Space’s Youth Befriending service offers one-to-one support to young people aged five to 16 across Edinburgh affected by harms from substance use and gambling within the family.

Befriending helps reduce isolation and loneliness and strengthens emotional and physical well-being, which fosters a greater sense of self-worth and belonging.

Our volunteers help young people build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem whilst lowers feelings of social anxiety as they explore new interests, experiences, and activities.

Space for Youth Befriending provides children and young people aged five to 16, living citywide in Edinburgh, with a volunteer befriender who, once a week for two to three hours, supports and encourages them to explore new activities and find fresh interests and hobbies, with a view to engaging in local youth provision.

Befriending matches are based on shared interests and entirely person-led; the volunteer helps their young befriendee build confidence and self-esteem, improve social skills, and make friends outwith their peer group through an individualised programme.

Befriending can make a real difference to a young person’s life, helping them access opportunities they may not otherwise have had.