We all need supportive and caring relationships to thrive‍

intandem is Scotland’s national mentoring programme, with Befriend a Child being one of 12 charities nationally to support young people aged 7-15 years old who are involved in the care system. The programme, funded by the Scottish Government and The Robertson Trust, specifically supports young people who are living at home supported by social work or living with extended family in kinship care.

Young people can become involved with the care system when parents struggle to navigate tough times. This could be due to chronic illness, substance use, mental health problems or a death in the family – all things that can make it harder to give young people the best care and support.

Young people are referred to us through social work and we match them with a volunteer mentor. Having a consistent, caring mentoring relationship can help young people develop confidence, improve their wellbeing and build resilience, giving them the foundation they need to build strong relationships in the future while overcoming challenging experiences from their past.

We are always looking for volunteers who are reliable, compassionate and kind, to support young people when they need it the most. Our volunteer mentors spend 2-3 hours twice a month with their young person enjoying activities and outings in the community which are goal-focused and child-led. Mentors provide a trusted, stable presence in the lives of young people, encouraging them to grow and reach their potential. Full training and support is provided for all volunteers.

Olivia, Senior intandem Co-ordinator explains “The young people in our mentoring programme just need that trusted and reliable adult role model who will listen, engage with them and help them to reach goals they didn’t think they would achieve”

If you would like to enquire about becoming a volunteer mentor, please visit www.befriendachild.org.uk/how-we-help/intandem-mentoring or reach out to Olivia (Senior intandem Co-ordinator) at email: o.polak@befriendachild.org.uk for more details.