Can you be a “friend”?

Nishi Mehta from “The Friendship Project for children” based in Leamington came to speak to Warwick Rotary Club. The Project was set up 40 years ago to provide support to vulnerable young people who need someone to give them time and attention. Nisha is a Trustee of the charity and also a volunteer. Members discovered that Michael Choker MBE it’s founder is actually a Leamington Rotarian.

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. Volunteers also enjoy spending time with their Younger Friend knowing that they are really making a difference to a child’s life.

The Project matches an Older Friend to a Younger Friend – a child between 6 & 16 referred by Social Services, or identified by the education authority, as needing support. Volunteers are carefully selected and are vetted, DBS checked trained and supported through their placement with expenses covering fuel and activity costs. Volunteers must be able to allocate 2-3 hours a week for at least 6 months and get the satisfaction of seeing children develop confidence and independence.

Over the years over 1,500 young people have been supported across Warwickshire– can you help with those who still looking for a friend?

Rotarian Laurie Day admired the projects work with “troubled families” and said many of our projects support children in Warwick. It seems to him such a shame that when people retire their skills are disregarded when they have so much experience they can share. Are there any retired teachers, parents or health workers who could spend some time to help a youngster find their feet in the world?

President Rachel Hinton expressed admiration for their work and presented Nisha with £200 towards the work of the Friendship Project for Children.

If you think that you could spare 2 or 3 hours every week to befriend a young person, or help with events or admin, please visit the website www.friendshipproject.co.uk or call 07516 527714