Warwickshire-based children's charity appealing for residents from in and around Leamington to join its team of volunteers

A Warwickshire-based charity is appealing for residents from in and around Leamington to join its team of volunteers.

The Friendship Project matches children in need of extra support with volunteers for friendship and fun - helping them to boost their confidence and self-esteem.

The charity will celebrate its 35th anniversary next year, and 2020 has been one of the most challenging years the charity has seen.

The charity says that more young people in Warwickshire need the Friendship Project more than ever before – and this means the charity needs more volunteers to reach those children who need extra support.

Volunteering with the Friendship Project takes between two to three hours per week but makes such a difference.

Those who want to volunteer need to be 18 and above, be able to drive and be able to commit to a minimum of six months. All training will also be provided.

A spokesperson from the Friendship Project said: "You’ll receive all the guidance you need so you and your friend can make the most of your time together, and you don’t even have to spend a penny.

"Friendship is a two-way street, and as many adults have felt lonely and isolated during the pandemic, the Friendship Project offers volunteers the chance to gain a friend, too.

"At the same time as helping a local charity and changing a child’s life, you can do something that will benefit your mental health, enjoy new experiences and get out of your comfort zone.

"Your meet-up each week could be as simple as a walk in the park or baking cookies in your kitchen, or it could be as extreme as Go Ape, or even den-building with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust.

"The world is your oyster when it comes to what Older Friends and Younger Friends get up to with the Friendship Project."

Since 1986, the charity has helped more than 1,500 children, and has been recognised many times for the invaluable work it does, most recently with a Queen’s Award in February 2020.

The Friendship Project is currently supporting 70 children, but they could be helping more, as there is a waiting list.

For those who are unable to give their time to help the Friendship Project, there are other ways to help – the charity is always in need of donations, people can get involved with fundraising, putting up posters, offering a valuable skill, or even spreading the word about the charity on social media.

It all helps, and it’s all very much appreciated.

If anyone would like to offer their time, a donation or their services, or to find out more about the Friendship Project email: [email protected] or call 0845 8382098.