News
Changing lives...through befriending
Friday 22 May 2009
It's great to have someone you enjoy spending time with, who'll stick up for you and who will always be on your side. However, for some children that kind of support is thin on the ground and that's why we extend a helping hand to children who lack the attention and support many of us take for granted.
Our six bfriends services - four in Edinburgh and one in East Lothian and North Ayrshire - offer support to young people living in difficult circumstances, who are in danger of becoming isolated at school or in their communities and who are at risk of bullying or of getting into trouble. Young people are matched up with a trained adult volunteer who provides a positive role model and supportive figure in their lives.
Our bfriends volunteers develop supportive and stable one-to-one relationships with some of these isolated and vulnerable young people giving them access to positive experiences and opportunities that many children and young people take for granted.
Each week the young person and their volunteer decide together what they will do, providing opportunities to experience new activities which broaden the young person's horizons and build their confidence. Each service has a base where volunteers and young people can meet to play games, cook, do arts and crafts, read or listen to music. Accessing local opportunities in the community is also encouraged as is the chance to take part in organised group activities.
Volunteers come from all sections of the community and give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make a positive difference in the life of a young person.
Friendships play a crucial part in all our lives and your donation of just £45 can help towards the training of a volunteer befriender.
Last updated: Wednesday 27 May 2009
