The life-changing impact of BBC Children in Need funding

Cyfannol Women’s Aid receives funding from BBC Children in Need to deliver a mentoring project for 5-16 year old boys in Torfaen, Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent who have experienced domestic abuse. Boys aged 5-11 are matched up with a volunteer mentor who meets with them once a week to provide positive role modelling and problem-free time away from difficulties and stress.

For one boy who accessed the mentoring project, this support proved truly life changing, helping him to move on from his early traumatic experiences and develop positive relationships.

As a result of him comforting himself through the domestic abuse he had witnessed, he often hid behind his mum and had extreme separation anxiety. His attendance and work in school had been significantly impacted.

He was matched with a one-to-one mentor for a 12-month period. After struggling with his separation anxiety at the beginning of the mentoring, he went on to build a strong rapport and trust with his mentor, enjoying activities such as walking, bike riding and swimming.

By the end of the mentoring period, he had shown improvement on many levels. His attendance and school work improved significantly and he blossomed into a happy, confident boy. His relationship with his mum also improved, as did his relationships with children of his own age and he now enjoys going out to play with his friends.

Being matched with a mentor at this point in his life has had a hugely positive impact on this young boy. We are only able to run this programme and make a difference in this way thanks to funding from BBC Children in Need and the dedication of our fantastic team of volunteer mentors.

If you would like to know more about the programme or becoming a volunteer, please contact us on 01873 859011 or email jay.ryan@cyfannol.org.uk

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