Local residents are being urged to join a fantastic ‘buddies’ scheme, which is changing the lives of young people across North East Lincolnshire.
Buddies matches everyday people in the borough with children and youngsters who are being supported by the North East Lincolnshire Council’s care community, or care leavers. Volunteers then meet their buddy to enjoy different activities together; this offers new experiences for everyone involved.
Since its launch, there are 23 Buddies – and the council, pleased by the scheme’s success, is now looking for more. By volunteering your time once a month, there is an opportunity to make a huge difference in improving confidence and quality of life to those in our care, or who are just stepping away.
What you’ll get as a buddy –
- An activity allowance and mileage expenses
- A rewarding experience for yourself and your buddy
- Full training and development
- The chance to make a change
The council is looking for adults of all ages who would like to take part in this scheme. Those interested will be asked to specify hobbies or pastimes to ensure they are matched correctly.
If you are a compassionate and kind person, we invite you to join us in becoming a positive role model and to create a welcoming space for the person you are matched with.
Ann Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services, added her thoughts on how this has helped the children in care so far. She said: “We are grateful for all volunteers and anyone taking part in the buddies scheme, it has provided experiences that the young people may not have had before and it helps to make them feel valued.”
After completing a safe recruitment process, you will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check before finding a match. Once we have found you a friend, you are expected to meet up at least once a month and to become a consistent friendly face.
We ask that volunteers commit to 18 months, but you are welcome to stay onboard for as long as you wish.
For such a rewarding experience, you could truly change the way a young person experiences life and we all know how important the early years are for our development.
Sign up today by contacting us: [email protected] using the subject line ‘Buddy Scheme’.
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