This International Women's Day #inspireinclusion by Volunteering with Girls in Care
Every year on International Women's Day, we celebrate the achievements of women and girls, advocating for their equal rights and opportunities. This year let's turn our attention to girls who face unique challenges and hold immense potential: girls in the care system.
These young women often experience a disrupted childhood, lacking the consistent support system important for their development. They need guidance, role models, and crucially, a good support system. This is where volunteering can be such a powerful tool, offering a chance to make a real difference to lives.
Why Support Girls in Care?
Statistics paint a sobering picture. According to government statistics, 83,840 children were looked after in England as of 31 March 2023, this is up 2% than the previous year. Among these, girls face specific challenges, including:
- Higher rates of emotional and behavioural problems
- Increased risk of abuse and neglect
- Lower academic achievement
- Greater difficulty transitioning to adulthood.
By giving your time and energy, you can provide crucial support in areas like:
- Building self-esteem and confidence
- Developing life skills
- Offering academic guidance and support
- Providing emotional stability and a safe space to talk
- Being a positive role model
Become a Volunteer: Making a Real Difference
At Changing Futures North East, we offer comprehensive training and support for volunteers, so you can be confident every step of the way in your volunteering journey.
Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Become a mentor: Develop a one-on-one relationship with a young woman, offering regular support, guidance, and encouragement. This can involve helping a young person set and reach their own goals, assisting with them planning for their life after care and becoming an important part of their support system.
- Become a Befriender: Children and young people in care sometimes just want someone to spend time with! As a befriender, you spend your time with a young person doing fun activities, such as going for walks, catching a film or a strong favourite of our young people, going to Nando’s!
Making a Difference, One Connection at a Time
By becoming a mentor or befriender, you can create a sense of security and belonging. Here are some of the lasting benefits for the young women you connect with:
- Improved academic performance and help raise aspirations.
- Increased self-esteem and confidence.
- Stronger social connections and support networks.
- Reduced risk of risky behaviours and involvement with the legal system.
- Greater chance of achieving their life goals.
This International Women's Day, take the steps to #inspireinclusion and build a brighter future by becoming a volunteer to empower a young woman in care. Your positive influence can make the world of difference. If you would like to be involved, get in touch with us via social media, at admin@changingfuturesne.co.uk or give our office a call on 01429 891444
