Does FUN make a difference to children?
This is what parents have to say...

"Katie is a lot more confident, more able to express feelings, to make decisions, have interests and hobbies. She also has a better attitude towards school and is more caring towards me" Parent of Katie aged 14 matched with Laura for 2 years

"Luke has calmed down - he's not so aggressive. He doesn't lash out so much... he knows he's safe with Nick." Parent of Luke aged 15 matched with Nick for 5 years

"Tessa has learnt to speak up for herself - she's a lot more confident - and this has been noticed at school. She is very caring towards others"
Parent of Tessa aged 13 matched with Susan for 4 years

"Ricky smiles and laughs more. He has more confidence. He has a more positive view of school. He is very knowledgeable; he's learnt a lot from Alison about a range of subjects, particularly animals and cars."
Ricky aged 8 matched with Alison for 2 years.

"Sonia needs to feel people like her but her need to control often has the opposite effect. Lisa has proved to Sonia that she likes her - but she doesn't take too much nonsense!" Parent of Sonia aged 9 matched with Lisa for 2 years

Is the length of the friendship important?

"Yes, Sarah can't remember not having Claire in her life. She knows she's important to and valued by Claire and has been for a very long time. Sarah respects and loves her and this has increased over the years." Parent of Sarah aged 12 matched for 7 years

"Yes, because the more time they spend together the more time they have to get to know each other. I believe most little girls always have something they don't tell mum, but will talk about to a big friend." Parent of 14 year old Amy matched for 4 years

"Steve is a very important part of our family. Josh has learnt trust and has also calmed down. He loves spending time with Steve on a one to one basis. Steve is always there if Josh needs him. He is GREAT."
Parent of 15 year old Josh matched with Steve for 5 years

"Yes - I never expected it to last so long - it's fantastic"
Parent of Zoe matched for 10 years

"Yes, Aaron is not the most trusting of children, it takes quite some time for anybody to get close to him, mentally or physically. Once he finally trusts someone he will let go and be more himself."
Aaron aged 9 matched with Karen for 3 years