Befriending is a social rather than professional relationship with a child or young person who needs a positive adult relationship. Through befriending young people can develop self confidence and a greater capacity to form, and maintain, relationships with others. Befriending is - providing one to one support for the young person - listening to a young person and trying to work through their problems - involving the young person in activities such as arts and crafts, games, music and sport - going on trips with the young person, eg swimming, fishing or cimena.
Spending quality time with a young person can be very rewarding. Befrienders are volunteers over the age of 18, from all backgrounds, who are interested in working and helping young people in care.
If you are interested in becoming a befriender contact
chris.mcnaught@crossreach.org.uk, tel 01360 440244. After this, a member of Ballikinrain staff will meet you over a number of visits to discuss befriending. We will learn a bit about you, your interests, experience and what you might offer the young person. Following these discussions, if you are still interested, you will be asked to complete an application form and supply referees for us to contact. Your suitability will also be checked with national records. You will be appointed a member of staff to act as your advisor and to support you through the befriending relationship. All expenses will be paid.
