Steven first became involved with Befriend a Child when he was matched with a young boy, supporting him for two years until their match ended in 2021 due to circumstances beyond everyone’s control. After taking a short break, Steven felt ready to return and continue making a difference, which led to him being matched with Louis, a 14-year-old who had been referred due to experiencing social isolation, low self-esteem, and the challenges of navigating life with neurodivergence and selective mutism.

After being matched in January 2024, Steven approached the match with patience and understanding. Reflecting on their early outings, he shared, “Louis has let his walls come down over the course of the last 12 months. It’s clear now that he’s comfortable and happy in my company.” Initially, Louis communicated mostly through nods, smiles, and the occasional word, but as their relationship developed, his comfort in Steven’s company grew.

Their adventures together have been a series of new experiences for Louis. Many of the activities were things he had never done before or only tried when he was too young to remember. From trips to the cinema and thrilling games of pool to a train journey to Stonehaven, where Louis filled his phone with videos from the window, each outing became an opportunity for Louis to explore the world beyond his usual routine. “He loved the train trip,” Steven recalled. “He used up all the storage on his phone taking videos out the window!”

They’ve shared countless memorable experiences: bowling, trampolining, the circus, and even the excitement of a football match. Louis particularly enjoyed visits to Hazlehead Park and Pets Corner, where his fondness for animals shone through. More adventurous outings included go-karting, gaming sessions, and exploring Dunnottar Castle. “Many of the things we have done he has only ever done when he was too young to remember, or hasn’t tried at all,” Steven noted. “We get to take our time together, and I can ask Louis about his experience and tailor it depending on how he’s finding it.”

At the Befriend a Child Christmas party, Louis initially stayed close to his sibling but, with encouragement, joined in a game alongside Steven. “Louis can be tentative with trying some new things, but generally finds it easier if I go first,” Steven explained. This patient approach has allowed Louis to gradually step out of his comfort zone and try new experiences with growing confidence.

One of the standout moments for Steven came during a recent outing: “I was taken off guard by how verbal Louis was. He told me he could smell BBQ in the air and chatted about things he liked on a BBQ. He even told me about a video he’d watched on YouTube about animals, linking it to our activity that day. It felt like a significant sign of him being happy to express himself around me.”

Beyond the fun, their outings have had a tangible impact on Louis’s independence and self-esteem. His mum proudly shared that Louis recently managed to travel to a friend’s house and take the bus home by himself, a big step that she believes was made possible thanks to the confidence he’s built through his time with Steven. Importantly, there have been no behavioural difficulties during their outings, and Louis consistently shares positive feedback about their adventures, even when things aren’t quite what he expected.

For Steven, the experience has been deeply rewarding. He values the moments where Louis expresses his preferences and engages in reflection during their outings. “Louis being neurodivergent, I don’t anticipate him to suddenly change who he is,” Steven reflected. “But he certainly seems to be doing really well to adapt and engage. He doesn’t shy away from things, just needs some support when interacting with others or trying new things.”

Steven’s dedication to his role as a befriender was recognised when he was nominated and won Volunteer of the Year at the Celebrate Aberdeen Awards, celebrating his commitment to Louis and the charity.

Their journey together is a shining example of the transformative impact of one-to-one support and the power of patience, understanding, and shared experiences. Louis’s growing confidence and willingness to engage with the world around him reflect the strength of the bond he and Steven have built, and the journey they continue to share.