ParentSpace
Befriending with ParentSpaceAbout ParentSpace
Parenting is the hardest job and at ParentSpace we aren’t afraid to admit it! Together we are gathering a network of support and shared knowledge that can be more powerful than anything. ParentSpace offer courses on particular aspects of parenting, 1:1 support and drop in sessions across the Scottish Borders as well as our befriending service. If you are in need of someone to share your parenting story with, a buddy at the play park or cafe, or a listening ear for whatever reason, our befrienders can help be there for you on your parenting journey. You can refer yourself or someone else through our website www.parentspace.org.uk befriending-service
ParentSpace, Langtongate, Duns, Berwickshire
Service Eligibility
Information for Volunteers
ParentSpace Befriending ServiceJust as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe it takes a village to raise a parent. ParentSpace’s befriending service offers 1:1 and group befriending across the Scottish Borders as part of our responsive programme of support for parents. We would be delighted if you would join us! We are looking for Parents whatever the age of your children, your experience is valuable. Borderers You could travel easily to meet with another Borders parent. Passion you enjoy helping others and being with people. A couple of hours of your time You could commit a couple of hours regularly to the befriending relationship over the next year. This includes travel, meeting up and writing brief, confidential notes on our secure webpage.We are offering Training. We are planning to use a mix of online training sessions and one half day face to face session. Twelve hours on all aspects of the role, such as active listening, confidentiality, parental wellbeing and mental health, as well as looking after our own wellbeing as befrienders, our boundaries and general safeguarding. Flexibility Once you are matched with a parent near you, then you can arrange to meet for a chat, go for a walk, have a coffee or whatever suits you both. This can be once a week, once a month or however regularly is right for the befriending relationship. Community Your supervisor will be in regular contact, our friendly ParentSpace team are there to support you and there is the chance to meet other likeminded befrienders and volunteers should you wish.Please get in touch with jess@parentspace.org.uk if you are interested in training as a befriender.TestimonialI started my training with ParentSpace last autumn and was matched with a parent by December. I honestly wasn’t expecting to meet so many lovely people. The training was thoughtful and thorough. Karen and Julie were so encouraging and naturally the other trainees were friendly! I was relieved that I didn’t have to have all the answers or be a perfect parent myself; my own struggles have shown me the difference this kind of support can make and they also make it easier to form a connection. The support from my supervisor and the ParentSpace team means I never feel isolated and has helped me build my confidence. Personally I look forward to the befriending sessions and have had a lot of fun since I joined up.