A CHARITY needs volunteers to help vulnerable and disadvantaged children take a break from their problems and have fun.
Volunteers from the Friendship Project for Children help kids aged six to 16 take time out from troubles such as bereavement, caring for a parent or disabled sibling, or a lack of self-esteem.
But the charity is struggling to find suitable volunteers – with over 15 children currently on the Rugby and Southam branch’s waiting list.
After reading about the charity in The Observer last year, Jon Gibbons from Rugby got involved – and he has been supporting a teenage boy for almost a year.
After reading about the charity in The Observer last year, Jon Gibbons from Rugby got involved – and he has been supporting a teenage boy for almost a year.He and his young friend now enjoy activities including cycling, racquet sports and preparing meals together, and also attend the project’s events including this year’s trip to Twycross Zoo.
Jon said: “The sense of achieving something with a young person who comes from a background where they don’t get time invested in them is very rewarding for me.
“Simply making a difference in their life, however small, is great to see and makes you feel positive about the time you give as a volunteer.”
“I have felt fully supported by the charity from day one. All of my questions have been answered and there is an excellent level of communication, understanding of people’s situations and lots of good advice on offer.
“If you have a spare couple of hours a week and would like to help a local child, please get in touch – you really can make a difference to a child, and the friendship benefits you as well as the child.”
Kelly Furness, the charity’s area coordinator for Rugby and Southam, said volunteering for just a couple of hours a week can make a huge difference.
She said: “We consider ourselves very lucky to have brilliant volunteers such as Jon here in the Rugby area. The work of all of our volunteers across Warwickshire is really appreciated and has a huge impact on a child or young person’s life.
Kelly Furness, the charity’s area coordinator for Rugby and Southam, said volunteering for just a couple of hours a week can make a huge difference.“The children and young people we support are referred to us by local services as they need someone to give them one-to-one attention.
“Whatever the reason for the referral, having some time away from home – where they sometimes live in difficult circumstances – really does improve the child’s self-esteem and wellbeing.
“The aim is to develop interests and confidence in the young person through outings and activities. Quite simple things like playing games, swimming, shopping or going to a show may suffice.
“Our volunteers enjoy the time they spend with the younger friends. They often get the opportunity to try new things, have fun and feel that they are really helping the child.
“They give a child time to have fun, and allow them to be a child again.”
Friendship Project volunteers – referred to as ‘older friends’ – come from all walks of life, from graduates to retirees, and no qualifications are needed.
Applicants must be over 18, be able to commit to the project for at least six months, and have access to a car.
Call Kelly Furness on 07415 399776, visit www.friendshipproject.co.uk or email [email protected] for more information.
