Ayrshire befriending charity benefits from UKSE funding

A South Ayrshire befriending charity has welcomed more than ￡2,000 in funding from UKSE , a subsidiary of Tata Steel , to support its delivery of vital services to young people in the area.

Established in 1996, Bfriend supports young people in South Ayrshire who are experiencing social isolation or emotional difficulties by matching them with volunteers who offer their time to build meaningful relationships and confidence. This helps to create social opportunities that aid youngsters in overcoming social isolation and adversity.

UKSE has provided Bfriend with ￡2,387 of funding that will be used to support a wide range of activities including day trips, as well allow the charity to welcome new volunteers and expand its services.

In the 28 years the charity has been operating, it’s estimated to have supported more than 1,000 young people through its vital community work. Young people who are experiencing social isolation may be referred to the service through education centres, social work support, and other third-sector organisations.

Lorna Mitchell, Project Coordinator at Bfriend, said:

“Bfriend offers young people in South Ayrshire the opportunity to form real, lasting relationships with volunteers who support their social and emotional development while building their confidence.

“We’re proud to offer this vital service and are grateful to UKSE for their financial support, which will allow us to offer young people the opportunity to receive the gift of someone’s time and attention, which is incredibly powerful and valuable to them.”

Staff at Bfriend—which was previously known as the South Ayrshire Befriending Service—carefully match young people with volunteers for a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years.

Additionally, the charity offers young people who use the service to join its Youth Board, which comprises 6 youngsters who are previous service users. The board helps to steer the charity’s direction, including coordinating the activity calendar.

Scott Webb , Regional Manager at UKSE Scotland, said:

“The impact that Bfriend has on the wellbeing of young people while promoting greater social inclusion is incredibly important. We look forward to seeing how this funding can aid them in offering emotional and practical support.”

Learn more about Bfriend here: https://www.bfriend.org.uk/

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