Befriending is a fantastic and rewarding way to make a real difference to the life of a young person. Befrienders offer face-to-face support to a young person aged 8 to 18, with Cystic Fibrosis. People living with this condition have a demanding daily treatment regime at home and often experience limitations that affect their confidence and ability to cope with the challenges of everyday living. They may also be socially isolated. A befriender will meet with the young person for around 3 hours every 1 to 2 weeks, away from the home environment, to build a trusting relationship.
About The Butterfly Trust
Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, life limiting genetically inherited condition with 1 in 25 people carrying the faulty gene that causes the condition. There is currently no cure for Cystic Fibrosis. The Butterfly Trust is the leading provider of social support to the Cystic Fibrosis community of Scotland. We were founded in 2002 to provide face to face services for people with Cystic Fibrosis and their families. Our aim is that people living with Cystic Fibrosis will have access to the support they need to ensure they can benefit from optimum homecare and enjoy the best quality of life in the community.
Experience Required
Reliability and adherence to confidentiality are essential. Desirable qualities required include good listening skills, patience and an adaptable attitude. Training and support is provided.
Training Details
One day induction event usually held on a Saturday covering all aspects of the condition, the Butterfly Trust's work, client contact, child protection awareness etc..
Flexibility & Commitment
Flexible
2-3 hours every 1-2 weeks, depending on the progress of the relationship.
Location/Travel Details
You will be matched with a young person within a reasonable travelling distance. Befrienders MUST have held a full driving licence for at least 2 years and have the use of a smoke free car. A minimum commitment of 1 year is needed to ensure the goals can be met. A befriending session might simply be an opportunity to chat, eg over a snack or coffee, or may involve a specific activity such as sport or creative/arts. This will allow the young person space and a suitable environment to explore their feelings, discuss their fears, develop life skills and grow in the areas where they may be struggling. Transport and other expenses are repayed.
Expenses
Befrienders submit a monthly report sheet outlining progress with young person and an expenses claim form. Expenses are usually reimbursed via BACS.
enquire