We regularly consult parents, children and befrienders about our work and how to improve it. A recent survey amongst parents of befriended children has revealed the deep impact that a Fun friendship can make, not just to a befriended child but to the whole family. Here are some of the quotes:

As a father on my own my son has learnt many things I could not have taught him like how to cook and organise his clothes and inviting friends around for tea.

My son always looks forward to seeing his befriender. They have gone camping together, to concerts; have done gardening, gone to the cinema and ice-skating. She has also supported us on lots of occasions in family crisis and at his school (Macbeth and poetry evenings). She has also helped us to go to parent’s evenings.

This service should definitely be available to all families who need it. It makes so much difference in such a soft and kind way.

When things at home are good having a befriender is a bonus. When things are bad it’s a lifeline.

Having a befriender has enabled us to be more open with each other which has led to a closeness we did not have before.

I suffer from mental health problems and having a befriender means that I get some time to relax.

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