Children’s Befriending
Emotional support for children
If your child requires support with their social and emotional development, our Children's Befriending service delivers ways to build their self-esteem and communication skills.
At the beginning of the process, children and young people are encouraged to share their thoughts, interests and views before being matched with a volunteer Children’s Befriender. Once matched, children and their befriender meet every two weeks where they spend time together on outings across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
If your child is nervous about trying new things, our Children’s Befriending service encourages them in a compassionate way. Children are supported to talk about their feelings, try new foods and most importantly have fun! Children who receive support through our befriending service can:
develop social-emotional skills.
increase their sense of belonging and connection.
learn life skills.
build resilience.
“The Children’s Befriending service has been transformative. Through these outings, our patients gain confidence, improve self-esteem, build resilience and often learn life skills along the way.”
Paediatric Immunology Nurse, Royal Hospital for Children and Young People
FAQs
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Our volunteer Children’s Befrienders support children and young people aged 5-18 years old.
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Matching your child depends on prioritisation and finding them the right volunteer. If we can’t match them quickly, we’ll help you explore other support options and continue working with you individually as a parent or carer.
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All activities are in person, with outings designed to grow children’s confidence and increase their access to activities, so they can develop interests and discover new things. This can include trips to museums, ceramic painting studios, cafes, and more!
Send us an enquiry to access support through our Children’s Befriending service.