The project was established in 2002 as a direct result of anti-social behaviour of young people in the area who were not group ready, not accessing any other service, and in need of one-to-one support. The project  provides a befriending service within the South West of Edinburgh for 40 young people aged  5-16 year old who are affected by their parental substance misuse.

At present the current waiting time for a volunteer befriender is approximately 6-9 months. Young people who are referred to the befriending project have been referred by social worker, teacher, health professionals, housing department, or other voluntary organisations.

Parental substance misuse can impact and effect young people in many ways such as:

Being bullied
Lack of supportive adults within the family
Concern for the young person’s physical, emotional, educational or social welfare
Not coping within the school setting
Becoming a Young Carer
Isolation
Abuse or neglect

Our service is open Monday to Thursday 9.30 am - 8.30 pm and Friday 9am to 4pm.

Activities are in the Broomhouse Centre or to places of interest.
This service covers West and South West Edinburgh.