Supporting teenage boys

Christian charity ‘Safe Families for Children’ is looking for men who would be willing to give a little of their time as a role model to a young person.

Safe Families’ worker Helen Hoarle shares the story of one teenager: ‘Aaron is a teenager who has been through some difficult times. When we met his mum Sarah, she was worried about him as he struggles with anxious feelings. He also has medical and additional needs which affected his confidence with peers and his ability to relate positively to his family. Safe Families arranged for Aaron to meet Dave, whom we felt would be a great role model. When they met, Aaron was quite nervous, and Dave was told by Aaron’s mum that ‘if he didn’t take to someone straight away, it probably wouldn’t work.’

However, Dave has found that they ‘hit it off really well… something just clicked.’ Dave met with Aaron every couple of weeks, encouraging him in new activities, which bolstered Aaron’s confidence and resilience. They met for walks, meals and activities like the cinema and mini golf. Dave encouraged Aaron to try new things like photography and gardening. Whilst enjoying these activities, Dave gave Aaron time to talk, to form and express his opinions, and this has helped Aaron to build his independence and his ability to articulate his ideas.

Both Dave and Aaron say how much enjoy each other’s company – they both ‘have a laugh’ and the support is not one-sided, as Aaron has also offered Dave advice on fashion and Netflix! Dave said it has been rewarding and a pleasure to offer friendship to Aaron who now has a much better relationship with his family, is more outgoing and self-assured as he confidently takes his next steps after securing a place at college. Aaron and his mum Sarah explained that meeting Dave was a real turning point. Dave has been a great role model, helping Aaron make good choices about his friendships and his future. They can’t speak highly enough of Dave and the support he has given to the family.

Safe Families for Children needs men in the Black Country and Birmingham who are willing to be a male role model to a young person, or a friend to a dad going through a tough time. If you want to know more, contact Helen at THIS ADDRESS, or on 07387 417210. Read more about the work of Safe Families HERE. ‘Safe Families for Children UK’ is a Registered Charity in England and Wales No. 1150405 and Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC048207, and Company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England and Wales No. 08134971. The Registered Office is 4 Diamond Court, Kingston Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 2EN.