NYY’s Buddy Network is a project that provides additional support for 14-19yr olds in North Yorkshire. The Buddy Network scheme can provide an enriching experience for both the Buddy and the young person. Life can be a lonely path for some young people and your time as a Buddy could make all the difference.
Read on for a greater insight into the scheme from NYY’s new Buddy Network Coordinator, Stef:
‘’What a great start to the role as Buddy Network Coordinator. There has been some wonderful feedback from a young person working on their goals, with the support from a trusted adult.
Ian has been a Buddy and an Independent Visitor with NYY since 2016. Ian was recently matched with a young person who had goals to continue to develop social skills and explore groups and interests.
As the relationship developed, it became apparent that the young person was interested in Rob Burrow CBE and the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association charity. Ian mentioned them doing a planned fundraising event, but the young person was not keen due to the crowds. So, Ian mentioned how they could do a walk, just the two of them and register it as an event with the MND Association. They did this and set up a just giving page. They completed the walk around The Stray in Harrogate one evening which raised £652. This was an amazing achievement as they thought £100 was an optimistic goal.
Ian tells me that apparently the young person hates having their photo taken, but wanted to mark this great accomplishment with a photo together. Ian feels this really represents the young person’s self-belief and sense of achievement.
I’d like to say well done and thank for sharing your hard work and achievements’’.
Volunteer to befriend a 14-19yr old for as little as one hour a week. Help make a difference in your community. For more information, please contact Stef Benson, Buddy Network Coordinator on 07398149496 [email protected]