Our key purpose is that young people are supported on their life journey through strong and supportive befriending relationships - seeing them better equipped to reach their potential.
We invite you to become involved in making a difference in the lives of vulnerable young people. Find out more about being a Befriender in the various projects we run, joining up as a Friend of COVEY or in making a donation.
"there were so many benefits to befriending... turned things around..."
"they were very appreciative of the support offered..."
"when I'm at school and I know Louise (befriender) is coming at night, the day just flies past!"
"it was inspirational to watch everyone interact and see the group gel..."
Being open and authentic provides a platform for the young people to develop in this area; a parent said, "there were so many benefits to befriending - helped change my boy, turned things around so that he can better communicate" and a befriender about her young person; "she had a lot more confidence in the end and would tell me stuff without me asking".
In one of our longer term befriending relationships, when a young person's mum was in hospital gravely ill, the befriender provided support to the young person, taking them to the hospital and providing emotional support. Speaking to the family afterwards they were very appreciative of the support offered.
One young person, facing a lot of issues at home due to a violent and abusive sibling has had a befriender for two years. He stated during a review – "when I'm at school and I know Louise (befriender) is coming at night the day just flies past!"
Three older young people and a befriender attended an event in Edinburgh celebrating mentoring and befriending. "It was inspirational to watch everyone interact and see the group gel. These were young people who in the past have struggled to make friendships and meet new people and they were at ease talking not only to each other but to others at the event about their experience of COVEY" staff member.
COVEY celebrates 20 years in supporting young people in South Lanarkshire.
