Befriend a Child is issuing an urgent appeal for more male volunteers to step forward and become positive role models for boys, aged 6-15 years old, currently waiting for support.
Through its long-established befriending and mentoring programmes, the charity provides vital 1:1 relationships for local children and young people facing significant challenges, including low self-esteem, social isolation, abuse and neglect and parental mental health difficulties.
Across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, the demand for male volunteer befrienders has reached a critical point. Many boys on the waiting list have been waiting an average of six to eight months for the opportunity to be matched with a trusted male figure, someone who can provide consistency, encouragement and a safe space to simply be themselves.
Befriend a Child’s befriending programme matches trained volunteers with children and young people for regular outings and activities, helping them build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. For just two hours, twice a month, volunteers can make a profound and lasting difference in a child’s life. Right now, however, too many young boys are lacking a positive male role model.
Susanne McMenemy, Head of Operations at Befriend a Child, said,
“We are seeing more and more young boys who are in desperate need of a consistent, positive male role model as they do not have a male figure in their lives they can rely on, trust, or look up to. A befriender can become that person, and be someone who listens, encourages, and shows them what healthy, supportive relationships look like. The impact of that connection can be truly life-changing. We urgently need more men to come forward and help us support the young boys on our waiting list, showing them more of what life has to offer and being that consistent male figure who shows up for them”.
For many of the children supported by the charity, life can feel uncertain and overwhelming. A befriender offers more than just time, they offer stability, fun and hope. Whether it’s going for a walk, playing football, or simply talking, these small, consistent moments help build trust and create positive childhood experiences that every young person deserves.
Volunteers do not need any special qualifications, just compassion, reliability and a willingness to give a small amount of time each month. Full training and ongoing support are provided by Befriend a Child’s experienced staff team.
The charity is encouraging men from all walks of life to consider volunteering and become the role model a young boy has been waiting for. Interested or want to learn more? Please follow the link below or reach out to Befriending Manager, Nicola, at volunteer@befriendachild.org.uk today!
Visit the Befriend a Child website here - https://www.befriendachild.org.uk/how-we-help/befriending/