Bright Futures UK
About Bright Futures UK
Our Befriending Service is designed to provide young people who have taken time out of education due to illness with a friendly, understanding companion who can offer emotional and social support. Our volunteer befrienders are there to listen, chat, and help young people regain confidence in their journey back into education. Whether it’s through shared interests, casual conversations, or simply being a consistent presence, our befrienders play a crucial role in reducing feelings of isolation and helping young people feel more connected to the world around them. This service is flexible, fully remote, and built around the needs of each young person.
Carnegie Street, London, England, N1 9QW
Service Eligibility
Age: The service supports children and young people from 5 to 24 years old.
Condition: We welcome individuals who have experienced a disruption in their education because of physical illnesses or mental health challenges.
Geography: UK-wide services.
Exclusions: Currently, we are unable to support those who fall outside the age range, those without a medical (physical or mental) diagnosis, are terminally ill, or individuals whose needs require highly specialized or immediate crisis intervention.
Information for Volunteers
As a Befriending Volunteer, you will play a key role in:
Building a supportive, friendly, and trusting relationship;
Being a friendly online presence;
Understanding a young persons’ befriending needs, interests, and challenges to provide tailored support.
Time Commitments :
We ask for a commitment of 1 hour per week
You can choose a time that works best for both you and your young person, with sessions taking place online.
Key Qualities We’re Looking For:
Are patient, empathetic, and non-judgmental, with a genuine desire to help and support young people.
More InformationAge Groups
Children (0-18), Young People (18-25)Themes
Mental Health, Special Health Condition, Children and Young PeopleRegions
Country: National
Other Information
Type of Befriending: Distance befriending including telephone, video call, letter writing or other means
Who can refer: Self Referrals Accepted, Friends & Family Referrals Accepted, Professional Referrals Accepted