Become a befriender in Nottingham
A befriender is someone who volunteers to support children and young people in the care system, acting as a trusted adult and a listening ear. For just one hour a month, they are someone to talk to about anything and everything. It makes a real difference to a young person to know they have someone who has chosen to be there for them. Volunteer today to support children and young people in care in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Hours can change lives
Hours can change lives
A befriender’s main duty is to listen. You’ll be a consistent, positive, encouraging role model in the child or young person’s life, so we ask you to make a long-term commitment to be a befriender – usually a minimum of two years. You can do fun things together or try something new – whatever the young person wants.
This is such a vital role and can make such a difference to a young person’s life. In return, you will gain valuable experience, skills and a sense of achievement. As well as you will receive ongoing training, supervision and support.
So why not do something amazing today by volunteering to become a befriender in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
A word from Jack
A word from Jack
In 2020 Jack volunteered his time to support young people in the Care system. He became a befriender for over 3 years.
"I wasn’t really aware of the number of young people in and around the care system. When you start to unpeel some of the information and look at the statistics, it’s quite harrowing. I think that resonated with me. I thought I could offer something and so I applied.”
“As an Independent Visitor you’re not there to judge or make decisions. You are purely someone that a young person can spend time with, have fun with, talk to.”
“I have a dog, and the boy I was supporting really liked them, so we’d take the dog to a park and kick a football around. It allows them some time out and a positive distraction from what’s going on for them in other aspects of life."
Becoming a befriender
“One of the lovely things about being an Independent Visitor is knowing that something you’re doing is having a huge positive impact on someone else’s life.”
"There is a great sense of wellbeing that you get from it. I just think that it is one of the most rewarding things."
If you have some time and you think you could, you probably should.
Get in touch
You can call us on 0808 196 8422 or email us at nottinghambefrienders@childrenssociety.org.uk.
Also, our address is: Nottingham Befrienders Castle Cavendish Dorking Road Nottingham NG7 5PN
We couldn’t do what we do without our incredible volunteers. From running our shops, or keeping campaigns alive, to becoming a befriender. No matter what you choose, you will be joining an inspiring community focused on giving young people a brighter future.
Find out how you can become a befriender in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire here.
