A Young Carer is someone up to the age of 18 who provides unpaid support to a relative, friend or neighbour who due to illness or disability cannot manage to live independently without the carer's help. Responsibilities may include practical support such as personal care, cooking, housework, or emotional support.

Aberdeen Young Carers are looking for volunteers to spend some quality time with a child or young person between the ages of 5-18 on a regular basis, getting to know them, and building up a positive relationship by being reliable and non-judgemental when listening to them.

A befriender volunteer will support the Young Carer to enjoy activities and experiences within the Aberdeen community to reduce isolation, and promoting self-esteem and confidence. This is a flexible opportunity and you can commit to meeting with a Young Carer for a few hours on a fortnightly or monthly basis depending on what time you have available. This would take place out with school hours, predominately over evenings or weekends.

To be a befriender volunteer we ask for a minimum time commitment of six months, so that the child or young person benefits from consistent visits and has time to build a professional relationship with the volunteer. To apply, please visit: https://volunteer.barnardos.org.uk/opportunities/16050-befriender-aberdeen-young-carers-2020-11-24 or contact the Volunteer Coordinator below: Andrew McGettigan E-Mail: andrew.mcgettigan@barnardos.org.uk Phone: 07724287057