PRESS RELEASE: Start the summer with a new volunteering role

Friends of the Family is recruiting now for new volunteers who would like to start befriending a local child this summer. The charity’s 5s to 13s Befriending Service will be running its next two-day training course in June. Men and women, over the age of 23, who enjoy spending time with children and would like to make a positive difference to a child’s life are encouraged to apply.

The two-day training course will equip volunteers with all the skills and knowledge needed to befriend a child who is facing difficult and challenging circumstances. Befrienders offer support and friendship to the child and the child’s family for two hours a week for a period of 12 months.

In addition to the initial training course, volunteers receive paid travel expenses, on-going training opportunities, weekly supervision and the chance to meet other volunteers at regular get-togethers.

Sam Hunt, 5s to 13s Befriending Manager, said: “The summer months are the perfect time to start volunteering as there are so many activities that befrienders can enjoy with the child they are supporting. Whether it’s taking the child to their local park, playing a game indoors, helping with homework or being a listening ear, befrienders can have a huge impact on the child’s life. I’d encourage anyone who is considering volunteering to contact us to find out more about this rewarding role and our forthcoming training course.”

For further information, email volunteer@fotfwinchester.org, go to www.fotfwinchester.org or call Lisa Travers on 01962 864466.

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