I thoroughly enjoyed the training, especially when we heard current befrienders experiences. It was really helpful to hear of their ideas/activities for future matches. I really enjoyed every session, very relaxed and welcoming.
- Befriender
I enjoyed the training sessions, they are very interesting, no feelings of pressure and it was enjoyable throughout.
- Befriender
Evaluation question. We continually endeavour to maintain high standards, we would value your comments – positive or negative on our service and any suggestions on ways the Project could be improved/developed.
As ever I continue to be proud to be part of such a worthwhile, well run voluntary service.
- Befriender
Evaluation Question: Now that the befriending match has come to an end, what changes have you seen in your young person if any?
D has become more outgoing since first meeting with him. He appeared to enjoy being included in group activities and meeting others of the same ages which increased his self confidence. Spending time on a one to one basis was especially important because it was time just for him.
- Befriender
I found the volunteer coordinators to be brilliant. Always willing to give excellent advice and are always there when needed. All group activities were well planned. This is a brilliant service, long may it continue for all the great work everyone does for the young people.
- Befriender
Evaluation Question: Now that the befriending match has come to an end, what changes have you seen in your young person?
- She has become more aware of herself.
- Social interactions have increased. She has made several true friends.
- She has taken control of her actions.
- Lots of discussions have made her more confident.
- She has enjoyed the support in her quest to identify her feelings.
- Befriender
What have you learned about yourself, through being a Befriender?
I am happy around young people and like getting to know them. The experience has been life changing, I really felt I have made a difference in a young persons life.
- Befriender
What do you get from befriending? What motivates you?
Having a laugh, it’s good fun. I feel it does make a difference and it gives my young person a different perspective on the world – some hope for the future.
- Befriender
Evaluation Question: Now that the befriending match has ended, what changes have you seen in the young person you were matched with?
I have seen her over the last year become more confident socially. She is still a quiet, shy individual but this is no longer so debilitating that it is holding her back from participating in life. Befriending came at a good time as she was making more friends at school and both have helped enormously.
- Befriender
What do you get from befriending? What motivates you?
I like helping and it really doesn’t take much. It’s good to have an excuse to hang out with a young person. I get a lot of satisfaction, from the one to one time I spend with a child who needs support.
- Befriender
It is fast approaching four years since I began the process of becoming a volunteer befriender. Not everything about returning to Dumfries has turned out as expected, but I remain extremely grateful to have fulfilled this long-held ambition. I still have the leaflet that I first read over a decade ago before moving to Stirling!
Three matches on I’ve made many amazing memories with each of my young people, and even when they don’t say it I know how much it means to them. As someone who works with children in educational and creative settings, I can assure you that this is enjoyable and rewarding in an entirely different way.
I’m happy for anyone interested in Befriending to contact me about my experience, and I only hope that I can convince you to give it a try.
- Befriender
Evaluation Question: Now that the befriending match has come to an end, what changes have you seen in your young person?
He is more outgoing and doing things by himself. He seems to be more confident and relaxed. He has gained various skills over the time of our match that he will be able to use later in life. The whole experience was great, I really enjoy being a befriender.