Have you ever considered befriending? Befriending is a relationship supported by an organisation to enable meaningful connections. It helps reduce loneliness and isolation. It is nurturing, trusting and enriching. Befriending hopes to achieve positive outcomes and prevent negative ones, for individuals and communities.

This is a testimony from a volunteer befriender from Aberlour Children's Charity:

"I started working with Aberlour in 2022, having been out of work for a whilst due to mental health issues . I felt that to improve me mental health and not to feel so isolated that I decided to go down the route of volunteering .

I came across Aberlour online and as my previous employment involved working with children and families and also community work , I felt that Aberlour had the right volunteering opportunities for me and was also looking for a challenge .

What also attracted me to Aberlour was the training and online courses they offered , I have thoroughly enjoyed them and have gained more knowledge which I can use in my volunteering role and future employment , and am studying other qualifications also at present .

I thoroughly enjoy my volunteer mentor role . I look forward to meeting with the family on a weekly basis . I help them to overcome barriers ,give practical help, support and advice . It’s so rewarding when you see the family thriving and moving forward . It’s an extremely rewarding role and has helped me to gain more experience , knowledge and confidence .

One thing I need to mention is that the support I get from my coordinator is amazing . She has been a great help easing me into my volunteer role and I know that she is always there if there are any issues that come up .

I would highly recommend volunteering with Aberlour . They are an amazing charity , helping Scotland’s most vulnerable children , young people and their families."

This volunteer worked with a family but the befriending opportunities available in your community are diverse and come in many forms.

If you like the sound of befriending with Aberlour, head over to their Be the Change profile now!

For more information on Befriending visit befriending.co.uk.

Volunteer Stories

Findlay

Befriending with Aberlour

Volunteer Stories