“Getting to know Scott has been a 12 out of 10 experience!”
Meet Paul, he has been a befriender with Ecas since 2014 and is still loving the experience. He first got in touch when he was looking to enjoy interacting with someone new, and have the satisfaction of being a befriender.
In his first match, Paul went above and beyond, meeting with someone with complex needs. They met for many years before his befriendee unfortunately passed away. Over that time, Paul developed his communication and support skills, which contributed to him now working part time in a support role.
Paul has been meeting his second befriendee, Scott, since late 2022. With some mobility difficulties and other health issues, Scott was looking to get to know someone new for more in depth conversations and friendship at home.
Scott is a passionate person and I really get an education when I go to see him! We talk about history, politics, music, football and all sorts. He often has something new to show me that he’s found for us to talk about. We make a coffee and get stuck in. It’s good fun!
Matched and supported by the Ecas Befriending team
Paul and Scott were matched by Ecas’ befriending team based on their mutual interests, compatible personalities and practical factors such as availability and travel distance.
Paul feels that getting to know Scott has been a 12 out of 10 experience:
It’s absolutely brilliant. As the weeks have gone on, I got to like him even more. He’s an easy guy to get on with, very likeable and the experience is never boring.
I really do feel that I’m achieving what I wanted from befriending. I never expected it to be as good as it is, so I’m really chuffed!
Both Paul and Scott have the support of the Ecas befriending team, with regular chances to talk through any issues and share feedback.
I know he’s enjoying it too; we’re always shaking hands at the end and he lets me know he’s looking forward to the next meeting. I really enjoy going to see him as well, and over time he’s become more confident and relaxed.
Interested in Befriending?
Live in Edinburgh and interested in being a Ecas Befriender?
Get in touch with Ecas today to find out more!
Speak with Sam on 07825 305 376
Email sam@ecas.scot
Visit Becoming an Befriender for more information.
Photo – Befriender Paul (right) speaks with Ecas Befriending Assistant, Gary (left) at a recent Ecas Volunteer Day