Warwickshire children's charity continues to 'keep friendships blooming'

A Warwickshire charity that helps provide children with support is continuing its work.

The Friendship Project for Children’s volunteers are continuing to 'keep their friendship’s blooming' during the social distancing/isolation period.

The charity operates throughout Warwickshire with the primary aim of helping children in need of some extra support.

All children aged between six and 16 are referred to the charity through children’s social services and are then matched with an ‘Older Friend’ who takes them out and spends time with them for a few hours each week.

In the current situation when many people are in need of social contact and continuity, the charity said it is especially important that these friendships continue.

Cheryll Rawbone, chairman of the Friendship Project said: “We are encouraging our 'Older Friends' to maintain regular contact with their 'Younger Friend', using electronic means such as Facetime, Skype, email, or telephone.

"Additionally, we have asked that our volunteers take time to reassure their 'Younger Friend' and let them talk about their worries and share their own coping skills”.

Volunteers have been keeping in touch with their 'Younger Friends' via telephone, FaceTime and WhatsApp. As well as cards, letters (the 'old fashioned' excitement of having something personal delivered by the postman) and recording themselves reading books out loud.

Fiona Roche, area co-ordinator for the Warwick, Leamington and Kenilworth area, is keeping in touch with the families of the 'Younger Friends' by sending them information packs for the children and checking to see if they need any supplies during this difficult time.

One of the families the charity helps said: "It's great to see my daughter's volunteer maintaining their friendship during this time. Many thanks for keeping in touch with the family, it is appreciated."

Since the charity started in 1986 it has supported nearly 1,500 local children.

For more information on The Friendship Project go to: www.friendshipproject.co.uk or call 0845 838 2098.