befriending - from age 9

Befriending involves assigning selected pupil volunteers to ‘be with’ or ‘befriend’ peers

whom teachers have referred. Befrienders:

• need friendly personal qualities
• give support with emotional and social problems - newness to a school, difficulty making friends, upset at separation or loss, being bullied or socially excluded
• run after-school clubs offering companionship and activities to peers who would otherwise be miserable and alone
• may share a common difficulty - for example bereavement - perhaps setting up a support group

The befriended feel more positive about themselves having had someone to talk to about their problems. Befrienders feel more confident and value other people more. The school becomes safer and more caring as relationships improve generally. Befrienders need training in active listening, assertiveness and leadership. Educational psychologists, counsellors and PSHE advisers can help.

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