Befriend a young person in London or Kent and change their life.
Anyone can become a Goal 17 volunteer.
Our "Independent Visitor" service matches young people in care with trained volunteers who offer friendship, consistency, and support. We urgently need volunteers and we'd love for you to join us in making a difference!
This service benefits 8 to 25-year-olds who are under the care of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. We also welcome referrals of young people.
Many of us take it for granted — having someone to talk to, to text, to laugh with.
But for young people in care or facing disadvantage, that simple connection can be life-changing.
The steady presence of a kind, consistent adult can bring hope, trust, and stability where it’s needed most. And it doesn’t take much — just a little of your time, and a willingness to care.
At Goal 17, we train and support incredible volunteers to do just that. You don’t need special skills — just a big heart. Whether you’re helping someone plan their future, listening to their worries, or simply spending time together, you can change lives — including your own.
Who are Independent Visitors?
An Independent Visitor (IV) is a volunteer who meets regularly with a young person in care, offering support, listening, and fun. They’re not part of the care system – they’re just there for the young person. Whether it’s grabbing a hot chocolate, visiting a museum, or chatting about life, IVs help build confidence, trust, and happiness.
A consistent adult who chooses to be there.
Someone to talk to who isn’t part of “the system.”
Regular meet-ups that are fun and focussed on the young person.
Long-term support that builds confidence and trust.
Why Your Support Matters:
Watch these short videos to hear directly from young people about the challenges they face — and how volunteers like you make a real difference.
Why it Matters
For Volunteers:
You could be the one consistent adult in a young person’s life – someone they can trust, talk to, and have fun with. It’s not about fixing things; it’s about showing up and being there. We’ll train and support you every step of the way.
For Young People:
Being in care can be lonely. An Independent Visitor is someone who shows up just for you – not because they have to, but because they want to. It’s about having a real connection, building confidence, and feeling heard.
How it Works
For Volunteers:
1. Sign up with Goal 17 and express your interest.
2. Complete training and safeguarding checks.
3. Get matched with a young person.
4. Meet regularly (usually once a month) for fun, relaxed visits.
5. Get support throughout from our expert team.
For Young People / Guardians / Social Workers:
1. Register your interest in the service.
2. We’ll arrange a chat to understand what you're looking for.
3. We'll carefully match the young person with a trained volunteer.
4. They meet up regularly – it’s all about building trust and friendship.
Who Can Sign Up?
For Volunteers:
- Over 18
- Friendly, reliable, and a good listener
- Ready to commit around 2-4 hours per month for at least two years
- No experience needed – full training and ongoing support is provided
For Young People / Guardians / Social Workers:
- Aged 8 to 25 and in the care of the Royal Borough of Greenwich
- Referred by a social worker or carer, or can refer themselves
This programme is being operated by Goal 17 Ltd in partnership with The Royal Borough of Greenwich and Wowment Ltd. By registering as a volunteer you are agreeing to be contacted by Goal 17. We take your privacy very seriously and will not share your details with anyone else other than our direct partners in delivering this programme. Our full privacy policy can be viewed here.