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.
- Befriender
Do you feel Befriending has benefited the young person?
I consider her mental health to have improved and on the whole, she is more robust and able to deal with her problems. She has gained confidence in communicating with her teachers and peers, which hopefully will continue into the next school year. I consider the Befriending service to provide a highly worthwhile support mechanism for young people and their families.
- Befriender
Befriending has given my young person the opportunity to get out of the house and be involved in more group/social activities. He has gained confidence in group situations but still likes his own company too.
- 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 ended, what changes have you seen in the young person you were matched with?
I see a greater confidence in him. He is a lot more ‘chatty’ and ready to join in activities. He is willing to volunteer and become a great team player. The relationship with mum has improved. I have really enjoyed the match.
- Befriender
I learned I’m also a bit like my young person. That’s why we didn’t get on each other’s nerves!
- Befriender
Evaluation question. Now that the befriending match has ended, what changes have you seen in the young person you were matched with?
“Communication and openness improved. She talks about everything that’s going on. She lights up when I talk to her about sports. In the last couple of months she came out of the house independently. She was always ready.”
- Befriender
Do you feel Befriending has benefited your young person?
“Yes, I would say that she has made improvements in many areas. She has improved in confidence which has allowed her to become more sociable and reduced anxiety. Her communication with mum is better, she realises when she might be in the wrong and to apologise to her mum. She appreciated that her mum cares a lot and worries about her.”
- Befriender
Do you feel befriending has benefited the young person?
“I saw the change within the first few weeks. His outlook and his demure became more open and relaxed.”
- Befriender
I’ve been a befriender for two years now and it’s one of the best things I ever decided to do. I highly recommend it to anyone who would like to be a positive influence in a young person’s life, and am glad to talk about my experience.
- Befriender
As someone who has completed a few hours a week for a few years I can tell you volunteering will also make a real difference to your life. Being a Befriender has enriched my world and certainly given me hours and hours of pleasant experiences; enabling me to interact with young people in a positive way for them and myself. You also have fun. A win win situation.
- Befriender
My Volunteer Coordinator has been marvellous in her support. Befriending staff in general are very supportive. Courses are excellent and beneficial. Some fantastic outings have been arranged.