Scott was referred to Befriend a Child due to social isolation, low self-esteem and confidence, behavioural challenges, and his experiences of domestic violence. Having had no contact with his father since he was just 12 months old, following domestic abuse towards his mum, Scott had grown up without a consistent male figure in his life. His mum continues to live with the impact of a head injury affecting her memory, and alongside Scott’s grandma, they form a very close and supportive family unit. However, this dynamic also meant Scott found it extremely difficult to separate from them.
Scott experienced significant separation anxiety, struggled to attend school, and was eventually home schooled. As a result, he spent most of his time at home with his mum and grandma, rarely engaging with other children and often relying on the comfort of familiar adults, particularly female figures. His world had become very small, and opportunities to build confidence, independence and social skills were limited.
When Scott was first matched with his befriender Theo in December 2024, it understandably took a little time for him to settle. Despite this, he showed a willingness to go out, even if only for short periods. In the early days, outings would last around an hour, with Scott gravitating towards quieter, low-pressure activities such as going for a hot chocolate, completing puzzle books, or spending time in the Befriend a Child media room.
As the relationship developed, so did Scott’s confidence. Small steps led to bigger milestones. A trip to the cinema to watch one of his favourite films, Sonic, was an early breakthrough, although he wasn’t quite able to sit through the full film at first. With Theo’s patience and reassurance, Scott gradually built up his tolerance, and now he can comfortably sit through an entire film.
What once felt like a challenge has now become routine. Scott is happy to spend 3–4 hours out with Theo, without asking to go home, and has begun to embrace a much wider range of activities. From visits to the driving range and bowling, to attending larger, busier events like the Befriend a Child Christmas Party and a Hot Wheels show at P&J Live, these experiences that once felt out of reach are now part of his world.
This progress is particularly significant given that at the start of the match, these types of group environments would not have been recommended for Scott. With Theo’s steady support, encouragement and presence, Scott has developed the confidence to step into new spaces, interact with others, and simply enjoy being a child.
The impact of having a consistent, positive male role model in Scott’s life cannot be overstated. Theo is the only male figure Scott has, and through this relationship, Scott is learning to trust, engage and build a meaningful connection. He shows this in small but powerful ways, thanking Theo after every outing, showing respect and clearly valuing their time together.
Theo reflects on the journey they’ve taken together:
“I have seen a significant difference in Scott. Our outings have progressed from an hour long, quiet activity, to 3–4 hours doing a mix of group activities, busier activities and being further away from home. I was quite nervous initially taking Scott out but we have both relaxed into the befriending so well.”
Scott’s mum has also seen a remarkable change:
“Scott is coming on leaps and bounds and his confidence, especially being away from the family home, has grown tremendously. I really appreciate how kind, gentle and patient Theo is and honestly Befriend a Child couldn’t have picked a better match for Scott.”
For Scott, this match has opened up a world beyond his home, creating opportunities to build independence, develop social skills, and experience things many children take for granted. Just as importantly, it has given him the chance to see a male figure in a positive, consistent and trusting light.
Through shared experiences, patience and genuine care, Theo is helping Scott reshape his understanding of relationships, build confidence in himself, and create lasting, positive memories, just for the two of them. If you would like to provide life changing support for an another local boy, we would love to hear from you! Our waiting list is rising and we need more males to step forward, if that could be you, reach out to volunteer@befriendachild.org.uk today.