The Befriending service was established in response to a need among ex-residents of Back Lane Hostel to ease the change from supported accommodation to independent living. At the heart of the program, we are committed to preventing homelessness and transforming lives, starting with empowering individuals to take responsibility for their own journeys. The befriending service is always developing to meet the needs of Depaul service users. The programme offers a variety of social activities and interventions helping participants to reach their potential and strengthening their connection to their peers and their community.
Our second group targets current residents of Back Lane Hostel to re-establish a link to their community and prepare them for independent living.Trained volunteers engage with groups of residents for weekly activities and outings. The connections made through these activities carry on with the participants into independent living creating a continuity of care.
We have now expanded our reach to young adults aged 18–25 living in Depaul services. This expansion is designed to encourage social integration and inspire young residents to explore interests and hobbies. The initiative provides residents with a regular opportunity to socialize and engage with staff, volunteers, and each other. By fostering inclusion, the program helps combat the stigmatization and marginalization often faced by homeless youth and promotes a sense of belonging, boosts self-esteem, and encourages personal growth.
Once a service user is referred to the program by Back Lane staff they are matched with a Befriending volunteer. Through the support of dedicated volunteers, participants are encouraged to re-engage with local communities and establish supportive relationships with their peer group.
As well as meeting with their befriender in the community regularly, the programme organises monthly group events which encourage peer support. In line with our participant lead approach, a social committee made up of participants is held quarterly, where possible events are discussed.
The hostel based programes benefit not only from regular group events but also a weekly social club to encourage engagement.
The service operates from our Back Lane service in Dublin 8.
The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
Referrals are only accepted through our Back Lane Hostel.
