match feels right, the Independent Visitor, young person, and an adult who knows the child well, will meet with support from the team.
Independent Visitors commit to being matched with a child for at least two years, but many friendships last well beyond this.
Matches can continue beyond when a young person turns 18, and the Service will support matches until young people are at least 21, if all parties are in agreement. Matches can be supported beyond, this and up to 25 in some cases. Once formal support ends, the Independent Visitor and young person can decide how to stay in touch. Many Independent Visitors continue volunteering for many years, and many matches turn into authentic friendships beyond Surrey Independent Visitor Service involvement.
Helping young people in care get an Independent Visitor
Children and young people in care, or a trusted adult supporting them, can refer them for an Independent Visitor.
Becoming an Independent Visitor
To apply, attend a virtual Open Evening, complete training, and go through the application process. If you're interested, email independentvisitors@surreycc.gov.uk to learn more.
We will be happy to talk more about the role so you can decide whether it is right for you.