A local infant school identified a child who needed our involvement. The family had previously been supported by Homestart following the parent’s divorce and separation. Mum had custody of four children and was struggling to give each the attention they needed. She was trying to get into full time employment and needed to attend appropriate training and this was putting additional pressure on the time she could spend with the children. There was no extended family support available. This particular child, then aged 7, was beginning to show short attention span, aggressive behaviour and was very insecure. His attendance at school was good but there was a lack of progress and his behaviour was deteriorating.
We had a male volunteer available, who met with the child and his mother. It was agreed to establish a friendship, and this has now continued for over two years. The child has shown a marked improvement in his behaviour, the Older Friend has helped him build a bike, and his school report reflects a big improvement. Mum has now completed a training course and has a full time job and the home environment is much better. Our volunteer has been able to give this child a positive male role model and has encouraged him to develop interests in normal activities a child of his age would enjoy. They go on outings, they both enjoy the cinema, but they also spend time chatting and sharing time together at the library or even cooking meals.
