COVEY Befriending (Community Volunteers Enabling Youth)

One to one befriending

Volunteer befrienders have regular outings with a young person. Our services have been targeted towards those young people in greatest need and we work closely with Social Work Resources, Integrated Children's Services, Psychological Services and local schools to respond to referrals.

Young people referred to us will be experiencing some difficult circumstances in their lives and would be considered to benefit potentially from the support of a consistent, reliable, one to one befriending relationship. Some young people would be deemed at risk of abuse or neglect, affected by difficult family circumstances, bereavement, poverty, isolation, substance misuse or mental health problems.

The benefit we have seen as a result of the development of a consistent and reliable adult relationship includes the following:

increased self esteem through the provision of a trusting, supportive relationship
the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities
the development of new skills
increased use of community facilities
a reduction in social isolation
the alleviation of stress levels within the home environment

"My befriending makes me happy - very, very happy" L (aged 10)

"Sometimes things can be hard for me and I get angry but my befriending helps me control my temper" N (aged 13)

"The young person has reported to me that she is at her happiest when she is with her befriender. The befriender's support is crucial" DT (Social Worker)

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