Befriend A Child - Changing Lives

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Changing Lives

Just A Little Time

Jordan is 10 years old and his befriender has been in place for 2.5 years. Jordan was referred to the Organisation due to lack of self esteem. Jordan has seen many changes in his life, his father leaving, moving house and changing schools. Jordan was placed on the Child Protection register due to emotional neglect. Jordan is the oldest of 4 children and was often the scapegoat by his mum for things his siblings did. Over the past 2.5 years activities have included walks in the forest or on the beach with the volunteer and her dog while enjoying the company of the dog this also gives Jordan the opportunity to walk and talk about things that may be bothering him both at home and at school. Things are still difficult for Jordan. Recently one of his siblings was accommodated Jordan really misses him. Jordan is not allowed to talk about his brother or even go into his bedroom. Jordan’s volunteer is always there to praise him for the achievements he has done at school or when playing football for his local team. Jordan’s confidence has been boosted with the activities they have done and is always willing to try new things and always asks what he can do next. Jordan tried sand surfing on one occasion and the smile on his face told how much he was enjoying himself.

Paying Attention Pays Dividends

Louise is 11 years old and has had her befriender for 4 ½ years. Louise was referred to Befriend A Child due to Mums lack of parenting skills and requiring additional support with regard to difficulties when dealing with her older sibling. She was being bullied at home by her sibling who in turn was also receiving a variety of services to assist in her ongoing problems. It was felt that Louise was being left out of having a positive adult role model in her life as mum is a single parent and most of her attention was going to her sibling.

During the past 4 ½ years, Louise’s activities have included frequent visits to the swimming pool, visits to the park, numerous trips to use the Base Unit and take part in the group sessions. She has gone along to the Summer Outings and the Christmas and Halloween parties and her befriender has seen how her confidence has grown and how she is beginning to develop.

She is now very chatty and keen to do other things and even suggests places to go. She has been taught some social skills and now says please and thank you and uses cutlery when out for a meal as oppose to her fingers. She is also willing to try new foods. She has seen such a difference in her that she feels her role is complete and intends to finish befriending Louise when Louise reaches 12 years of age. She will however keep in touch with her.