The JUMP befriending project for separated young refugees.
“I can talk to Sara about stuff I don’t talk to other people. We have become
really good friends.” Tian
“It’s inspiring and educating for me to see Tian’s capacity,
resilience and ambitions. I’ve learnt stuff I have no idea about.” Sara
Who is JUMP for?
JUMP is for some of the 3000 young asylum seekers who arrive
alone in the UK every year. They have fled conflict or human rights
abuses in countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia and Congo. In
London, some are placed in foster families, but those older than 16
usually have no adult carer, and are living alone and isolated.
What does befriending involve?
Befrienders are volunteers who meet up with a young refugee once a
fortnight for at least a year.
Befriending is about getting to know
a young person and developing a non-judgemental, non-directive
friendship. What the pairs actually do depends on both people’s
interests. Some meet regularly for a drink or a meal. Some go on
regular trips around London. Others do practical things like
homework tuition or help navigate UK bureaucracy (registering for
GPs, filling in benefits forms). We give each pair a small budget
which they plan how to use together.
What do young people get out of JUMP?
JUMP’s young people say that they can talk to their befrienders
about “the important things in life”. Befriending can help them to
“understand the system” and motivates them achieve specific goals or
just “be more active”.
What do volunteers get out of JUMP?
JUMPs befrienders say that they have learnt how “inspirational and
courageous” young refugees can be. They have also learnt about the
myriad challenges that the young people face in London. Many have
developed life-long friendships. As Susannah says, “We hit it off
immediately, we’ve just become friends”.
Can I volunteer as a befriender?
Anyone from any background, and who is over 21, can apply to be a
befriender. We welcome applications from younger adults and
especially from men, since most separated young refugees are male.
For a detailed role description,
click here.
The application process involves an informal chat about your
experiences and interests, a CRB check, and an 8-hour training
programme. Once you’ve started, you’ll receive regular support from
the Project Coordinator and from other volunteers.
For more information, contact Simon on 020 8455 0896 or email
simon@jcore.org.uk
