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Volunteer Development Scotland Ltd. (also known as Volunteer Scotland).
Charity registered in Scotland SC013740 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland, No. SC106743. Our registered Office is Jubilee House, Forthside Way, Stirling. FK8 1QZ

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Befriender (One to one)

What is a One-to-one Child/Young Person Volunteer?
A Child/Young Person Volunteer is someone who makes a commitment to a child or young person facing significant challenges in their lives. This could include experiences of social isolation, disengagement from education, caring responsibilities at home and issues relating to physical and mental wellbeing.
As a Volunteer you will spend between 1-3 hours a week (the length of sessions being flexible) with a Child/Young Person doing activities that promote wellbeing, such as bowling, going for a walk or visiting the cinema. By engaging a Child/Young Person in these activities, you will help them develop confidence, resilience and communication skills, equipping them to lead a more fulfilled life.
Your volunteer relationship with a Child/Young Person may fluctuate depending on circumstance. You might find yourself acting as a Befriender (offering connection and companionship), a Mentor (supporting goal setting and achievement through sharing advice), and/or a Peer Mentor (considered a mix of both, using your lived experience and shared interests to support the Participant towards setting and achieving their goals).
Your sessions are supported and supervised by COVEY staff in line with COVEY policies and procedures.

Experience required

No Expertise,Youth / Childcare, Caring,Good Communicator,Good Listener,Open minded,Organised,Patient,Reliable / Dependable,Trustworthy,

Travel details

The opportunity takes place at multiple location across South Lanarkshire
Across South Lanarkshire

Travel expenses

All reasonable expenses incurred in the course of your volunteering reimbursed.

Dates

15 May - 15 July 2026

Support
Training details

Foundation Training for all COVEY Volunteers - 3 Sessions lasting 2.5hrs. Often in-person to engage with other new volunteers.

Taster available
Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

No Gender Restriction, - Full driving licence with access to a car for volunteering use


  • Regular availability of 1-3 hours a week (weekdays only)

  • PVG Disclosure check

Availability
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening

Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Find out more