The Friendship Project is a Warwickshire-wide charity that matches children and young people (who are in need, for a variety of reasons) with volunteers, for friendship and fun. The child may be caring for a sick parent or be limited to where they can go on holiday because of a disabled sibling or other family member. For some children, even playing in the park or going to the cinema are a rare treat. Having some time out from often difficult home situations really does improve the child’s self-esteem and self-worth. Our volunteers report that they too enjoy spending time with their Younger Friend knowing that they are really making a difference to a child’s life.
We recruit volunteers through advertising and promotion using a variety of means including social media, website, newspapers, newsletters, volunteering and community events and community advertising. Marketing and Communications plans are made yearly and are completed and reviewed by the Operations Team and Trustees.
Volunteers to be Older Friends must be over 18, have a 2-3 hours free time to spend with a child or young person on a regular basis and have a car and be able to drive. Volunteers ideally should live in Coventry or Warwickshire, or within a short travelling distance. These aspects are carefully considered before acceptance or rejection of the volunteer. We provide guidance, support and cover certain expenses.
