"Building Connections and Confidence: The Work of Argyll and Bute Befrienders" by Arlene Colewell

9 January 2025

"In every community, young people face challenges that require more than just resources—they need relationships. Argyll and Bute Befrienders exists to meet this vital need, fostering nurturing, supportive connections for children and young people aged 6 to 18. Through the dedication of trained volunteers, we provide a lifeline for young people who need a little extra support. Here’s how we make a difference and how you can join us in changing lives." - Arlene Colewell

Our Mission: Empowering Young Lives

At Argyll and Bute Befrienders, our goal is simple yet transformative: to create and cultivate nurturing relationships for young people. A secure and supportive relationship can offer a child the stability they need to build confidence, learn new skills, and navigate life’s challenges. We work tirelessly to ensure every young person referred to us has the chance to thrive through one-to-one befriending relationships.

What Does a Befriender Do?

Volunteer Befrienders are adults in the community who dedicate time to supporting a young person. They act as a trusted companion, providing emotional and social encouragement tailored to the child’s needs. This might involve exploring new activities together, offering guidance, or simply being a dependable presence in their lives.

Each volunteer receives comprehensive training and ongoing support to equip them for this rewarding role. We also cover travel and other expenses to ensure volunteering is accessible to everyone. The impact of a Befriender’s time and care can be profound—not just for the young person, but for the volunteer as well.

Many of our volunteers describe befriending as a deeply fulfilling experience, full of moments of joy, growth, and shared achievement.

Why Befriending Matters

Young people often face social or emotional hurdles that can make everyday life more difficult. For some, these challenges stem from significant adversity, including family disruption, mental health struggles, or isolation. Having a Befriender to offer steady support can help them build resilience, develop self-esteem, and gain the confidence to pursue their goals.

By connecting young people with caring adults, we help them engage with their communities, discover their strengths, and envision a brighter future. In some cases, this relationship becomes a key turning point in their journey toward independence and success.

Partnering with Families and Communities

Argyll and Bute Befrienders collaborates closely with families, schools, and local agencies to ensure each young person gets the support they need. Together, we create a tailored plan to address their unique circumstances and aspirations.

We also work to raise awareness and funds to sustain and expand our services, ensuring more young people in Argyll and Bute can benefit from befriending relationships.

How You Can Get Involved

Become a Volunteer Befriender

If you’re passionate about supporting young people and want to make a meaningful impact, consider volunteering as a Befriender. You don’t need any special qualifications—just the willingness to listen, empathise, and share your time. We’ll provide all the training, support, and resources you need.

Support Our Mission

Even if volunteering isn’t for you, there are other ways to contribute. You can help us raise awareness in your community, organise or participate in fundraising events, or make a donation to support our work.

Spread the Word

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support Argyll and Bute Befrienders is by telling others about us. Share our mission with friends, colleagues, and local organisations. Your voice can help us reach more volunteers and young people in need.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The work of Argyll and Bute Befrienders is built on the belief that nurturing relationships is the cornerstone of personal growth and resilience. By volunteering, supporting, or simply spreading the word, you can help us bring hope, confidence, and connection to the lives of young people in our community.

To learn more about our work or discuss a potential referral, get in touch with us today. Together, let’s empower the next generation to reach their full potential.