Friends United Network - Befriending - Vulnerable young people - London

About the project

Befriender and befriendee - FUN
FUN provides long term, sustained and reliable adult support for children from low income or single parent families in North London. Befrienders spend 3–4 hours per week with a child over a minimum of two years with many relationships lasting longer. Befriender and befriendee enjoy social activities together but it is the stability and support provided that is key. FUN is an APS accredited project and holds the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The relationship

Paul was just nine when he was referred to Friends United Network. He was living with his grandmother and two step brothers and would display serious behavioural problems. He had never known his real father and his mother was often in prison.

Paul was matched with Sarah, a young lawyer from a large family who is fond of children. Their befriending relationship has continued for more than seven years and has transformed Paul as a boy.

The two go ice skating together, swimming, visit museums and the theatre. Paul has taken up the opportunity to do work experience and has been placed with his local MP Jeremy Corbyn and with Sarah’s law practice.

His behaviour at home has changed “beyond recognition.” Paul has been taking AS levels and aspires to going to Oxford University.

Sarah and Paul remain close friends but meet up less regularly.  Sarah is about to become a mum herself and Paul has developed his own group of friends in sixth form.

Paul says:
“Sarah is smart, a good role model but not too strict.. “I see her as an adult but also as one of my mates. I get on so well with her and her partner. They give me a different perspective on life.”

Sarah says:
“Initially I was concerned that I might not know enough about boys’ subjects.  There was a brief hiatus because I couldn’t talk about football for instance. “You don’t automatically relate to someone on a social level and grapple for common subjects, which we always had in the end because Paul is very interested in world affairs. “Being friends with a young person has made me more patient, kept me in touch with younger people and let me know how schools have changed".

Impact of relationship

Paul described the relationship with Sarah as having improved his self-confidence, giving him a different perspective on life.  He said: “Someone outside the family to talk to, someone to encourage and support education and other interests.”

For Sarah the time spent with Paul gave her the opportunity to keep in touch with young people, gave her a different perspective on life, increased patience and a better understanding of young people.

Project details

Name: Friends United Network
Location: London
Contact: Richard Turner
Tel: 0207 485 0900