Mentoring & Befriending

What is mentoring?

‘A one to one, non-judgmental relationship in which an individual voluntarily gives time to support and encourage another.  This relationship is typically developed at a time of transition in the mentee’s life and lasts for a significant and sustained period of time’.

What is befriending?

'Befriending is a process whereby two people come together with the aim of establishing an informal and social relationship.  Befriending can take place in either a 'formal' context, in which activity is initiated and/or supported by an organisation, or informally, with the individual volunteering independently of any organisation, for example, visiting a neighbour.  Ideally the relationship is non-judgmental, mutual, purposeful, and there is a commitment over time'.

Our aim is to offer support for individuals wanting to develop their life skills and enhance recovery.  Often when you have an eating disorder you may find your life is dominated by feelings and thoughts of your illness, mentoring can help you to reclaim parts of your life and improve your capacity to recover.

How might having a mentor/befriender help you?

  • Provide a space to talk in confidence.

  • Assist you in forming personal goals.

  • Supporting you in taking steps to reach goals.

  • By providing a friendly face to talk to.

  • A self-help based way of building self-esteem.

  • Discovering new hobbies and interests.

  • Reduce isolation.

How does it work?

The support will be geared to your needs as an individual.  This could include any aspect of your life which has been problematic such as socialising, meeting new people, developing new hobbies and interests.

You will be matched with a trained volunteer mentor/befriender .

Mentoring - the focus will be developing and working towards personal goals and outcomes.

Befriending - the focus will be around if you are feeling isolated, to meet with a befriender to look at what's on going for you and be a source of support.

The length of time for the mentoring/befriending depends on your needs.

Mentors will commit to weekly/fortnightly meetings.