For over 25 years, the North Lanarkshire Befriending Project has supported young carers across the area. We work with young people who provide care at home, helping them access the time, space and support they need.

Trained volunteer befrienders are matched one-to-one with a young person, offering consistent emotional, social and practical support. Together, they spend time in the community, building trust and confidence through shared activities.

This support helps young carers feel less isolated and more able to cope. It creates space for them to enjoy being young, while building resilience, wellbeing and a stronger sense of connection.

Making a real difference

Every friendship has its own story, and even small moments can have a lasting impact.

Through the support of their volunteer befriender:

• One young carer went ice skating for the very first time, describing it as the “best time ever” and looking forward to going again.
• One young carer was supported to choose and buy a Mother’s Day gift for their mum, giving them the opportunity to do something special for someone they care for every day.
• Another young carer has developed the confidence and independence to travel safely using buses and taxis.

Our young carers have also enjoyed trying new activities and exploring new places, including travelling by train to Edinburgh, visiting local attractions, attending motorcycle shows, going bowling, enjoying soft play sessions and taking shopping trips. These experiences help young carers build confidence, develop independence, make positive memories and simply enjoy being children and young people.

Every outing, conversation and shared experience helps a young carer feel more connected, more confident and less isolated. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteer befrienders, we continue to create meaningful friendships that have a lasting impact on the lives of young carers and their families.